Homeowners are often faced with the decision of choosing between a storage tank water heater or tankless hot water heaters. Both have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs. If you’re struggling to decide which system is right for your needs, this article will explore the pros and cons of both types of water heaters, focusing on factors such as cost, energy efficiency, lifespan and installation requirements.
Storage Tank Hot Water Heaters
Tank hot water heaters, also known as storage tank heaters, are the most conventional type of water heater most people will be familiar with. They work by storing and heating a large amount of water in a tank, which is then available for use when needed.
Pros of Storage Tank Hot Water Heaters
One of the main advantages of storage tank hot water heaters is their ability to provide a large amount of hot water at once. This makes them ideal for households with high hot water usage. They also typically have a lower upfront cost compared to tankless heaters, making them a more affordable option for many homeowners. If cost is a concern, a storage tank heater may be the best option, although this may mean that you’ll miss out on the long-term cost saving benefits of installing a more energy efficient appliance.
Cons of Tank Hot Water Heaters
On the downside, tank hot water heaters can be less energy-efficient than their tankless counterparts. This is because they need to constantly heat the water in the tank to keep it at the desired temperature, leading to energy wastage from an effect known as storage heat loss. They also take up more space and have a shorter lifespan compared to tankless heaters.
Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters, tankless hot water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit where it’s heated instantly.
Pros of Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Tankless hot water heaters are highly energy efficient, as they only heat water when it’s needed, reducing energy wastage. They’re also compact in size, making them ideal for homes with limited outdoor space. These types of systems generally have a longer lifespan and can provide a continuous supply of hot water, which is a major advantage for larger households where there can be high demand for hot water during select periods of the day.
Cons of Tankless Hot Water Heaters
The main drawback of tankless hot water heaters is their higher upfront cost, which includes the unit itself and the installation cost. They also generally have a lower flow rate compared to tank heaters, which means they might not be able to supply enough hot water for simultaneous use in larger households.
Final Thoughts
Both tank and tankless hot water heaters have their own unique set of benefits and limitations. Your choice between the two will ultimately depend on your budget, your household’s hot water usage, your available space and your energy efficiency goals. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each option, you can make a decision that best suits your specific needs.
