Hot water is becoming a hot topic for home builders, contractors and architects today. Why? Most homeowners are looking for energy efficient as well as economical ways to live. Water usage has an effect on the energy consumption of a household. In fact, water heating takes up approximately 25% of a household’s monthly expenses.
Deciding on which water tank to install in your home is a big decision. You have to choose one that will benefit you in the long run. It must be able to save you money without compromising its functions.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater is sometimes called an instantaneous water heater or demand-type water heater. This kind of tank provides hot water only when it is required. This does not use a storage tank to produce hot water. Instead, when the user turns on the hot water tap, the cold water will travel to the heating unit using a pipe. An electric or a gas burner will then heat the water.
Tankless Water Heater Pros
You can consider these advantages before you install a tankless water heater in your home:
- In demand supply of hot water. With this type of water heater, you can get access to hot water when you need it. You do not have to wait for the tank to get filled with hot water before you can use it. You have access to an unlimited supply of hot water
- Energy efficiency. A tankless water heater allows you to save on energy costs in the long run. Since the heater provides hot water by the user’s demand, it saves approximately 40 percent off utility bills. It is also 30% more efficient, as it can produce 14% more water.
- Save space. Instead of taking up a huge floor space, this water heater does not require a huge space for it to be installed. Its small size allows it to fit into small spaces in the garage, bathroom or anywhere you wish to install it. It can even be wall-mounted. Its compact size is ideal if you have a small home.
- Long-lasting. Most tankless water heaters can last for twenty up to thirty years. This translates to a decreased need to replace it as you use it over time. However, it is important to take note that hard water may affect the longevity of the heater.
Tankless Water Heater Cons
These are some of the drawbacks when you opt to install a tankless water heater:
- Installation costs. Tankless water heaters can be pricey. Average costs of installing this type of water heater range from $2,000 up to $4,500.
- Waiting time. You will experience “chilly” episodes, especially when you first open the faucet or turn on the shower. Simultaneous use of water during laundry, bath time or washing dishes may cause the heater to have difficulty in keeping up with the demand. This also causes the occasional burst of cold water.
What Is an Upright Water Heater?
Upright water heaters look like big cylindrical metal containers or drums. They are typically installed in the basement or the laundry room. This type of water heater is like a giant drum filled with water. A heating mechanism is installed at the bottom of the drum or inside it. Once the drum is filled, you can enjoy hot water when you turn it on while taking a shower shower or doing the laundry.
Upright Water Heater Pros
If you are thinking about installing an upright water heater, there are some of its advantages:
- Trusted technology. Builders, contractors and households already trust this type of water heater. It works well with every household.
- Budget-friendly. Installing this type of water heater can only cost you around $300. Compared to other water heaters, upright models are usually budget friendly. Purchase and installation will generally not put a huge hole in your wallet.
- High capacity. Water heaters such as this can hold a minimum of 30 gallons. Bigger tanks hold more.
- Inexpensive costs for replacement. When the water heater gets damaged due to wear and tear, replacing it will most likely not cost a lot of money. Average replacement costs for an upright water heater is around $500 up to $800.
Upright Water Heater Cons
The cons for upright water heaters are:
- Takes up too much space. The big metal cylinders of upright water heaters are very bulky. Because of their size, they take up a lot of space. This is not ideal, especially if you have a small house.
- Cannot always meet demand. Before installing this type of water heater, it is important to assess your household’s water consumption. Choosing the wrong tank size may result in inadequate hot water supply.
- Less efficient when it comes to energy use. This kind of water heater is always on. It automatically fills the tank when the water level is low and has preset heating settings. As a result, it consumes more energy or electricity.
The Verdict
Tankless water heaters and upright water heaters both provide what users need. Both have their benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right one will depend on your personal preference, budget and requirements. If you have a budget and do not mind the installation costs, you can opt to choose a tankless water heater. However, if you have budget restraints, you can choose an upright water heater.
To know more about the best tankless water heaters in the market right now, you may check out Your Best Picks.
About the Author
Jeffery Ramson is a professional product reviewer who has worked with some major companies across the years. He currently writes for yourbestpicks.com and is dedicated to delivering the very best when it comes to product reviews for consumers. In his spare time he enjoys traveling.
