There’s a relaxing feeling that comes with a hot shower, especially after a tiresome long day. You also need hot water to remove grime and laundry stains. Therefore, the importance of investing in water heaters can’t be overstated. However, water heater installation services don’t come cheap. According to Architectural Digest, water heater installation costs $900 to $3,000.
Even with enough budget, there’s another problem: choosing between a traditional or tankless water heater can be confusing. Your dilemma ends here. This article puts features of contemporary tankless and conventional water heaters on a scale. In the end, making a choice will be a breeze.
Traditional
Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters are also known as storage tank water heaters. They’re the most common water heating system. Here are some of its top attributes.
Operation: Standard Capacity
A traditional water heater typically stores and heats a specific amount of water in a tank. Mostly, the capacity ranges anywhere between 30 and 80 gallons. The system heats water continuously to maintain a set temperature.
Installation
You’ll need a dedicated space to accommodate the traditional water heater’s tank. For example, you can position the tank in the basement or garage. However, the system needs ample ventilation and electricity or gas line connectivity.
Cost
A traditional water heater installation generally costs less upfront than a tankless water heater. Therefore, it’s more affordable. According to Forbes, the water heater costs $600 to $800. Conventional water heater installation services range between $900 and $2,500, relatively lower than a tankless model, which ranges between $1,000 and $3,500. These conventional units can last between 10 and 15 years.
Energy Efficiency
According to the US Department of Energy, water heating accounts for nearly 18% of energy usage in your home. It’s the second-largest household energy expense! Even so, traditional water heaters are less energy efficient than tankless models. Why, you wonder? Primarily, stored water constantly loses heat, requiring reheating. However, newer models have improved insulation to reduce heat loss.
Tankless Water Heaters
Did you know that, according to the US Department of Energy, a tankless water heater is 34% more energy efficient than traditional storage tank water heaters if you use less than 41 gallons daily? High-consumption households aren’t left behind. Homes with high water usage averaging 86 gallons daily enjoy up to 14% energy efficiency! Below are more exciting tankless water heater installation features.
Operation
Tankless or on-demand water heaters provide hot water without storing it in a tank. The system uses electricity coils or a gas burner to heat water directly as it flows through the unit. So, after opening your tap, cold water passing through the unit is heated for all your hot water needs.
Installation
Unlike traditional units, tankless water heaters significantly save space. The units are more compact, enabling you to mount them easily on the wall. Even so, they require a connection to a source of electricity or a gas line. Also, you can easily modify it to meet your increasing hot water demand.
Cost
Installing a tankless unit is more costly than traditional water heater installation services. According to This Old House, purchasing the system costs around $600 to $1,500 and between $900 and $2,500 to install it. The good news is you can expect the unit to serve you between 15 and 20 years.
Energy Efficiency
A tankless water heater only heats water when you need it. It eliminates standby heat loss and hence is more energy efficient than the traditional units. So, if your primary goal is to conserve energy while still heating water, consider a tankless water heater for your home.
In Summary
Generally, your ideal water heater installation system depends on preferences, needs, and budget. A traditional water heater is more suitable if you’re focused on saving on installation costs. On the other hand, if your primary goal is to save on your energy bills, a tankless unit is your ideal option. Which one do you choose.
Traditional Water Heaters vs Tankless Water Heaters: Which is the Best? first appeared on Web and IT News.