Making the decision between a traditional water heater with a storage tank and a tankless water heater is a decision most homeowners face at some point. After all, water heaters are the cornerstone for a reliable source of hot water. And since your plumbing fixtures and home appliances depend on this hot water, it’s always important to consider all your options carefully.

This practical guide from your local experts at Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the unique aspects of their design in addition to some benefits and drawbacks of each model. These key details will help you make an educated choice regarding your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve made your decision, feel free to contact our installers for professional tank water heater installation.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters: The Reliable Choice

Let's examine conventional storage tank water heaters first. That ample storage tank is the standout feature here, holding onto an abundant supply of water that’s continually heated. Whenever you need hot water, a tank water heater is ready to supply it.

Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly Installation: Tank water heaters will have smaller expenses for installation, thanks to their straightforward design.
  • Simplified Upkeep: A streamlined design also means less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Higher Energy Use: Tank water heaters must keep water constantly heated, which means wasted energy if you’re not regularly using that water.
  • Space Requirements: The tank itself is sometimes a challenge in tight quarters. If your home lacks a basement or utility closet, installation becomes a bit trickier.

Tankless Water Heaters: Cutting-Edge Comfort

Now, let's check out tankless water heaters, an innovative alternative that’s providing more flexibility to homeowners. Compared to tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re heating up water only when you ask for it, thanks to robust heating elements as the water flows through the system.

Pros:

  • Less Energy Used: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they aren’t always on.
  • Surprisingly Durable: With regular maintenance from a skilled professional, tankless water heaters can enjoy many years of service.

Cons:

  • Higher Setup Cost: Initial installation costs are higher as a result of the more sophisticated design.
  • Higher Service Needs: Tankless models may require more routine attention to keep their key elements working efficiently.
  • Retrofitting Challenges: Older homes may not be ready for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can retrofit your plumbing to accommodate one, but it might complicate 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 provide. But this is based on factors such as how much hot water you need day to day. You should have a basic idea of how much water is needed to meet your specific hot water needs before you make your choice.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Gauge how much hot water your household consumes on average. For instance, large families who are active in sports or have pets almost always need much more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. Space for Installation: The layout of your home can impact how efficient a water heater operates. Consider potential installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. Regional Climate: Harsh winters mean a water heater that works harder. 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 community’s fuel or electricity costs can make one option more appealing over the other.

Don’t forget, experienced pros like those at Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning can aid you in making a more educated decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before facilitating a smoother installation process.

Get a Quote from Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning

If you're considering a switch to a tankless water heater in Streamwood, why not call Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning for a no-cost quote? Our expert plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 630-313-2509.