Water Heaters: Tank or Tankless?

Water Heaters

While the energy efficiency and quality of some residential water heaters has increased over the years, the different types of available water heaters has not, and most fall into one of two categories - those with tanks and those without. Water heaters with holding tanks have been available for decades and are still the most commonly used option. They use electricity, gas, or solar power to heat water and store it in an insulated tank until there is a demand for the hot water from a faucet or appliance, which is connected to the home's water heater by the plumbing system.

Tankless water heaters do not store hot water in a tank. Rather, they instantly produce hot water when there is a demand for it. Most homes can use either type of water heater, but if your are switching from one type to another, some retrofitting may be necessary.

Water heaters can also be incorporated into your home's heat system. For example, a single boiler unit could supply hot water for an in-floor radiant heat system, and meet all of the home's other hot water needs. When choosing a water heater, you should consult a qualified HVAC contractor or plumber to determine which type is most appropriate for your home and specific needs.