Types of Water Heaters – Pros & Cons

plumber checking a water heater
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Choosing the right water heater for your needs can be confusing. We are here to break it down for you and help you decide the most cost efficient and effective water heater for you.

Types of Water Heaters

• Tank Based Water Heater
• Tankless Water Heater
• Indirect Water Heater

Tank Based Water Heater

Pros of Tank Based Water Heaters

A tank based water heater is the traditional water heater. It is less expensive than the other types of water heaters in both installation, use, and maintenance. This traditional water heater is usually best for families who are on a budget since you get more hot water than a tankless water heater.

Cons of Tank Based Water Heaters

One major con of a tank based water heater is you could run out of hot water if you are the last to take a shower since the system takes about 1-2 hours to recharge. These types of water heaters also potentially have a shorter lifespan than others. Some need to be changed as often as every 6 years since they have been known to rust the bottom of the unit causing a leak or the scale breaks.

Tankless Water Heater

Pros of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters do not require a tank to hold water, therefore there is less chance of a leak. These tankless water heaters take up much less space than a tank-based water heater. This is usually the most convenient option for people since it makes hot water on demand. As a result, there is no time delay to create more hot water so you won’t run out.

Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

A con of tankless water heaters is that they might not create water to your desired temperature. Some tankless water heaters only provide a consistent temperature if you are maxing out the hot water system regularly. You may find that the water is hotter during the initial use of the tankless water heater, than when it is used at its’ peak.

Indirect Water Heater

Pros of Indirect Water Heaters

An indirect water heater uses a boiler or main furnace to heat water that is circulated through a heat exchanger in the storage tank. These systems work hand in hand with forced air systems and hydronic or radiant floor heating as well. This type of water heater takes energy from an existing power source, therefore making this a very cost-effective system over time. Since they have fewer parts, there is much less maintenance to be one on the system.

Cons of Indirect Water Heaters

If you live in a home where very little hot water is needed, then indirect water heaters might not be for you since you will still need a tank of at least 30 gallons. These water heaters have a limited amount of water supply as well.

Indirect Water Heater Installed by Hawthorne Mechanical Contractors

Tank Based Water Heater Installed by Hawthorne Mechanical Contractors

Indirect Water Heater Installed by Hawthorne Mechanical Contractors

Call us today and we can help you decide the best water heater option for you!

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