Making the decision between a traditional water heater with a storage tank or a newer, tankless water heater is a decision you could face at some point. After all, water heaters are the unsung heroes for a dependable source of hot water. Because your plumbing fixtures and home appliances count on this hot water, it’s always crucial to carefully compare your options.

This handy guide from the local experts at Lakeside Heating & Air lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the differences in their design in addition to some benefits and drawbacks of each kind. These valuable insights will ensure you can make an informed choice that meets your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve decided, give us a call for professional tank water heater installation.

Storage Tank Water Heaters: A Time-Tested Favorite

Let's examine conventional storage tank water heaters first. That ample storage tank is the key feature here, storing an abundant supply of water that’s always heated. The moment you need hot water, a tank water heater can provide it.

Pros:

  • More Affordable Setup: Tank water heaters typically have lower up-front installation costs, thanks to their simpler design.
  • Streamlined Maintenance Needs: This simpler design also means less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Continuous Energy Use: Tank water heaters must keep water constantly heated, which equals wasted energy if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Large Overall Size: The tank itself could become a hurdle in cramped spaces. If the property lacks a basement or utility closet, installation can be a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let's check out tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Unlike tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re heating up water only when requested, with powerful heating elements as the water comes through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they aren’t operating nonstop.
  • Surprisingly Durable: With regular maintenance from a certified expert, tankless water heaters can boast many years of service.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher because of the more sophisticated design.
  • Higher Service Needs: Tankless models may require more routine attention to keep their vital components in sync.
  • Retrofitting Challenges: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can adapt your plumbing to accommodate one, but it may add another layer of difficulty to your installation project.

Picking Your Water Heater: Consider What Suits You Best

For a majority of homeowners, we’d suggest going with the greater energy efficiency that tankless water heaters are capable of. But this also depends on variables like how much hot water you go through every day. You’ll want to reflect on your specific hot water needs before you make your decision.

  1. Your Average Hot Water Consumption: Assess how much hot water your household uses on average. As an example, big families who enjoy sports or have pets almost always need much more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. How Much Space the Heater Itself Needs: The layout of your home can impact how effectively a water heater operates. Check out potential installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is an appropriate size.
  3. Local Climate: Harsh winters mean your water heater will need more energy. This reduces the efficiency of tankless models, which are most efficient when there won’t be any large fluctuations in water usage.
  4. Utility Costs: Your average utility rates can make one option more attractive over the other.

Don’t forget, a trained professional like those at Lakeside Heating & Air can assist you in making a more educated decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before ensuring a smoother installation process.

Get a Quote from Lakeside Heating & Air

If you're thinking about a switch to a tankless water heater in Chelan, why not call Lakeside Heating & Air for a complimentary quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can give the peace of mind that you’ll always have all the hot water you need. Call today at 509-284-4265.