Water heaters come
in two main versions: tank and tankless. Choosing one may be confusing,
considering that both have their upsides and advantages. If you want to narrow
down to one, you need to know which one wins between tankless water heaters vs tank heaters. Take
a look at how they compare against each other.
Upfront Cost
A tankless water
heater is a more advanced system that is complex to install. Therefore, you can
expect that its initial price is generally higher than that of a tank water
heater. Considering its working principle and how it needs special skills to
install, it only makes sense that you will pay extra for it. Luckily, it is
worth the investment, even when it can be twice the price of a tank heater.
Cost in the Long Run
With a tankless
water heater, you will spend more on the initial and installation costs. However,
they are more cost-effective in the long run. They are energy-efficient and
consume less energy, which means you will spend less on utility bills. Tank
water heaters are more expensive in the long run since they have higher
operating costs.
Lifespan
Another victory
for tankless heaters in the tankless
vs tank water heater debate is how they have an impressive lifespan.
Operating for up to 20 years makes them more economical down the line. In
contrast, tank heaters may be cheaper to purchase but serve you for only 10
years, which is not as cost-effective in the long run.
Energy-efficiency
Tank heaters store
enough water as needed and provide a steady supply for the house. Tankless
heaters operate differently, providing hot water only when needed, saving a lot
of energy in the process. In comparison, they are more energy-efficient, which
means lower energy bills.
Hot Water Needs
One setback with
tank water heaters is that they store the hot water in advance, so you must
size it according to your needs. The more people there are in the house and the
higher the demand for hot water, the bigger the system to go for. A tankless
heater, on the other hand, is more convenient because it heats the water when
it runs, so you never worry about hot water running out.
Which Water Heater Is Better: Tank or Tankless?
When considering whether
to purchase a tank or tankless water heater, you will base your decision on
what matters most. Do you need a system that is cheap upfront, like the tank
heater, or an energy-efficient one, like the tankless heater? Contact A-Total
Plumbing for all your tank and tankless water heater installation needs in Atlanta,
and we will help you decide.