Get Hot Water Right When You Need It
There’s nothing more frustrating than enjoying a soothing hot shower only to have the water turn ice cold halfway through. If this has happened to you, there’s a good chance your home is equipped with a storage water heater. While these heaters are still common in many homes, tankless water heaters are becoming an increasingly popular choice due to their energy efficiency and convenience. At Waldman Plumbing and Heating, we often help homeowners in Lynn, MA, and the North Shore area understand the key differences between these two systems to make the right choice for their homes.
Whether you’re considering upgrading to a tankless water heater or want to stick with a traditional storage model, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these water heaters, their advantages, and what to consider before installation.
Understanding Storage Water Heaters
Storage water heaters are the traditional option most homeowners are familiar with. They heat and store a fixed amount of water, typically ranging from 20 to 120 gallons. This water is kept warm 24/7, even when no one is using it.
How Storage Water Heaters Work
A storage water heater uses an electric or gas heating element to heat the water stored in the tank. While the tank is insulated to reduce heat loss, some energy escapes through the tank walls—a phenomenon known as “standby heat loss.”
When you use hot water, such as during a shower or while doing dishes, the water in the tank is depleted and replaced with cold water, which is then reheated. This process means the water supply can run out if the demand exceeds the tank’s capacity.
Signs Your Storage Water Heater is Running Out of Capacity
- Cold Showers: Multiple showers or water usage within a short time can deplete the hot water supply.
- Slow Recovery Time: The system takes time to reheat the water, leaving you waiting for your next hot shower.
- Increased Energy Bills: Heating water continuously, even when it’s not being used, leads to higher energy consumption.
Benefits of Storage Water Heaters
Despite their limitations, storage water heaters remain a viable choice for many households. Here’s why:
- Lower Initial Costs: Storage water heaters are generally less expensive to purchase and install.
- Simplicity: They’re easy to use and widely available.
- Sufficient for Small Households: For homes with lower water usage, storage water heaters can effectively meet the demand.
Pro Tip: Check the First-Hour Rating
The first-hour rating on a storage water heater tells you how many gallons of hot water it can deliver in an hour. This is a helpful metric for determining if the heater can meet your household’s needs.
The Rise of Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, have revolutionized how homes get hot water. Unlike their storage counterparts, tankless systems heat water only when it’s needed, providing a continuous supply of hot water without the wait.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows into the tankless system, where a gas burner or electric element heats it instantly. Because there’s no storage tank, you don’t have to worry about running out of hot water.
Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy Efficiency: No standby heat loss means lower energy consumption.
- Unlimited Hot Water: Tankless systems provide a continuous supply of hot water, perfect for larger households or back-to-back showers.
- Space-Saving Design: Compact and wall-mounted, tankless water heaters take up far less space than traditional tanks.
- Long-Term Savings: While the initial cost is higher, the energy savings over time can offset the expense.
Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?
Tankless water heaters are a fantastic choice for many homeowners, but they’re not the best fit for everyone. Here are some factors to consider:
- Household Water Demand: If your home uses hot water in multiple locations simultaneously, you may need a larger tankless system or multiple units.
- Upfront Costs: Tankless water heaters cost more to purchase and install than storage systems.
- Retrofitting Requirements: Installing a tankless system may require upgrading your gas line or electrical system, which can increase the total cost.
Making the Switch: Storage vs. Tankless Water Heaters
Both storage and tankless water heaters have their merits, and the right choice depends on your home’s unique needs. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Storage Water Heater | Tankless Water Heater |
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Energy Efficiency | Moderate (standby loss) | High (on-demand heating) |
| Hot Water Supply | Limited | Unlimited |
| Space Requirement | Larger | Compact |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years | 20+ years |
Why Choose Waldman Plumbing and Heating?
At Waldman Plumbing and Heating, we’ve been serving Lynn, MA, and the North Shore area for decades, providing expert water heater installation, maintenance, and repair services. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a tankless system or replace your existing storage water heater, we’re here to help.
Our team is committed to delivering reliable, high-quality service that ensures your home stays comfortable year-round. We take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and recommend the best solutions for your household.
Ready to enjoy reliable hot water in your home? Contact Waldman Plumbing and Heating today to discuss your water heater options. Whether you’re upgrading to a tankless system or need expert repair for your existing unit, our team has you covered. Call us at 781.780.3184 to schedule your service or consultation.