The average water heater lasts six to 13 years. Towards the end of its life, it will start needing more frequent water heater repairs, which should turn your thoughts towards its eventual replacement. Homeowners now have the option of a traditional tank water heater or a tankless one. The guide below explores their differences so you can make an informed purchase.

Tank

Storage tank water heaters usually hold 30-50 gallons of water at a time, keeping it warm so that when you try to take a shower or wash dishes, it can deliver hot water to you. As the primary method used for decades, they have a lower upfront cost and a straightforward design that makes maintenance and water heater repairs simple.

However, these large tanks do take up space. You may need to dedicate a closet in your home or a corner in the garage or basement to store it. These units can also be expensive to operate because they’re constantly heating and reheating water. Costs go up if they’re kept in a poorly insulated area in winter.

Tankless

Tankless water heaters use a high-powered heat exchanger to heat water as it passes through the mainline and into your plumbing system. They can run on gas or electric, and since they only heat hot water after it has been requested—rather than holding it in a tank—they’re highly efficient. These units can last 20-30 years with proper care and are small and compact. They often only take up a small amount of wall space.

These units are more expensive initially, though the cost savings on utility bills will eventually cover the price. However, they are also more complex, making water heater repairs less straightforward. They may also have trouble meeting your needs if you often use several appliances requiring hot water at the same time.

Whether you’re purchasing a new tank or just need water heater repairs, contact Fast Flow Plumbing & Drain. This New Braunfels, TX, plumber offers a variety of services to maintain home systems, including drain cleaning and plumbing repairs. You can learn more about the company on their website. Call (830) 312-8822 to schedule a consultation.