When it comes to choosing a hot water heater for your Calgary home, there are two main options: the traditional standard hot water heater and the more modern tankless hot water heater. Both have their advantages, but understanding the differences between the two is key to making the right decision for your home. Today, we’ll compare standard hot water heaters and tankless systems. By looking at key factors like energy efficiency, hot water supply, and space requirements, we’ll help you choose the best one for your needs.
How Standard Hot Water Heaters Work
A standard hot water heater, also known as a hot water tank heater stores hot water in a large tank. The system constantly heats the water in the tank to maintain a steady temperature. Standard hot water heaters are usually powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity.
The benefits of a standard hot water heater include:
- Lower initial cost: They are more affordable to purchase and install compared to tankless models.
- Familiar technology: These systems are well-understood and widely used, making them a reliable option.
- Simple installation: Replacing an old system is straightforward and requires minimal modifications.
However, they come with standby heat loss. In other words, they waste energy to maintain the temperature of the stored water, leading to higher utility bills.
How Tankless Hot Water Heaters Work
A tankless hot water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, heats water only when needed, providing a continuous supply without the need for storage. As cold water flows through the system, it is heated instantly by either gas or electricity. If you’re installing a gas-powered unit, proper gas fitting is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation. Professional installation helps optimize performance and guarantees that your system meets safety standards.
If you’re thinking about going tankless, consider the following:
- Endless hot water: Ideal for large families or homes with high hot water demand.
- Energy efficiency: Because there’s no standby heat loss, tankless systems are up to 30% more energy-efficient than standard heaters, lowering energy consumption and reducing monthly utility bills.
- Space-saving: These units are compact and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up floor space.
The initial cost of a tankless system is higher. However, the long-term energy savings and extended lifespan (up to 20 years) make the upfront costs worth it.
Which Hot Water Heater Is Right for Your Home?
When choosing between a standard hot water heater and a tankless system, consider the following:
Household Size and Hot Water Demand
For larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms, a tankless water heater works better because it can meet high hot water demand without running out. Smaller households can do fine with a standard water heater.
Budget
If you have a lower budget and need an affordable upfront investment, a standard water heater makes more sense. On the other hand, tankless systems provide long-term savings through energy efficiency and durability.
Space Constraints
Tankless water heaters thrive in homes with limited space, as they take up far less room than traditional tank models. If you’re looking to maximize your utility area or basement space, a tankless unit could be the best choice.
Find the Right Hot Water Heater For Your Home
Deciding between a standard hot water heater and a tankless water heater depends on your household size, hot water needs, and budget. While tankless systems offer endless hot water and long-term energy savings, standard water heaters provide a reliable, budget-friendly option for smaller homes.
At Mr. Mike’s Plumbing, we offer standard and tankless hot water heater installation in Calgary and surrounding areas. We can help you choose the best system for your home and ensure it’s installed for maximum performance. Contact us today for a consultation!