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

This handy guide from your local experts at Ambience HVAC, Inc. lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the distinct elements in their design as well as some benefits and drawbacks of each one. These valuable insights will give you everything you need to make an educated choice regarding your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve made your decision, give us a call for professional tank water heater installation.

Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters: The Reliable Choice

Let's take a closer look at conventional storage tank water heaters first. That sizable storage tank is the key feature here, ensuring you have a generous supply of water that’s continually heated. The moment you need hot water, a tank water heater can provide it.

Pros:

  • Lower Initial Costs: Tank water heaters will have smaller expenses for installation, thanks to their straightforward design.
  • Streamlined Maintenance Needs: An uncomplicated design also leads to less potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Nonstop Heating: Tank water heaters have to keep water continuously heated, which means extra cost if you’re not constantly using that water.
  • Space Requirements: The tank itself could become a challenge in cramped spaces. If the property doesn’t have a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let's explore tankless water heaters, an innovative alternative that’s providing more flexibility to homeowners. Unlike tank models, tankless water heaters operate only as required. They’re heating only when requested, thanks to robust heating elements as the water comes through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models can improve your plumbing’s energy efficiency since they’re not always on.
  • Surprisingly Durable: With proper maintenance from a trained technician, tankless water heaters can boast a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Larger Initial Investment: Initial installation costs are higher because of the more sophisticated design.
  • More Frequent Maintenance: Tankless models do best when provided more periodic maintenance to keep their important parts functioning smoothly.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: 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.

Deciding on Your Ideal Water Heater: Every Home Has Unique Needs

For a majority of homeowners, we’d suggest the higher energy efficiency that tankless water heaters can offer. But this is based on variables like how much hot water you need day to day. You should think about your specific hot water needs before you make your selection.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Assess how much hot water your household uses on average. As an example, big families who are active in sports or have pets almost always need a lot more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. Space for Installation: The size of your home can affect how well a water heater operates. Consider all possible installation locations and consult with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. Regional Climate: Long 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 big spikes in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your community’s fuel or electricity costs can render one option more enticing over the other.

Keep in mind, experienced pros like those at Ambience HVAC, Inc. can help you in making a more knowledgeable decision. They understand which units meet your specific needs before ensuring a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call Ambience HVAC, Inc.?

If you're thinking about a switch to a tankless water heater in Wilmington, why not call Ambience HVAC, Inc. for a complimentary quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can provide the peace of mind that you’ll always have the hot water you need. Call today at 302-239-HVAC (4822).