Hot water is a daily necessity in any home—from warm showers to cleaning dishes and doing laundry. When your water heater starts to act up, it can disrupt your entire routine. If you’re considering replacing your system, you might be wondering whether a traditional or tankless water heater is the right choice for your home. Let us help you break it down so you can make the best decision for your household.
A Traditional Water Heater Explained
Traditional water heaters are the systems most people are familiar with. These units feature a large tank that stores and heats water using gas or electricity. The heated water remains in the tank until you need it. However, the supply is limited—once the tank runs out, you’ll need to wait for it to heat more water. It’s a common feature for most homes, but whether it’s the right choice for your household depends on a number of factors.
Pros of a Traditional Water Heater
For some homes, traditional water heaters are traditional for a reason. From their reliability to on-demand supply of hot water, here are some of the benefits of traditional water heaters:
Lower Installation Costs
Traditional water heaters are more straightforward to install, which means lower upfront costs.
Simplicity and Reliability
These systems don’t rely on advanced technology, making them easier to maintain and generally more reliable.
Quick Access
Since the water is already heated, hot water is readily available once you turn on the faucet.
Cons of a Traditional Water Heater
While traditional water heaters are the norm for many homes, they may not be the right solution for every household. Some reasons that may switch from a traditional water heater are:
Size and Space
Traditional water heaters are larger and can take up significant space in your home.
Higher Energy Usage
They continuously heat water in the tank, even when it’s not being used, which makes them less energy-efficient.
Maintenance Needs
Over time, sediment can build up in the tank, requiring regular maintenance to keep the system running efficiently.
How a Tankless Water Heater Works
Tankless water heaters work differently from traditional systems. Instead of storing hot water, they heat it on demand. When you turn on a hot water faucet, cold water flows through the unit and is heated instantly by gas or electric elements. For many homes, it can be an effective and energy-saving solution to their hot water needs!
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
If you’re considering switching to a tankless water heater, here are some pros that you should take into account:
Energy Efficiency
Since they only heat water when needed, tankless systems use less energy than traditional water heaters.
Compact Size
These units are much smaller and can be mounted on walls, freeing up valuable space in your home.
Endless Hot Water
You’ll never run out of hot water, making tankless heaters ideal for larger families with high water demands.
Lower Maintenance Costs
With fewer components and no tank to maintain, tankless systems often require less upkeep.
Drawbacks of a Tankless Water Heater
While there are many benefits to a tankless water heater, there are still some other factors you may have to consider. Some of these drawbacks include:
Higher Upfront Costs
Tankless water heaters have a steeper initial price tag and are more complex to install.
Slight Delays in Hot Water
Because the system heats water on demand, you may experience a brief delay before the hot water reaches your faucet.
Which Is Right For Your Home?
Choosing between a traditional and a tankless water heater comes down to your household’s needs and preferences. If you live in a smaller home with lower water demands, a traditional water heater might be the better fit due to its lower cost and simpler installation. For households with greater hot water needs or limited space, a tankless water heater could be the ideal choice for long-term savings and comfort. Ultimately, it’s about evaluating your lifestyle, home size, and budget to determine which system is best for your household.
When It’s Time For a New Water Heater
When it comes to replacing your water heater, don’t wait until it stops working to search for a new one. It can be an uncomfortable few days for you and your family without hot water. Here are some signs you should be aware of that your water heater might need replacing:
Inconsistent Water Temperatures
If your water heater struggles to maintain a steady temperature, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.
Leaking Tank
Visible leaks around your water heater are a clear sign it’s time for a replacement.
Unusual Noises
Rumbling or banging sounds from your system could indicate sediment buildup or other issues.
Age of the Unit
Depending on your water heater type, the lifespan is generally 8–12 years, but with proper maintenance, you can get 20 years or more.
If your water heater is showing these signs, it could be the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a system that better suits your needs. To switch out your water heater, contact a plumber to evaluate your current system, recommend the best system, and provide you with a quote.
Restore Your Hot Water
Garrett Plumbing has been serving the community for over 70 years, providing reliable plumbing care you can trust. Along with our wide range of services, we offer water heater installation and repair, helping families stay comfortable and functional with dependable hot water systems. When you choose Garrett Plumbing, you’re choosing a team that treats your home like their own. Contact us today for a free in home estimate. Let us restore your hot water and keep your home running smoothly.
