When deciding on a water heater, you have two main options: tank or tankless. Before deciding, it helps to know how each works to make an informed decision. At Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air, we want you to know the advantages, disadvantages, and considerations to determine which aligns with your needs, budget, and lifestyle. While both water heaters deliver a hot water supply to your home, their differences make the choice challenging. No matter which you select, you must rely on professional plumbers to install, maintain, and repair the water heater to ensure safe and efficient performance.
Tank Water Heaters
Tank or storage water heaters are the most common method of providing homes and businesses with hot water. Depending on size, storage tanks hold 20 to 80 gallons of water. These units heat the water with gas or electricity and keep it at a set temperature.
The outer shell features steel or another durable metal. Manufacturers line the inner tank with glass or porcelain to prevent corrosion from hard minerals. Magnesium or aluminum anode rods also help prevent corrosion inside the water tank.
How Tank Water Heaters Operate
Tank water heaters heat water using a heating element or burner, usually located at the bottom of the tank, though some models place it at the top or both locations. Cold water enters the tank through a dip tube. A thermostat senses the temperature of the water. The heating elements warm the water when the temperature drops below the set number. As the heating process continues, hot water rises to the top of the tank through stratification. The water heater tank drains from the top, allowing the cooler water to stay at the bottom and heat.
How Long Do Tank Water Heaters Last?
Tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years with proper maintenance. Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank, leading to less efficient heating and strain on the internal components. The sediment buildup can also lead to problems like overheating and corrosion that reduce the water heater’s performance and lifespan.
Tank Water Heater Maintenance
Maintenance involves draining and flushing the tank twice a year to remove sediment. Plumbers check the pressure relief valve to ensure proper function. This valve is critical for relieving excess pressure in the tank and preventing bursting. Maintenance appointments also include anode rod checks for sediment buildup and corrosion. Maintenance tasks keep tank water heaters operating safely.
Should You Choose Gas or Electric Tank Water Heaters?
Gas water heaters heat water faster than electric ones, which may benefit busy homes. Because they require ventilation and other additions, gas water heaters cost more to install than electric versions. Despite their higher initial expense, gas water heaters can save you on energy costs.
Electric water heaters are easier and less expensive to install but heat water slower than gas. Because they run on electricity alone, these tanks will likely contribute to higher utility bills.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are also known as on-demand water heaters because they only produce hot water when you turn on the tap. Because there is no tank for storage, the unit does not heat continuously like tank versions. You have an endless hot water supply as the water flows through the heating unit.
How Tankless Water Heaters Operate
When someone turns on a faucet, cold water flows through the unit. The flow sensor activates a gas burner or electric element to heat the water. Tankless water heaters are ideal for high-demand homes though larger homes may need more than one unit.
Manufacturers make the heat exchangers from copper or stainless steel. A tankless water heater’s shell is durable, heat-resistant plastic or metal. Metal versions typically last longer but may be more expensive.
How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?
Tankless water heaters last much longer than tanked versions, averaging 20 years or more. Their longevity is due to the on-demand heating system, which reduces wear and tear on the components. Intermittent usage reduces mineral scale buildup and corrosion, both common issues in tanked water heaters.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
Tankless water heaters need maintenance every one to two years, depending on your water’s hardness level. Maintenance involves descaling to prevent mineral buildup on the heating element, which can reduce the unit’s heating ability. These appointments also include cleaning or replacing the air intake and water filters. Although tankless water heaters require fewer maintenance steps, they are just as essential for safe and effective performance.
Should You Choose Gas or Electric Tankless Water Heaters?
Gas tankless water heaters are generally more powerful and deliver higher flow rates than electric models. They are also more expensive to install because gas requires ventilation. Gas tankless models typically require more installation room than electric water heaters.
Electric tankless water heaters are about a third the size of gas models. These units have lower flow rates than gas models, making them less reliable during peak demand.
Tank or Tankless Water Heaters: Which Should You Choose?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding between a tank or tankless water heater.
- Household size
- Budget
- Available space
- Hot water needs
- Efficiency goals
Plumbers can help you select a water heater based on several factors. They will assess your home’s size, water usage patterns, and energy source. The goal is to balance the upfront cost with effectiveness and long-term savings. Plumbers often provide insights into various models to fit your budget and needs.
You can use federal programs and incentives to install high-efficiency water heater models. The United States Department of Energy offers programs like the Homeowners Managing Efficiency Rebates and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate Programs. Check with your accountant and determine if you can file IRS Form 5695 for your new water heater.
Choose Professional Plumbing and Home Services
Turn to us! Our electrical services include car charging, panels, wiring, and generators. We offer electrical installations, maintenance, and repair services. Our team can install wiring in new construction homes or replace the old wiring in older ones.
Our plumbing services include bathrooms, kitchens, piping, gas, water heaters, and filtration. We also offer leak detection, sewer line repair, and drain cleaning. We can install new plumbing systems and components. Our team provides annual plumbing maintenance and extensive repair services.
Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air also offers HVAC services, including cooling and heating installation, maintenance, and repair. Our team provides services for air handlers, refrigerant leaks, and indoor air quality. We can also repair your ductwork. We can install HVAC systems in new construction homes or remove your old system and replace it with a more modern, energy-efficient model.
Contact our expert plumbers at Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air today if you need water heater services! We offer installation, maintenance, and repairs for all makes and models of electric, gas, tank, and tankless water heaters.
