If you’re living in Utah, especially around Bountiful and nearby areas, choosing the right water heater can make a big difference in your comfort, your budget, and your home’s energy efficiency. But with so many options out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming. The biggest question we get here at Rare Breed Plumbing is: “Should I go with a tank water heater or tankless water heater?” It’s a fair question, and the answer depends on your household’s specific needs, usage habits, and priorities.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the tank vs. tankless water heaters debate in simple terms. We’ll look at how both systems work, what their pros and cons are, and what factors you should consider before making your decision. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your old hot water heater, this guide will help you make the best decision for your Utah home.
Understanding The Basics
Before we dive into comparisons, let’s get clear on what we’re actually talking about when we say “tank” or “tankless.”
How Do Traditional Tank Water Heaters Work?
A traditional tank water heater (also known as a storage tank water heater) stores heated water in a large tank, usually between 30 and 80 gallons. It heats water using either gas or electric heating elements and maintains that temperature until you need it. When you turn on your faucet or shower, the hot water comes from the top of the tank while cold water enters at the bottom to refill it.
This means that you have a ready supply of hot water, but once that storage tank runs out, you’ll have to wait for more to be heated.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
A tankless water heater (or “on-demand” water heater) doesn’t store hot water. Instead, it heats water only when you need it. When you turn on the tap, cold water runs through a heat exchanger that heats water instantly using either electric heating elements or a gas burner.
Because they don’t rely on a storage tank, tankless water heaters provide endless hot water—as long as your flow rate stays within the unit’s capacity.
Storage Tank Water Heaters – Pros & Cons
If you’re considering a traditional water heater, here’s a quick look at why many homeowners still go this route. It’s reliable, budget-friendly, and gets the job done.
Pros
- Lower Initial Cost: Tank water heaters are generally cheaper to buy and install. That makes them appealing for homeowners who need hot water fast without a big upfront investment. Whether you’re on a budget or replacing an old system, this is a practical choice.
- Simplicity: Easier and quicker to install, making them a go-to for emergency replacements. Most plumbers can get a tank heater up and running in a day, which means less downtime and hassle.
- Familiar Technology: Most plumbers know how to work with these systems. Repairs and replacements are straightforward, and you’re unlikely to run into specialized parts or unexpected compatibility issues.
Cons
- Limited Water Supply: Once the tank runs out of hot water, you’ll have to wait for it to heat more. If you have a big family or love long showers, this could be a daily frustration.
- Higher Operating Costs: Keeping water heated 24/7 means more energy usage. Your heater burns fuel or uses electricity even when no one’s home.
- Shorter Lifespan: Typically last around 8-12 years. That means you might be replacing it sooner than you think—especially if your household puts a lot of demand on the unit.
- Takes Up More Space: You need space for that large storage tank. It can take up valuable square footage in basements, closets, or utility rooms.
If you value simplicity and affordability, tank models still hold their ground. But it’s worth considering the trade-offs, especially when it comes to space and energy use.
Tankless Water Heaters – Pros & Cons
Thinking of going tankless? These sleek systems are gaining popularity for a reason. They’re compact, smart, and built for efficiency.
Pros
- Energy Efficiency: Since they only heat water on demand, they use less energy. This can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills over time.
- Endless Hot Water: Great for big families or homes with high hot water demand. No more waiting between showers or scheduling loads of laundry around your water heater’s limits.
- Longer Lifespan: Can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. You might pay more upfront, but you’ll likely replace it less often than a traditional unit.
- More Space: Wall-mounted and compact, freeing up room in utility areas. Perfect for smaller homes or if you want to reclaim that bulky corner in your basement.
Cons
- Higher Initial Cost: The unit itself and the installation cost are both higher. It’s a bigger investment upfront, especially if you need system upgrades to support it.
- May Require Upgrades: You might need new gas lines or electrical upgrades. These costs can sneak up on you and add hundreds—or thousands—to the total price.
- Flow Rate Limits: If you run multiple fixtures at once, you might max out the capacity unless you install multiple tankless units. This could mean juggling when you run the dishwasher and the shower.
Tankless heaters bring a lot of modern perks, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Consider how much hot water your home uses at once and what your budget looks like before jumping in.
Storage Tank Water Heaters – Considerations
Not quite sold yet? Let’s dig a little deeper into what makes storage tank models a solid option for many homeowners. Here are the most practical reasons people stick with them.
- Budget: If money is tight right now, tank heaters have lower upfront costs. You’ll spend less at the time of purchase and installation, which is especially helpful during emergency replacements.
- Space: Got room in your basement or utility closet? A large storage tank won’t be a problem. These models aren’t small, but if you have the space, it’s a non-issue.
- Usage Habits: Smaller households that don’t use much hot water may not notice the downsides of limited capacity. If you’re not pushing your heater to its limits, the drawbacks may never show up.
- Fuel Source: If you already have gas lines or electric connections suited for a traditional tank model, installation will be easier and cheaper. No major upgrades needed means faster setup and lower labor costs.
- Replacement Needs: If your old hot water heater just died, a quick and simple replacement might be the way to go. A tank model can be swapped out with minimal fuss, often within a single day.
All in all, if you want a tried-and-true solution without breaking the bank, a storage tank water heater may be your best bet.
Tankless Water Heaters – Considerations
Ready to step into modern water heating? Tankless units come with a few more decisions, but they offer some serious long-term benefits. Let’s look at what should be on your radar.
- Long-Term Savings: Though the initial cost is higher, tankless units have lower operating costs over time. You’re not paying to store and maintain hot water, so your utility bills may take a dip.
- Household Size: Bigger families or homes with high demand for hot water benefit from endless hot water. With the right unit, nobody has to fight over shower time again.
- Energy Usage: If you’re eco-conscious, tankless heaters are more energy efficient. They only work when you need them, which cuts down on waste and helps reduce your carbon footprint.
- Future-Proofing: Planning to stay in your home long-term? A tankless water heater is a solid investment. With proper maintenance, it could outlast two traditional tanks.
- Installation Costs: Be prepared for potential expenses like upgrading your gas line or electrical system. Not all homes are ready for a tankless system out of the gate.
- Temperature Rise: Make sure the unit can handle the temperature rise required for your climate—Utah winters can be brutal, and your system needs to heat very cold water quickly.
If long-term value, efficiency, and convenience matter most to you, a tankless model might be exactly what your home needs.
Are You in Need of a Water Heater for Your Utah Home? Call Rare Breed Plumbing
Still unsure whether a tank or tankless water heater is the right call for your Utah home? Don’t stress. At Rare Breed Plumbing, we specialize in helping homeowners like you figure out the perfect solution.
Our experienced team can evaluate your household’s needs, your existing system, and your budget to recommend the best option—whether that’s a high-efficiency gas tankless water heater or a reliable traditional tank model. We handle everything from assessment and recommendation to full installation and maintenance.
Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We’ll make sure your home stays comfortable, efficient, and supplied with all the hot water you need.
Rare Breed Plumbing is proud to serve Bountiful, UT and the nearby cities, including Sandy, Midvale, Bluffdale, Layton, Kaysville, and West Jordan with professional, honest plumbing services you can count on.
