As a homeowner, you’re faced with plenty of decisions, some are fun, like picking out the perfect kitchen color scheme, and others are more practical, like choosing the right water heater for your home. While it might not be the most exciting choice on your to-do list, selecting the best water heater can have a big impact on your comfort, energy bills, and even your home’s value. From cost and energy efficiency to space considerations and climate suitability, there’s a lot to weigh.Â
To make this decision easier, we’ve broken down the key factors you’ll need to consider, especially for Wisconsin homes. Let’s dive in and find the right fit for you!
Water Heater Comparison at a Glance:
| Consideration | Tankless Water Heater | Traditional Tank Water Heater |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost, but potential savings over time | Lower upfront cost, higher long-term operating costs |
| Energy Efficiency | More efficient, heats water on demand | Less efficient, uses energy to keep water hot constantly |
| Space Considerations | Compact design, saves space | Requires dedicated space for a large tank |
| Climate Suitability | Works well in moderate climates; may need adjustments in very cold areas | Performs consistently across various climates, but may lose efficiency in cold areas |
| Long-term Benefits | 10 -15 years | 6-10 years |
Cost
There are a variety of factors to consider when comparing the cost of tank vs tankless water heaters, from the initial purchase to the utility cost of running them over time. While the upfront price is often the first thing homeowners think about, long-term costs can have an even bigger impact on your budget.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters generally cost more upfront to purchase and install than traditional tank models. The higher price tag is from specialized installation, and sometimes even upgrades to your home’s electrical or gas systems. However, many homeowners find that these upfront costs can be offset by energy savings over time. Since tankless models heat water on demand, they use less energy compared to keeping a large tank of water hot at all times. This means your monthly utility bills may be lower, leading to potential savings in the long run.
Traditional Tank Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters tend to have a lower initial purchase price and are generally less expensive to install. They’re often simpler to set up, which can make them a more budget-friendly choice in the short term. However, because they constantly store and maintain hot water, they can be less energy-efficient, resulting in higher monthly utility bills over time. Additionally, with a shorter lifespan compared to tankless models, replacement costs may add up sooner than you expect.
Energy Efficiency
While energy efficiency is good to consider from a sustainability standpoint, it’s also cost-effective. It’s essentially a two-for-one special, where both options benefit the environment and your wallet.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are designed to heat water only when it’s needed, avoiding the standby heat loss that comes from keeping a tank of water constantly hot. This means they tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional tank models. Many tankless models even come with features that allow you to set your preferred water temperature, which helps reduce wasted energy. For Wisconsin homeowners, where energy costs can fluctuate with the seasons, this on-demand approach can lead to lower utility bills and a more efficient home.
Traditional Tank Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters keep a large volume of water hot and ready to use at all times. While this can be convenient for families with high hot water demands, it also means they’re constantly using energy, even when the tap is not running. This standby heat loss can lead to higher energy bills over time, especially during the long Wisconsin winters when keeping that tank hot becomes even more important.
Space Considerations
In some homes, every inch counts, so space considerations are crucial when selecting the right water heater for your home.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are known for their compact and versatile design. They can be installed on walls, in closets, or even outdoors, freeing up valuable floor space that would otherwise be taken up by a bulky tank. Homeowners in tight floor plans or multi-family homes often find that tankless models save them significant space, sometimes enough to repurpose a small closet or utility area. Additionally, tankless units come in different sizes and can be scaled to meet the demands of any residential building. Their flexibility in installation locations means they can be tucked away in less obtrusive areas, giving you more room to work with inside your home.
Traditional Tank Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters, by contrast, require a dedicated space in your home for installation. These units typically occupy a significant footprint, which can be a challenge in smaller homes, apartments, or multi-family buildings. While some homeowners have basements or utility rooms that can accommodate a large tank, others may find that the space requirement limits their options. Even though tanks come in various sizes, they can’t match the space-saving versatility of tankless systems, making them less ideal when space is at a premium.
Climate Suitability
Across the United States, homeowners need to consider which water heater best fits their climate. For Wisconsin homeowners, the biggest consideration is ensuring a reliable supply of hot water to get through the cold winter months.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters perform well in moderate climates and can certainly be a great option for many Wisconsin homes. However, because they heat water on demand, extremely cold incoming water temperatures in winter can sometimes impact their performance. This might mean that your system needs to work harder or may require adjustments to maintain the desired hot water output. Fortunately, with proper installation and sizing, many tankless units can be equipped with features to help handle Wisconsin’s chilly winters. Consulting a professional is a great way to ensure your system is properly designed to keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the year.
Traditional Tank Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters have long been a reliable choice in cold climates like Wisconsin. Since they store a large volume of pre-heated water, they’re less affected by drops in incoming water temperature during the winter months. This makes them a dependable option for consistent hot water, even when temperatures plunge. However, because they maintain a constant hot water supply, they can be less energy-efficient, especially during the long heating season when standby heat loss is greater. Still, for many homeowners, the consistent performance of a tank water heater is a comforting choice when facing Wisconsin’s frigid winter days.
Long-term Benefits
When making any investment in your home, you want it to last and provide ongoing value. A water heater is no exception. Understanding the lifespan, maintenance needs, and overall reliability of both tankless and traditional tank water heaters can help you choose the system that will serve your home best for years to come.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are known for their long lifespans, often exceeding 20 years with proper maintenance. They’re designed with replaceable parts, which means you can usually repair or upgrade individual components instead of replacing the entire unit. This flexibility helps extend their overall lifespan and makes them a great long-term investment for homeowners looking to maximize the benefits of their system. With regular maintenance, a tankless unit can provide reliable, energy-efficient hot water for decades.
Traditional Tank Water Heater
Traditional tank water heaters generally have a shorter lifespan, typically around 10 to 15 years. Because they continuously heat and store water, they can be more prone to issues like leaks or corrosion over time. When a tank fails, it often needs a full replacement, which can add to long-term costs. While tanks are easier to install and repair initially, they may require more frequent replacements than tankless models. However, with regular maintenance and care, a traditional tank water heater can still provide many years of reliable service.
Choose the Right Water Heater with Confidence
Choosing the right water heater for your Wisconsin home is an important decision that balances cost, energy efficiency, space, climate, and long-term benefits. Whether you’re leaning toward the efficiency of a tankless system or the reliable performance of a traditional tank model, Watters Plumbing is here to help. Our experts can guide you through your options, address any questions you may have, and help you find the best solution for your family’s needs.
Visit our Water Heater Services page for more details, or learn more about Tankless Water Heaters. When you’re ready, give us a call at 920-886-8800 or contact us online to find the perfect fit for your home!
