Water heaters are one of those home comfort systems that are relatively easy to take for granted, even though they are one of the appliances we rely on the most. Could you even imagine being without hot water for showering and all the other needs a modern household has?
Which Is Better for Your Home: Tank or Tankless Water Heater?
- Tank-style heaters store and continuously heat water in a 40–80‑gallon tank. They cost less upfront but can run out during high demand and lose energy through standby heat.
- Tankless heaters heat water on demand, offering limitless hot water, about 20–30% more energy efficiency, and a smaller footprint—but they require a higher initial investment and may need upgrades for gas lines or electric capacity.
- Choose based on your usage: A tank works well for low to moderate households, while tankless is ideal for high-demand scenarios or energy-conscious homeowners.
- Consider installation complexity: Tank models are easier and cheaper to install; tankless units might require venting updates and higher-capacity utilities.
- Evaluate long-term value: Tank heaters generally last 8–12 years, whereas tankless models can reach 20+, offsetting higher upfront costs with energy savings and longevity.
When it comes time to replace your water heater–yes that’s right, no water heater lasts forever–then you’ll want to do your due diligence in exploring your options to make sure you have the most efficient system possible. If you’re nearing that point, it’s smart to prepare for replacing your old water heater.
The two main options to choose from when selecting a water heater are the tank water heater and the tankless water heater. You may have heard a lot about the tankless system in recent years, as it is growing in popularity. It’s become an ultra-efficient option for many homeowners! However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s right for every home and situation. Read on as we uncover the differences between these systems, or review this guide comparing tank and tankless water heaters.
