Of the many decisions homeowners face, one of the most crucial is choosing the right type of water heater. It’s not an easy task, to say the least, as it can be confusing to figure out whether a tank or tankless water heater would make the best fit for your family’s needs. With an investment so significant, the last thing you want to do is choose the wrong kind. At Custom Aire, we help our clients make this decision every day. Here are a few pointers that should help you get started.
Considerations to Make
The first place to start when deciding whether to invest in a tank or tankless water heater is with an assessment of your family’s hot water usage. How often do you do laundry? Do you have a dishwasher? How many people have to take a shower or bath every day? Do you have extra house guests often? What’s your average water bill? The answers to these kinds of questions will help you determine whether a tank or tankless water heater system is right for your home.
When to Choose a Tank
Tank water heaters are great for homes that run mostly on electricity, as tankless electric heaters typically require more capacity than the average home can provide. If your home is prone to power outages due to harsh weather, you can also opt for a natural gas model that will still function when the electricity is out.
Depending on its size, tank water heaters can hold up to 80 gallons of hot water at roughly 120 degrees Fahrenheit, storing it in the tank until it is used in the kitchen, bathroom, or elsewhere. They also feature a lower price tag than tankless water heaters and a relatively fast installation time of usually only a few hours. So if your schedule or budget is tight, a tank system might be the best way to go.
When to Go Tankless
If you don’t have the space for a tank water heater, tankless systems provide a host of advantages. For one, they can be installed both inside and outside of your home. They are also easier on your electric bill, as they only heat the water when you need to use it instead of constantly heating the water like a tank system. However, depending on your electrical system or gas line setup, a tankless water heater may require new pipes, exhaust vents, or other equipment.
Though they typically have a more expensive upfront cost than tank water heaters, they also feature an average lifespan of over 20 years. That means they’re likely to last longer than tank water heaters and save you the hassle of revisiting this decision again in the near future.
Ensure a Proper Installation
Regardless of whether you choose a tank or tankless water heater, the only way to ensure it will operate properly is by having experienced professionals complete your water heater installation. For over 20 years, Custom Aire has been successfully setting up a variety of tank and tankless water heaters for residents in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. If you’re still not sure which type of system to choose, our team of experts will be happy to meet with you for a consultation. For more information, contact Custom Aire today.