Not sure whether you should replace your water heater with a traditional storage-tank water heater or switch to a tankless water heater? There are pros and cons to both options. Use this helpful comparison of tankless vs tanked water heaters to help you decide which is better for your home!
Efficiency
Tank
Tanked water heaters are susceptible to standby heat loss and tend to be less energy efficient than tankless models. However, there are plenty of high-efficiency options available.
Tankless
The Department of Energy estimates that tankless water heaters can be 24-34% more efficient than conventional tank storage water heaters.
Cost
Tank
Tank storage water heaters have a lower purchase price than tankless options, but they can be more expensive to operate since they must keep water heated 24/7.
Tankless
Tankless water heaters are more expensive to install than traditional water heaters. But, tankless water heaters have lower operating costs and last longer than tank water heaters which can help offset the higher installation costs.
Lifespan
Tank
Traditional tank water heaters have a lifespan of about 8-10 years.
Tankless
With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters can last for 20 years or longer.
Size
Tank
Tank water heaters are much bigger than tankless water heaters and need to be installed in a closet-sized space. They typically provide 40-50 gallons of hot water at a time.
Tankless
Tankless water heaters take up very little space, but homes that use a lot of hot water may require multiple units.
Maintenance
Tank
Tanked water heaters do not need an annual flush, reducing maintenance requirements.
Tankless
Tankless water heaters need to be flushed annually, which adds to your water heater maintenance requirements.
Power
Tank
Traditional water heaters store 40-50 gallons of hot water and can provide you with hot water for several hours in the event of a power outage.
Tankless
Because they heat water as needed, tankless water heaters will not work in a power outage.
The plumbing experts at Pippin Brothers can help you choose the right type of water heater for your home. You can count on us for professional water heater installation, repair, and maintenance in Lawton, Duncan, and Fort Sill, Oklahoma.