Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters: What’s Best for Your Home?
When it's time to replace your water heater, you’re faced with a key decision: tank or tankless? Both types have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one for your Colorado Springs home depends on your household size, energy goals, and hot water usage.
At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners make smart, energy-efficient upgrades. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which type of water heater is the better fit for your home.
🔁 Traditional Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters are the most common type found in homes. They store hot water in a large tank—typically 40 to 80 gallons—and keep it heated so it’s ready when you need it.
The benefits?
Tank heaters are less expensive to purchase and install upfront. They’re simple, reliable, and often easier to replace with similar models. If your household uses a lot of hot water at the same time—such as multiple showers or laundry loads—a large tank can handle the demand.
The drawbacks?
Once the hot water in the tank runs out, you’ll have to wait for it to refill and reheat. These systems also use more energy overall because they keep water heated constantly, even when you're not using it. On average, tank systems last around 8 to 12 years with regular maintenance.
🚿 Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless, or on-demand, water heaters only heat water when you need it. That means no storage tank and no standby energy loss. These compact units are gaining popularity thanks to their energy efficiency and modern design.
The benefits?
Tankless water heaters provide a virtually endless supply of hot water, which is great for large families or households with high demand. They take up less space, last longer—often up to 20 years—and can help reduce monthly energy bills.
The drawbacks?
Tankless systems have a higher upfront cost and may require upgrades to your home’s gas or electrical systems during installation. If not properly sized, they can struggle to keep up with multiple fixtures running at once.
💡 How to Choose
If keeping costs low is your top priority and your hot water needs are moderate, a tank water heater might be the better fit. But if you're looking for long-term energy savings, endless hot water, and a more compact, modern system, going tankless could be the right choice—especially for growing households or energy-conscious homeowners.
Still not sure? Our experts can evaluate your current setup and recommend the best option based on your home’s needs and your budget.
🔧 Ready for an Upgrade?
Whether you’re building new, replacing an aging unit, or just weighing your options, Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical is here to help you make the right choice.
Contact us today to learn more about tank and tankless water heaters—or to schedule your installation in Colorado Springs.
