Your water heater can endure for over a decade, so prioritizing energy efficiency during a replacement is crucial. According to ENERGY STAR®, the average American household expends more than $2,000 annually on energy costs, with approximately 13%, or around $260, allocated to water heating.

Water heaters generally fall into two categories: tankless and tank. Below, we delve into the distinctions between these types to aid in your optimal selection for both your home and budget.

Tankless Water Heaters

As the designation implies, a tankless water heater lacks a storage tank. It heats water on demand, thereby significantly enhancing energy efficiency compared to a tank water heater that continuously heats substantial water quantities.

The variety of on-demand water heater we install is a tankless gas water heater. Installing a certified gas model, as endorsed by ENERGY STAR, can lead to energy cost savings of up to 9% compared to a conventional gas tankless water heater.

Five Advantages of a Tankless Water Heater

Here are several additional benefits of installing one:

1. Unending Hot Water: Traditional tank water heaters store between 30 to 50 gallons or more, contingent on size. Once depleted, a waiting period is required for the tank to refill and reheat. In contrast, a tankless water heater provides continuous hot water since it heats on demand.
2. Space Conservation: Tankless water heaters are compact and can be wall-mounted in diverse locations, including closets, thus offering more space than a conventional tank water heater would typically occupy in your basement, utility closet, or garage.
3. Extended Lifespan: With proper maintenance, a tankless water heater can last approximately 10-15 years, potentially doubling the life expectancy of a traditional tank water heater.
4. Reduced Risk of Catastrophic Leaks: At the end of its lifespan, a tank water heater may leak or rupture, causing a significant and costly mess. Since tankless water heaters do not store water, concerns about a leaky tank are eliminated.
5. Enhanced Savings: Opting for an ENERGY STAR-certified gas tankless water heater instead of a conventional gas tank water heater can save a family of four $95 annually, or $1,800 over its lifetime on gas bills.

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters are the most prevalent type of water heaters. They are available as electric or gas models, allowing you to select the fuel source that best suits your home.

These water heaters come in various sizes to meet your household’s needs. Common sizes include:

• 40-gallon water heater
• 50-gallon water heater

Smaller tanks are available, but a household of four typically benefits more from a 40- to 50-gallon tank. Uncertain about the best choice for you? Our plumbers at Express Water Heater & Plumbing Services can help you make the most informed decision and provide expert installation.

Three Advantages of a Tank Water Heater

Here are additional perks of installing one:

1. More Budget-Friendly: Tank water heaters generally have lower installation costs compared to tankless models.
2. Simplified Installation Process: Whether you choose a gas or electric water heater, neither will require modifications to gas lines or electrical systems, as might be necessary with a tankless model.
3. No Minimum Flow Rate: This refers to the amount of water that needs to be heated at once. If your household doesn’t use a significant amount of water simultaneously, a tankless model may not activate. This issue does not arise with tank water heaters, as they do not have a flow rate requirement.

Tankless vs. Tank: Which Should You Choose?

The primary differences between tankless and tank water heaters lie in cost, lifespan, and energy efficiency.

Tankless Water Heaters:

• Generally more expensive
• Longer-lasting
• More energy-efficient
• Require less space
• Offer more installation location flexibility
• Less prone to catastrophic leaks
• May necessitate changes to gas lines or electrical systems

Tank Water Heaters:

• Less expensive
• Shorter lifespan
• Less energy-efficient (though ENERGY STAR models are available)
• Usually do not require gas or electrical upgrades
• Require more installation space

Trust Us for Expert Water Heater Installation in Connecticut

When it’s time for a new water heater, choose the family-owned company that homeowners in Hartford County trust. Choose Express Water Heater and Plumbing.

Express Water Heater & Plumbing Services offers swift and affordable water heater installation in Connecticut and surrounding areas. We proudly install Navien tankless water heaters, renowned for their quality, dependability, and energy efficiency.