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Which Water Heater is Right for Me?

A tankless water heater.

Are you in the market for a new water heater? You’re probably trying to decide between a tankless and standard tank water heater, but aren’t sure of the main differences between the two. Don’t worry, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of each. Keep reading to find out!

Tankless Water Heaters

Pros

Immediate Hot Water

Do you have to wait a few minutes for your water to turn hot? Even worse, has your water ever turned cold in the middle of a shower? With a tankless water heater, you’ll never have to worry about this as they heat the water quickly and as needed.

Saves Space

Tankless water heaters are much less bulky than standard tank water heaters, often being mounted on a wall. If you live in a smaller home where your priority is optimizing space, tankless water heaters could definitely benefit you.

Lower Monthly Bills

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than standard tank water heaters, which saves money in the long run. While your monthly bills won’t be significantly less expensive, you can expect to save hundreds of dollars annually with the installation of a tankless water heater.

Cons

Higher Upfront Cost

Since tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan, their upfront costs are more expensive than a standard tank model. On average, the cheapest option for a tankless water heater starts at $1000, while most tank water heaters typically start at $500.

Limited Hot Water

Tankless water heaters provide instant hot water, but the supply is not unlimited. If you live in a larger household where a shower, washer, and dishwasher might be running at the same time, a tankless water heater might be overworked.

Standard Tanks Water Heaters

Pros

Lower Upfront Cost and Basic Installation

You’ll be saving money with standard tank water heaters because their installation is a much simpler process and the unit itself is significantly less than a tankless water heater.

Hot Water Supply for Multiple Uses

As long as you have enough hot water in the tank, standard models can supply hot water for multiple uses at once. If you want to shower and run your dishwasher at the same time, you’ll have no problem with running more than one water source at the same time.

Cons

Less Energy Efficient

Standard tank water heaters waste energy even when hot water is not being used because the unit is constantly maintaining the temperature. This can cause an increase in monthly bills as well.

Size

While tankless water heaters are much smaller and usually mounted on a wall, standard models are much bulkier and take up a decent amount of space.

Lexington Water Heater Services

Dr Rooter of Lexington is your go-to water heater specialist in Lexington. Call us today at (803) 398-2090 to learn more about our water heater services and we’d be happy to discuss options for you!