Rising energy bills and the constant demand for hot water are everyday concerns for homeowners. No one wants to deal with cold showers or unexpected spikes in utility costs—especially in Texas, where summers are scorching and winters bring their own challenges. Selecting the right water heater isn’t just about convenience; it’s about efficiency, savings, and long-term comfort.
At 72 Degrees Texas, we help homeowners in Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country navigate their options between tank and tankless water heaters. Whether you’re upgrading your system or replacing an old unit, understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice.
Identify the Differences Between a Tanked and Tankless Water Heater
What Is a Tank Water Heater?
Tank water heaters, often called traditional or storage water heaters, are widely used in many homes. They include a large, insulated tank that holds a set amount of heated water, ready for immediate use. Tank capacities typically range from 30 to 50 gallons, depending on what the household requires.
These systems run on gas or electricity, continuously reheating the stored water to maintain its temperature. While this ensures hot water is always available, it also means energy gets wasted, even when no water is being used—a term known as standby heat loss. Though dependable and budget-friendly, tank water heaters do have downsides, like running out of hot water during heavy use.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heaters, or on-demand water heaters, operate differently by heating water only as it’s needed. Instead of storing water, the system activates when water flows through it, using a gas burner or electric element to heat the water instantly.
Since no water is stored, standby heat loss isn’t an issue, making tankless systems more energy-efficient. They also provide a steady stream of hot water, so you won’t run out in the middle of a long shower or while doing multiple chores. However, the system’s capacity might be limited if several fixtures are running at the same time, especially in larger homes.
Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater: Key Comparisons
1. Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
- Tank Water Heaters: Continuously heat water, leading to higher energy use over time.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Only heat water when needed, reducing energy consumption by 24–34% for homes using less than 41 gallons of hot water daily.
A tankless water heater can lead to noticeable long-term savings on energy bills, making it a smart investment for efficiency-minded homeowners.
2. Hot Water Supply: Limited or Endless?
- Tank Systems: Provide a fixed amount of hot water. Once the tank is empty, you have to wait for it to refill and reheat.
- Tankless Systems: Deliver continuous hot water—but their output is limited by system capacity.
For large households where multiple showers, dishwashers, and washing machines run simultaneously, a high-capacity tankless unit or multiple units may be needed.
3. Lifespan & Maintenance
- Tank Water Heaters: Last more than 10 years and require regular maintenance to prevent sediment buildup and corrosion.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Can last 20+ years with proper maintenance, though they may need occasional descaling in homes with hard water.
4. Upfront Cost vs. Long-Term Investment
- Tank Water Heaters: Lower initial cost to install, potentially up to $1,500.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Higher upfront cost to have it installed, but greater energy savings over time.
5. Space Considerations
- Tank Water Heaters: Large and require storage space in a garage, basement, or utility closet.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Compact and can be wall-mounted, making them ideal for smaller homes or space-conscious installations.
Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for Your Home?
The choice between a tank vs. tankless water heater depends on your home’s hot water usage, available space, and long-term efficiency goals. If you’re not sure which system fits your needs, our team at 72 Degrees Texas can help you decide.
Still Unsure? Watch Our Video
To learn more, check out our video on tank vs. tankless water heaters where we break down the benefits of each system and help you choose the best option for your home.
Choosing the Right Water Heater with 72 Degrees Texas
Upgrading your water heater is a big decision, and having the right team on your side makes all the difference. At 72 Degrees Texas, we’ve helped countless homeowners find the perfect balance of efficiency, reliability, and savings.
For even more peace of mind, consider joining our Home Comfort Club—with regular tune-ups, priority service, and discounts on repairs, we handle the hard work so you don’t have to.
Schedule your consultation today! Have more questions? Call 72 Degrees now.
