Traditional Water Heater Tank Versus Tankless

Hot water is a household necessity and one area of efficiency and improvement that is typically overlooked till it no longer works. Over the last decade, advancements in water heater technology and in the delivering of heated water in general, have brought energy efficiency and cost savings to a little thought part in the home. Beyond the traditional standup tank water heater, the new tankless systems offer much more in savings and efficiency while providing on demand hot water.

Traditional tank heaters are usually in the 30-50 gallon range. They are upright and is essentially a glass vessel surrounding by a metal cask. In the center of the tank is a shaft that allows exhaust gasses or heat to be vented from the home. For many years this was the standard type water heater. Found in electric or gas versions, the principal of heating up a vessel of water to a specified principle remains relatively unchanged.

While specific technologies have been applied to make tank heaters safer, more effective and efficient the process is the same. Some of the technologies applied has been better thermostats and safety devices such as electronic ignition. Better gas and flow regulation for gas heaters but in all reality it is the same old heater.

Now, there is the tankless hot water system. Water is piped cold into a combustion chamber that super heats the water quickly and efficiently. It supplies hot water on demand and uses less energy overall. In a tank heater the water is constantly having to be reheated to maintain the temperature for when it is called for. In a tankless system the water is flash heated so it is ready only when called upon. No need for energy to be applied to maintain the temperature.

Tankless systems offer many advantages over tank heaters. Faster, delivers water on demand. Provides overall cost savings as not as much energy is used. Energy is only applied when there is a demand for hot water. Efficient and safe, tankless systems take up less room and have no ability to overheat and burst causing a flood situation in the home. The modern choice is the tankless heating system.

Looking into different water heaters for your Reading property? Call The Plumbing Works today at (610)750-8296 for a water heater installation!