Traditional vs. Tankless Water Heater
In recent years, we’ve seen tankless water heaters grow as a popular alternative to traditional water heaters. But if you’re new to tankless water heaters, it may seem overwhelming to make the switch. We’re here to help break down the difference between traditional water heaters and tankless water heaters. Once you see the features and benefits, you can easily decide which type of water heater is best for your home or business. So let’s settle the debate between traditional vs. tankless water heaters!
Features of Traditional Water Heaters
- Holds 30-50 gallons of water in a tank
- Preheats the water before use
- Tank must refill and reheat to keep hot water in use
- Typically lasts about 10-15 years
Features of Tankless Water Heaters
- Available as electric or natural gas
- Provides hot water instantly
- Long lifespan of 20+ years
- Energy efficient
Pros and Cons of Traditional Water Heaters
Most homes are built with a traditional water heater, which means there’s likely a designated space for them, but traditional water heater units are much larger than tankless heaters, so they take up more space. You could use that extra space in the garage or closet for more storage!
Traditional water heaters also cost less and have lower installation costs. However, a major con to traditional water heaters is they are more expensive in the long run to operate. Additionally, a traditional water heater only lasts 10-15 years before a replacement is needed.
Depending on the size of a standard water heater unit, it can hold anywhere from 30-50 gallons. This means that generally, you should always have hot water on demand. However, if you have a lot of people in your family or run a shower with the dishwasher and the washing machine simultaneously, it’s possible to run out of hot water.
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters have many benefits that last for the long term. First, the size of the unit is much smaller than a traditional water heater. That means the placement is much more flexible than a traditional water heater.
Initially, a tankless water heater costs more than a traditional water heater, which may be hard for some budgets. However, you will spend less over the lifespan of the tankless water heater. In addition, a tankless water heater is much more energy efficient than a standard water heater, saving you money in the long run.
In addition to the long-term energy and cost savings, a tankless water heater lasts 20+ years. So while you may be paying more upfront for the unit and installation, you aren’t replacing it as often as a traditional water heater. These water heaters are built to last, so you will enjoy a long life of on-demand hot water in your home or workplace!
Electric or Gas Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater is powered by either electricity or natural gas. Homeowners or business owners with both electric and natural gas availability might wonder about electric vs. gas tankless water heaters. Gas tankless water heaters generate more hot water per minute than electric tankless water heaters. Electric water heaters also cost more to operate than gas tankless water heaters over the lifespan.
If you don’t have a natural gas line, you can have one installed with a gas tankless water heater. Overall, it’s more efficient and effective to choose a gas tankless water heater over electric. For large families or businesses, you can install multiple tankless water heaters to meet high demand.
The Verdict: Traditional vs. Tankless Water Heater
With all of these features and benefits, it’s easy to see the tankless water heater beats out a traditional water heater. A tankless water heater is a great investment that will yield on-demand hot water in an energy-efficient way. Choosing a gas tankless water heater over an electric further increases your tankless water heater’s efficiency and water output. Once you experience a tankless water heater’s high output and efficiency, you will never go back!
Tankless Water Heaters in Fort Myers
If you’re interested in a tankless water heater in your home or business, the team at Gas Service Center is here to help! We serve the Fort Myers area and surrounding cities for all of their natural gas and propane needs. One of our specialties is a full-service installation for gas tankless water heaters. We can even install a gas line at your home, too, if you don’t already have one. The experts at Gas Service Center guarantee professional installation and service for your tankless water heater. Gas Service is committed to helping you find the perfect water heater solution for your home.
Contact Gas Service Center today for a free estimate for your tankless water heater! Stay up-to-date with Gas Service Center on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.