Water heaters are essential to home ownership, but they can be costly to invest in. Determining which kind of water heater to purchase can also prove to be a tricky decision, as each unit has pros and cons.
When you decide to purchase one, it is vital to consider every type of unit's longevity, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. Though tankless water heaters have recently gained popularity, traditional water heaters also have their benefits. You should base your decision on what best fits your property.
What Is a Traditional Water Heater, and What Are the Benefits?
A traditional water heater heats your home’s water supply and ensures the water reaches the necessary places. They usually come in the form of large, cylindrical tanks. Traditional water heaters store and heat this water via electrical heating elements or gas burners. The tank is also insulated at the top to keep water warm until needed. When hot water is turned on in your home, this warm water flows out of the tank and into the plumbing system.
These appliances can have several benefits. They typically cost significantly less to install, as they require fewer parts. Additionally, they are typically easier to install and can be connected to your home’s plumbing system quickly and without much trouble. They are easier to find and purchase when needed, do not have complicated wiring, and don’t rely on features that are too technologically advanced.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Traditional Water Heater?
Traditional water heaters also come with their fair share of disadvantages. They can take up a considerable amount of space in your home, limiting places for other kinds of storage. They are not as energy efficient as tankless hot water heater systems, as they heat water whether it is being used or not. They also require regular maintenance and should be regularly drained to avoid sediment build-up.
What Is a Tankless “On-Demand” Water Heater, and What Are Its Advantages?
A tankless water heater only heats water when necessary. Water is heated as it passes through the unit rather than stored and released when needed by someone in the home.
One benefit of a tankless hot water heater is that you can enjoy a constant hot water supply without worrying about the supply running out. They are also more energy-efficient, only heating water when needed, and typically take up much less space in your home. Typically, they require less maintenance than a storage-tank water heater.
Drawbacks of a Tankless System?
There are also drawbacks to owning a tankless water heater. First and foremost, they can be much more expensive to install than their traditional counterparts. Hot water can also take longer to reach your sink or shower head, as heating the water can take some time. Additionally, suppose you own a large home with several individuals living under your roof. In that case, a single tankless water heater might not be able to keep up with the demands of your household.
What to Take Under Consideration When Determining Which Is Right for You
When determining which is right for your Winston-Salem property, there are two important factors, among others.
- First, evaluate your current home plumbing system. Factor into the question the size of your household.
- Examine your household members’ usage of hot water.
- Consider how much you’ll be able to pay for an initial installation and ongoing bills.
- Take the size of your home and the amount of storage space you require into account.
Contact the Water Heater Experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing
Whether you decide to stick with a traditional storage tank hot water heater or switch to a tankless system, the plumbing professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Winston Salem are here to answer any and all of your questions. Our plumbers have experience installing and repairing both types of units. Contact us today, and let us help you determine which appliance is right for you.
