The debate ‘heats up’ as conventional hot water tanks continue to be challenged by on-demand or tankless water heaters.
Before making a decision on how to heat the water in your home, various factors must be considered including water capacity, energy efficiency, initial dollar investment and long-term savings, space and availability of parts.
Essentially, it is important to understand the demands and expectations you have for your hot water supply before making a decision that will affect your daily comfort, monthly bills and yearly maintenance.
Here is a basic comparison and some general information for the two options:
HOT WATER TANKS (conventional)
- constantly stores heated water, regardless of amount of use
- less expensive to supply and install
- higher energy bills, due to hot water storage
- takes up more space
- 40 and 50 gallon models typical for residential use
- available in gas or electric
- good for steady, high-use demands (including suites)
- some rebates available
- if the power goes out, hot water is still available until the storage tank is empty
- efficiency can vary between makes, models and fuel source
TANKLESS WATER HEATERS (on- demand)
- instantly provides continuous hot water
- more expensive to supply and install
- lower energy bills, due to better efficiency
- uses less space, hangs on wall & frees up floor space
- uses up to 30% less energy than conventional hot water tanks
- ideal for families and couples where water demands are known (not suites)
- but if the power goes out, so does the hot water!!
- longer life span
- more expensive parts
- some rebates available