Hot water is something most of us take for granted — until the shower runs cold or the water heater fails. When it comes time to replace your water heater, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a tankless (on-demand) water heater or stick with a traditional tank-style unit.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on your household’s needs, budget, and long-term goals. At InstallPros, we help homeowners choose and install the best system for their lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of tankless vs traditional water heaters.
How They Work
Traditional Water Heater (Tank):
Stores and constantly heats 30–80 gallons of water in a tank, ready for use at any time.
Tankless Water Heater:
Heats water on demand using gas burners or electric coils — no storage tank needed. Water is only heated as it passes through the system.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Water Heaters
Pros
- Lower Upfront Cost: Traditional water heaters are less expensive to purchase and install, often making them the budget-friendly option.
- Simpler Installation: Most homes are already set up for tank-style heaters, so replacement is straightforward.
- Hot Water Availability: They can deliver large amounts of hot water at once, ideal for simultaneous showers, laundry, and dishwashing.
Cons
- Limited Supply: Once the tank is empty, you must wait for it to refill and reheat.
- Higher Energy Use: The tank continuously heats water, even when you’re not using it (known as standby heat loss).
- Larger Footprint: Tanks take up more space and may not fit easily in smaller homes or utility areas.
- Shorter Lifespan: Typically last 8–12 years, compared to longer-lasting tankless systems.
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Pros
- Endless Hot Water: Since water is heated on demand, you never run out during long showers or back-to-back usage.
- Energy Efficiency: No standby heating; only uses energy when hot water is needed. This can lower utility bills over time.
- Longer Lifespan: Tankless units last 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
- Space-Saving Design: Compact and wall-mounted, freeing up valuable floor space.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduced energy consumption makes them more environmentally friendly.
Cons
- Higher Upfront Cost: Units and installation cost more than traditional tanks.
- Complex Installation: May require upgrades to gas lines or electrical systems.
- Flow Limitations: If multiple appliances demand hot water at once, performance can drop without the right-sized unit.
- Maintenance Needs: Annual flushing and descaling are recommended to prevent buildup, especially in areas with hard water.
Cost Comparison
Traditional Tank Water Heater
- Unit: $500–$1,500
- Installation: $500–$1,000
- Lifespan: 8–12 years
- Operating Costs: Higher due to standby heat loss
Tankless Water Heater
- Unit: $1,000–$3,500
- Installation: $1,000–$3,000 (may require upgrades)
- Lifespan: 15–20 years
- Operating Costs: Lower due to on-demand heating
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose a Traditional Water Heater if:
- You want the lowest upfront cost.
- Your household uses a lot of hot water at once.
- You don’t plan to stay in your home long-term.
Choose a Tankless Water Heater if:
- You want long-term energy savings.
- Space is limited.
- You prefer endless hot water for back-to-back showers.
- You’re investing in your home for the long run.
Why Hire InstallPros for Water Heater Installation?
At InstallPros, we don’t just install water heaters — we help you choose the system that’s right for your household. Our licensed professionals provide:
- Expert consultation to size and select the right water heater.
- Safe, code-compliant installation.
- Gas line and electrical upgrades if needed for tankless units.
- Maintenance services to extend your system’s lifespan.
With InstallPros, you’ll have confidence that your water heater installation is done right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do tankless water heaters really save money?
Yes, over time. They cost more upfront but reduce energy bills because they don’t heat water constantly.
2. Can a tankless water heater supply an entire household?
Yes, but the unit must be sized correctly. Larger homes may require more than one system.
3. How often should I maintain my water heater?
Traditional tanks should be flushed annually. Tankless systems should also be flushed and descaled once a year.
4. How long does installation take?
Traditional units can be installed in 2–4 hours. Tankless units may take 6–10 hours depending on upgrades required.
5. Can InstallPros replace my old water heater with a tankless one?
Absolutely. Our team specializes in both replacement and new installations, ensuring your home is set up for years of reliable hot water.
Final Thoughts
Both tankless and traditional water heaters have their place in modern homes. Traditional units are cost-effective and reliable for large, immediate water demands, while tankless systems provide efficiency, space savings, and endless hot water.
The right choice depends on your budget, household size, and long-term goals. With InstallPros, you’ll get expert guidance and professional installation to make sure your home has the perfect hot water solution.
