What you need to know
Spring is here in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. and as we leave the cold winter temperatures behind us, some homeowners may look back and realize their home’s water heater struggled this past season, and it may be time for an upgrade.
At Astar Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric, we know that choosing the right water heating system for your home is a costly decision that may not always be as simple as some manufacturers make it out to be. However, we want our customers to feel confident in their decision, so let’s break down the advantages and the not so “hot” features of the two most popular water heating systems.
Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters:
The energy efficiency of on-demand (tankless) water heaters is between 24 and 34 percent higher than that of traditional storage tank water heaters for households using less than 41 gallons of hot water daily. You can benefit from an extra 8 to 14 percent in energy efficiency if you use a lot of hot water daily (around 86 gallons), for example if you have a larger family or if you enjoy extra-long hot showers.
A tankless water heater may cost more than a traditional storage-tank water heater but typically will last longer. For example, tankless models will last approximately 20 years instead of storage tank models, which only last about ten years before they reach their life expectancy. However, be warned that both types of water heaters may last less time in “hard water” regions.
In addition to being able to consistently deliver hot water to your home, installing a tankless water heater in your house can save you between 27 and 50 percent on energy costs associated with water heater usage.
As they require less space to install, they may also be more aesthetic solution for your home.
Advantages of Conventional Water Heaters:
The majority of households have traditional storage tank water heaters. Homes in some areas may have a preferred fuel source for your hot water heater, so it’s important to note that conventional tank water heaters can run off on electricity or natural gas. Storage-tank water heaters powered by natural gas are known for utilizing less energy and are less expensive to operate than their electric counterparts. They are slightly more expensive than electric models, but still, their initial cost will be lower than a tankless option.
Unlike the on-demand (tankless) water heaters, conventional tank models require less frequent maintenance and overall, their repairs will be simpler and hence, more affordable.
However, they are known for increasing your utility expenses because of the constant heating and reheating of water to the pre-set temperature; not to mention that during the colder weather, they will use more energy to perform correctly.
Compared to tankless water heaters, they take up more room which may make it challenging to install a storage tank water heaters in a home with limited space, especially since neither tankless or traditional tank water heaters are recommended to be placed outside your home.
Whatever your preference may be, our expert plumbers have the knowledge and technical skills needed to assess your home’s water heating needs and suggest the best possible water heating solution for your home. Astar plumbers can service and install tankless water heaters and traditional water heaters. Contact us today!