We won’t try to pretend that we think tankless water heaters are anything less than a great idea. These systems make a superb alternative to the conventional storage tank water heater (the sort that most people think of when they hear the words water heater) for a number of reasons.

• They only heat water when a tap turns on requesting it, so they consume much less water that a storage water heater that must keep a supply of water warm regardless of whether anyone needs it.
• Because they only heat water “on demand,” tankless water heaters will never run out of a hot water supply.
• Tankless water heaters can last longer than storage water heaters, giving homeowners plenty of time to reap the benefits of their high energy efficiency.

There are more advantages, but these three are enough to prompt the question: “Why would anybody choose to go with an option aside from a tankless system?” Well, there are some reasons.

Why a storage tank system is sometimes the better choice

No two households are the same, and that includes water use. Not all homes will receive the same benefits from going tankless, and in certain situations staying with the tried-n-true storage tank water heater is a better option.

Price is a major consideration. Although over the long-term a tankless system will save money, it does cost more to install initially. This higher price may not fit in with your current budget plans, in which case a storage tank water heater will certainly suffice.

Tankless systems do suffer from some limitations that you will need to think about. They are slower to deliver hot water to taps since they must first heat it up. A storage water heater can run out of its hot water supply, but it also delivers hot water to the tap very fast. This is not only more convenient, it also creates less water waste since people won’t have to let so much water go down the drain while waiting for it to warm up.

Finally, for large households where multiple taps are often on at once, a tankless water heater can lose its energy efficiency quickly. If a storage tank is sized correctly, it should supply a home with sufficient water for everyone.

Do you need help choosing a water heater for your home? Just call Lifeline Plumbing, Inc. We serve Elgin, IL and the surrounding areas.