Making the decision between a classic water heater with a storage tank and a tankless water heater is a decision you’ll probably face at some point. After all, water heaters are the unsung heroes for a dependable source of hot water. And since your plumbing fixtures and home appliances rely on this hot water, it’s always crucial to consider all your options carefully.

This useful guide from your local experts at Brandywine Heating & Air lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the distinct elements in their design as well as some advantages and disadvantages of each kind. These valuable insights will ensure you can make an educated choice regarding your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve figured it out, give us a call for professional tank water heater installation.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters: The Reliable Choice

Let's get to know conventional storage tank water heaters first. That large storage tank is the central feature here, storing an ample supply of water that’s always heated. Whenever you need hot water, a tank water heater is ready to supply it.

Pros:

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

Cons:

  • Nonstop Heating: Tank water heaters have to keep water constantly heated, which inevitably leads to extra cost if you’re not frequently using that water.
  • Large Overall Size: The tank itself can be a challenge in tight quarters. If the property lacks a basement or utility closet, installation becomes a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Cutting-Edge Comfort

Now, let's consider tankless water heaters, an advanced alternative that’s comparatively recent. Distinct from tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re heating only when you ask for it, using robust heating elements as the water passes through the system.

Pros:

  • Less Energy Used: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they’re not operating nonstop.
  • A Smart, Resilient Design: With routine maintenance from a trained technician, tankless water heaters can offer a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Bigger Price Tag Up Front: Initial installation costs are higher as a result of the more complex design.
  • May Need More Upkeep: Tankless models may require more periodic maintenance to keep their key elements in sync.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: Older homes aren't always prepared for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can modify your plumbing to accommodate one, but it could add further costs to your installation project.

Choosing the Right Water Heater: Tailored to Your Comfort

For most homes, 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 consumes on average. For instance, larger families who enjoy sports or have pets will need a lot more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. How Much Space the Heater Itself Needs: The layout of your home can affect how well a water heater operates. Check out all possible installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is the right fit.
  3. Regional Climate: Long winters mean much higher energy use that time of year. This reduces the efficiency of tankless models, which are best suited when there won’t be any huge jumps in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your community’s energy prices can render one option more attractive over the other.

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

Get a Quote from Brandywine Heating & Air

If you're ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater in Wilmington, why not call Brandywine Heating & Air for a no-cost quote? Our expert plumbing technicians can offer the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 302-261-3596.