Choosing Between Tankless and Tank Type Water Heaters

There are two main categories of water heaters available: tankless water heaters and tank type water heaters. Tankless water heaters are also known as on-demand water heaters as they produce hot water only when the tap is opened. Each of these types of water heaters offers a number of advantages and disadvantages that you should be aware of prior to making a purchase.

Based out of Bastrop, TX and Austin, TX, Austen Plumbing Company offers a wide range of plumbing solutions, including the installation and maintenance of water heaters, garbage disposals, water softeners, and other plumbing appliances and fixtures throughout the home. If you are interested in purchasing a new water heater or require replacement of your existing water heater, our qualified personnel will assist in selecting the correct appliance to meet your particular needs. To speak with our expert plumbers, contact us in Travis County.

How do Tankless and Tank Type Water Heaters Work?

Both tankless and tank type water heaters provide hot water throughout your home. The main difference between these two types of water heaters is in how they produce the hot water. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, providing an endless supply of hot water, where as tank type water heaters heat and maintain temperature of the water inside of a storage tank.

Traditional Tank Type Water Heaters
Tank type water heaters use a tried and tested technology. This type of water heater has been available for a many years and was the standard in many homes. In tank type water heaters, a storage tank or reservoir is used as a place to heat and to store water once it is heated. The water is maintained at a preset temperature, which can typically be adjusted between 110 and 140 degrees. To keep this temperature constant in the tank at all times, the burner, or electric elements are activated via thermostats.

Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, or on-demand water heaters, use new technology to supply hot water only when it is needed. As the name says, these water heaters do not use a tank for water storage. Tankless water heaters are comparatively smaller, and have built in heating elements or burners that instantly heat water as it passes through the system. This particular water heater is operational only when there is a requirement for hot water. Tankless water heaters have the capacity to supply hot water at a quantity that usually varies, depending on the system that is being utilized. Gas fueled tankless water heaters produce heated water more efficiently than their electric counterparts.

Pros & Cons of Tank Type and Tankless Water Heaters

Advantages of Tank Type Water Heaters:		Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters:
Initial purchase cost is lower than tankless water heaters Uses a reliable and time tested technology Can be adapted easily to applications that require solar pre-heating		Since the technology is on-demand, energy is not wasted and operating costs are lower Smaller in size than tank type water heaters and can be installed in a variety of places No limit to hot water supply The risk of flood and water damage is minimal as there is no large storage tank to rupture
Disadvantages of Tank Type Water Heaters:		Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters:
Water must be heated and maintained at a set temperature even when not in use, which uses extra energy Requires more space Water supply is limited, although many different tank sizes are available There is a possibility of damage if the water storage tank ruptures or leaks		Initial cost is much higher compared to Tank Type water heaters The installation can be more expensive, especially if converting from a tank type water heater Flow of hot water can be restricted depending on the unit size

Contact Austen Plumbing to Install and Maintain Your Water Heaters

If you are considering a tankless or a tank type water heater for your home, there are a number of important considerations to make. At Austen Plumbing Company, we can help you compare the types of water heaters available and make the best selection for your needs. We also offer expert water heater installation, maintenance, and repair to ensure your water heater remains in working condition.

To learn more about water heaters and our services, contact us today in Travis County.