Tankless Water Heaters vs. Traditional Tanks

When it’s time to replace your water heater, you need to look beyond the initial size and energy source considerations. This is the perfect time to switch to a tankless water heater, but is that the right choice for you? Here are a few things to know about the conversion so that you can make the right decision for your home and family.

Benefits of Tankless

Eliminating the bulky tank opens up valuable space inside your home and helps you save on water bills. Tankless units also last longer than traditional water heaters, so you’ll save in the long run. People love knowing that they’ll always have the hot water they need, and they also love knowing they aren’t wasting energy on hot water they don’t need.

Installation Considerations

One of the challenges with going tankless is the initial installation. These systems use a blast of heat to get the water ready, so they have different exhaust requirements than systems that rely on a lower temperature pilot light. You may need to have the exhaust line beefed up to handle the change in temperature, and you’ll need a sturdy wall to mount the new unit on. The cost of installing a tankless system can be high, but many people believe that the initial expense is more than justified through the great benefits.

Longevity You can Rely On

The average water heater lasts 10 to 12 years, but a tankless unit has a longer lifespan. According to research, eliminating the tank allows the water heaters to run for 10 years or longer. Getting almost twice the use out of an appliance makes it a smart investment for many people. However, you may not want to pay the extra money if you’re going to move in the next few years.

Claim that Storage

What many people love about the tankless option is that they can reclaim the storage space for more important uses. Rather than losing several feet of floor space to the tank, you can use that space for almost anything. Some tankless heaters are even mounted on the outside of the home to ensure that you can make the most of your interior space.
There are many benefits to a tankless water heater, but it’s still a personal decision. If you are worried about the budget or are moving in a few years, then a traditional tank may work better for you. If you care more about having water on demand and know that you’ll be in the home for decades to come, then a tankless unit is a smart investment.