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If it’s time to upgrade or replace your water heater, you have two common options: tank or tankless. Since this is a long-term investment in your home, you want to be confident you’re buying the right product for your needs. Each has its benefits, from the easily-fixable heat pump in the tank model to the space-saving aspect of the tankless, but by understanding both, you’ll be able to make the most informed decision about what you’re purchasing.

Pros & Cons of Popular Water Heaters

Tank

Tank water heaters are the most common and recognizable units. They typically have a cylindrical shape, run off natural gas or electricity, and store water warmed by a heat pump until it’s ready to be used. Attached piping connects directly to your plumbing system and then transports the water to whichever faucet in your home you’ve activated.

These units are sometimes preferred for their less expensive upfront costs. Because this style of water heater has been around longer, maintenance and repairs can also be cheaper. However, since it takes more energy to keep the water in the tank warm around the clock, your utility bills are likely to be higher. Additionally, these systems are relatively large, and if used up, the hot water may take time to replenish.

Tankless

heat pumpThe most noticeable benefit of tankless water heaters is that they take up far less space. Instead of using a heat pump and tank, they use burners to heat water as it passes through to the piping. They can also be powered by gas or electricity and distinguish themselves by being more energy efficient than tank heaters. However, efficiency comes at a higher initial cost. They’re the better long-term investment, though, as they last much longer than tank heaters, and utility savings will eventually outweigh the price-tag. There is also not a limit to the amount of hot water this style of heater can produce.

 

If you still can’t decide which is right for your home, or if you are interested in having a water heater installed, turn to the professionals at Mill Creek Heating in Turner, OR. They’ve offered comprehensive heating and air conditioning services since 2003, and whether you need a new unit installation, heat pump repair, or are interested in exploring geothermal energy, they can assist. Visit them online to learn more about their services and connect on Facebook for regular news and updates. If you want to set up an appointment, call (503) 749-1000 today.

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