Wondering whether a hot water tank or tankless water heater is better for your home? This quick guide will help you make the right decision for you.
What’s the Difference Between a Hot Water Tank & a Tankless Water Heater?”
A conventional hot water tank is a large storage tank that contains a supply of hot water that is kept hot by the tank and ready to use. When you use enough hot water to empty the tank, the tank then refills with cold water and heats it. This water takes time to heat up, which is why you may find that you only have cold water after multiple hot showers have been taken close together.
A tankless water heater, also called an on-demand water heater, is a system that heats the water as you use it. This means that you do not need the space for a large storage tank and you do not need to wait for your water to heat up, since it is being heated as you run your hot water taps.
Hot Water Tank Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large capacity for simultaneous hot water usage
- More affordable to purchase and install
Cons
- Waiting period for hot water to replenish
- Takes up a lot of space
- Shorter lifespan than tankless water heaters
- Less efficient than tankless models
Tankless Water Heater Pros & Cons
Pros
- No waiting around for hot water to replenish itself
- Tankless water heaters are small, so you save space
- Efficient, saves money on monthly bills
- Tankless units last longer than hot water tanks
- Reduced environmental impact
Cons
- Lower capacity for the amount of hot water you can use simultaneously
- More expensive to purchase and install
Ready to upgrade your home water heater? Trust the experienced professionals at Santana Bros Plumbing to get the job done right.