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

This useful guide from the local experts at The Frazier Company lays out tank and tankless water heaters. You’ll learn more about the distinct elements in their design as well as some advantages and disadvantages of each one. These valuable insights will help you make an informed choice based on your home's hot water needs. Once you’ve figured it out, give us a call for expert tank water heater installation.

Storage Tank Water Heaters: A Time-Tested Favorite

Let's take a closer look at conventional storage tank water heaters first. That sizable storage tank is the key feature here, holding onto a generous supply of water that’s constantly heated. As soon as you need hot water, a tank water heater can deliver it.

Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly Installation: Tank water heaters will have lower up-front installation costs, thanks in part to a simpler design.
  • Simplified Upkeep: An uncomplicated design also leads to fewer potential maintenance needs.

Cons:

  • Higher Energy Use: Tank water heaters have to keep water perpetually heated, which equals extra cost if you’re not constantly using that water.
  • Bulky Size: The tank itself could become a challenge in cramped spaces. If the property lacks a basement or utility closet, installation is a bit trickier.

On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters: A More Modern Option

Now, let's check out tankless water heaters, an innovative alternative that’s comparatively recent. Compared to tank models, tankless water heaters operate when needed. They’re generating hot water only when needed, thanks to powerful heating elements as the water comes through the system.

Pros:

  • Greater Energy Savings: Tankless models are much more energy efficient since they’re not operating nonstop.
  • A Smart, Resilient Design: With proper maintenance from a certified expert, tankless water heaters can boast a longer life span.

Cons:

  • Larger Initial Investment: Initial installation costs are higher as a result of the more complex design.
  • Higher Service Needs: Tankless models may require more periodic maintenance to keep their vital components in sync.
  • Potential Need to Update Plumbing Infrastructure Updates: Older homes aren’t always equipped for a tankless water heater. Plumbers can adapt your plumbing to accommodate one, but it may add another layer of difficulty to your installation project.

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

For most homes, we’d recommend the greater energy efficiency that tankless water heaters are capable of. But this also depends on aspects including how much hot water you go through every day. You should have a basic idea of how much water is needed to meet your specific hot water needs before you make your choice.

  1. Typical Hot Water Use: Estimate how much hot water your household goes through on average. For instance, big families who are active in sports or have pets will need a lot more hot water than a single person living alone.
  2. Sufficient Space to Install It: The dimensions of your home can affect how efficient a water heater operates. Check out all possible installation locations and confirm with professionals if your model is capable of fitting where you want it go.
  3. The Area’s Average Temperatures Through the Year: Long winters mean your water heater will need more energy. This reduces the efficiency of tankless models, which are better in situations when there won’t be any huge jumps in water usage.
  4. Energy Prices: Your local energy prices can make one option more enticing over the other.

Remember, experienced pros like those at The Frazier Company can aid you in making a more educated decision. They understand which brands meet your specific needs before facilitating a smoother installation process.

Why Not Call The Frazier Company?

If you're ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater in Omaha, why not call The Frazier Company for a free quote? Our skilled plumbing technicians can give the peace of mind that you’ll always have all the hot water you need. Call today at 402-628-0206.