You've heard of a tankless water heater, but you've also heard of a classic water heater that has a holding tank. What's the difference between these two appliances? Which one is best for your needs? Who do you hire to install one of these appliances in your home?

Whether you need a new water heater in your home or you just want to know what the best appliances are on the market today, you should know what a tankless water heater is compared to a traditional one. Learn some of the things you should know about your water heater options here.

What's the difference?

Basically, the main difference between a tankless water heater and a traditional water heater is how the water is stored. In a traditional water heater, several gallons of water are kept in a holding tank at all times, being kept hot by electricity or gas. As the hot water runs out, the user has to wait until the tank is replenished and the water is heated to get hot water again.

A tankless water heater only heats up water as it's needed, using a heat exchanging device to heat and get the hot water to the user. Since the water isn't heated until the user wants it, energy is only being used for the unit as hot water is being used up.

Both water heaters have the same purpose in the home: to provide consistently hot water for bathing, doing laundry, washing dishes, and other needs. The traditional water heater is the more commonly found water heater in properties.

Which one is better?

So, which is better, a tankless water heater or a traditional water heater? In the end, it depends on what you need in a water heater. If you want an energy-efficient way to use hot water and want hot water instantly when you turn the faucet, then a tankless water heater is your best option. If, however, you don't have a lot of money to spend, energy savings aren't your largest concern, and you use a lot of hot water in a day due to your family size or other factors, then a traditional water heater might be best for you.

Who do you hire to do the install?

It doesn't matter whether you buy a tankless water heater or a traditional one, you should always have the appliance professionally installed by your plumber or another licensed professional. Failure to do so can result in a faulty appliance or can lead to damage to your property.

To learn more, contact a tankless water heater service in your area.

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