Many homeowners value comfort, space, and long-term savings, which is why a comparison of tankless water heaters vs. traditional models is worth making. In this article, we’ll discuss how each system works and what they cost over time to help you decide which setup better suits your lifestyle. We’ll also discuss the safety and convenience of cutting-edge drinking water technologies in home water purifiers by Wells.
Water-Heating Basics
How a Traditional Tank Water Heater Works
A tank-style heater warms and stores hot water, so when you turn on a tap, the hot water leaves the tank and cold water flows in to be heated for the next use. Because water sits in the tank, the unit cycles on and off to keep it hot, using energy even if you’re not using water.
How a Tankless Water Heater Works
A tankless water heater heats water when you open the tap. Cold water passes across high-efficiency heating elements and exits the unit at a set temperature. There’s no storage, which means no standby energy usage and less storage space needed.
Fuel Sources for Water Heaters
Traditional tank and tankless water heaters can run on electricity or gas, with distinct installation and operational considerations. Electric models are simpler to install, but may require higher amperage. Gas units often need proper venting and gas-line capacity. Hybrid heat-pump tanks are another option for high efficiency in some climates, but they also need space and airflow.
Traditional Tank Water Heaters Pros and Cons
Advantages: Traditional water heaters usually have lower upfront purchase and basic installation costs. Hot water is pre-stored and provides a stable flow for multiple uses.
Considerations: Keeping a tank hot on standby increases utility bills. More space and proper drainage are needed to store the unit. Maintenance is also necessary to address scale buildup and potential bacterial growth in stored water.
Tankless Water Heaters Pros and Cons
Advantages: Tankless water heaters do not use standby energy, saving on energy bills over time. You only heat the water you use. They can also have compact designs, freeing up valuable storage space.
Considerations: Equipment and installation can have a higher initial cost; however, you need to make sure you’re using the right size of unit to suit your household needs.
Installation and Maintenance
There are certain factors to consider when installing and maintaining your water heater:
Space and ventilation: Determine the space for the water heater unit as well as the path for electricity, gas, and ventilation.
Water pressure and flow: Tankless units need adequate inlet pressure and minimum flow to trigger heating.
Codes and rebates: Check local regulations and incentives that may offset costs.
Routine upkeep: Tank water heaters require periodic flushing to reduce sediment and scale. Meanwhile, tankless water heaters need to have the heat exchangers descaled and the inlet screens cleaned every one or two years, depending on water hardness.
Which System Fits Your Lifestyle?
A certified installer can assess your energy source, venting, panel capacity, and flow needs to help you determine the right water heating system. Here are some considerations when deciding to get a tankless vs. a tank water heater:
High-demand households: If you often run two showers, laundry, and the dishwasher, either use the right size of tankless water heater or choose a larger tank water heater for consistent flow.
Condos or smaller spaces: For space-constrained households, a slimmer, wall-mounted tankless unit can free up valuable space without compromising convenience.
From Heating to Drinking
If the benefits of tankless water heating appeal to you, with its advantages of on-demand performance, less stagnation, and more compact form, there’s a parallel in drinking water, another household essential. Wells The One offers drinking water on demand with instant temperature control. Get cold, ambient, or hot water when you need it at the touch of a button. Its innovative design includes a power-saving mode that automatically adjusts the energy consumption based on your usage.
Wells The One uses cutting-edge nanofiltration technology with advanced hygiene engineering, with auto-drain and sterilization to reduce stagnation between dispenses. Its 9-step nanofiltration eliminates 99.99% of bacteria, selected heavy metals, and microorganisms, while retaining healthy minerals for a clean, balanced taste. Its award-winning ultra-compact direct-dispenser unit is just 8.8 centimeters wide, freeing up counter space in any kitchen, while its sleek and stylish design complements any modern kitchen. Contact us to learn more about Wells water purification systems.
