Who should buy a tank water heater?
If you have a timeline or budget constraints that prevent you from getting a tankless system, a tank heater may be the way to go. If your home runs strictly on electricity, you have to carefully consider whether going tankless is really worth it. The average household capacity is around 200 amps, which may not be enough to support a tankless electric heater. If you have gas, you have to factor in the costs of venting systems and additional gas lines. According to Energystar.gov, a tankless water heater is probably going to save you (at most) $1,800 over the life of the system. If the extra costs of installing a tankless system are going to outweigh your potential savings, you may want to consider a tank system or a high-efficiency tank system.
Installation:
Tank water heaters are relatively easy to install, and installation typically only takes a few hours. You generally have to install a tank water heater indoors, as they cannot tolerate harsh weather conditions. People often choose inconspicuous locations like closets or garages to install them. However, in older homes especially, you may find a tank water heater in a kitchen. The tanks come in electric, natural gas, and propane models. The gas models will still work during a power outage.
Lifespan:
Between 10 and 15 years
How they work:
Tank water heaters typically hold between 20 and 80 gallons of hot water (around 120 degrees Fahrenheit) in a storage tank. They are fairly large and require a bit of space within your home. But, if you manage to deplete what is in the tank, you have to wait until your water heater produces more hot water.
Benefits:
- The more affordable upfront cost
- Easy installation
- Tried and true system
- In an emergency, you have a freshwater supply in the tank
- You can often install an electric tank water heater without making major changes to your home’s electrical system or purchasing expensive additional equipment
