Most of us are aware of the debate between tankless and traditional hot water heaters. Those who sit in the “tankless” stands cheer for energy efficiency, while those across the field on the “traditional” side boast lower upfront costs. With all of the back-and-forth, we wanted to provide you with a true look at the pros and cons of tankless water heaters, so you can decide what is right for your home.
Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
Going Greener – Traditional water heaters have a large tank that is continually heated so that hot water is available when someone needs it. Naturally, the water inside the tank cools due to the temperature around the tank, so the heating element kicks in again and again, whether you are using hot water or not. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, which provides significant savings on utility costs. When no one is using hot water, none is being heated.
Additionally, tankless water heaters don’t leave a large metal tank rusting in the landfill once it is replaced.
Longer Heartbeat – Tankless hot water heaters last longer. While traditional water heater may last between 10 to 13 years, their tankless counterparts are expected to last up to 20 years. They also generally carry a longer warranty.
Small Space Friendly – Traditional water heaters are large and bulky, with a 40 to 60-gallon capacity taking up 60” in height and 24” in width. In other words, they take up the space of a small closet. On average, a tankless water heater measures approximately 28” tall and 20” wide, similar to a large computer.
Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Chance of Going Cold – Tankless water heaters are able to produce a few gallons of hot water at all times, but they are also only able to heat a few gallons of water at a time. This means, that if you live in a household where your water usage often happens at the same time, for example, multiple showers, the dishes, and the laundry often happens simultaneously, a tankless water heater may not be up for the job.
Increased Power Requirements – In order to have hot water on demand, it takes more power than heating it slowly and constantly. Your tankless hot water heater may require up to 4 times the amount of energy in bursts than your old unit. For some homes, this simply isn’t possible.
Spend Now, Save Later – While the tankless hot water heater will save you money in the long run, it often costs much more to purchase and install. With traditional units starting at $300-$400, tankless versions often begin at $1,000. However, if you consider the longer expected lifespan, it may even out in the end.
Call In The Experts
Choosing the hot water option that fits best with your family’s needs is a personal decision. Consult an expert that can guide you through the process and ensure that your new system is installed safely and efficiently. Contact Just Right Services today at (949) 245-6320 to get trusted advice about your hot water heating system.
