Tank & Tankless Water Heater Systems: What’s My Best Choice?

When you’re looking to get a new water heater system, the first thing you should do is learn as much as you can about the different types of heaters so that you can choose the right one. Generally, there are two types of heating units: the tank and tankless variations. These different types have different benefits and downsides, which is why it’s important that you are able to choose one that suits your needs.
That said, here is our guide on how to choose between the tank and tankless variations:

How Much Does a Water Heater Cost?

Before we can go into detail about the tank and tankless water heaters, you need to know how much a typical unit costs. You can find a decent water heater that can handle your day-to-day needs for around $1,000. However, you should keep in mind that such heaters are on the lower end of the spectrum, as decent ones can go for much higher prices. The most balanced options for residential use generally cost around $2,500 to $3,000, so you shouldn’t always go for the cheapest option.

How Long Does a Water Heater Last?

A proper-sized water heater can last up to 20 years with adequate care, but the models that can last that long without becoming highly inefficient are incredibly rare. You can realistically expect a model to last for around 6 to 12 years before it needs to be changed, so keep that in mind when you’re buying a water heater.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Water Heater?

The installation cost is usually more static than the price of the heater itself, as there aren’t that many factors that can make it vary too much. For a standard 50-gallon heater, you can expect to pay around $1,200 to have it installed. That price can turn out to be cheaper or more expensive, depending on the service charge, expertise, and certifications of an installer.

Now that we’ve cleared that up for you, let’s dive into the pros and cons of the tank and tankless variations so that you can make a decision.

Tank Heater

The Pros:

Relatively cheap

Simpler installation process

Able to handle hefty demands for hot water

High-quality technology

The Cons:

Shorter lifespan

Takes up more room indoors

Unsuitable for outdoor use

Not as energy efficient



Tankless

The Pros:

Energy-efficient

Heats up very quickly

More compact

Lasts longer

Can be installed either indoors or outdoors

The Cons:

More expensive

Installation takes longer

Expensive installation costs due to the intricate layout



Can’t handle quite as much water as the tank system

Choosing the Right Installer

Regardless of the type of unit you choose, it’s imperative that you find the right installer for your home to make sure that you don’t end up throwing your money away. The margin for error on such operations are rather high, so it’s important that you work with a reputable and credible service provider. You should look for their qualifications and certifications to see if they are experienced in the work you will hire them to do. While this may not be a foolproof strategy, it can still help ensure that your property will be protected if anything goes wrong during the installation process. If you’re looking for a plumbing service in Denver, CO get in touch with us today! We’re happy to provide a free quotation.