When you think about hot water for your home, you likely picture a large, cylindrical tank. This tank is often found in a basement or utility room. These tanks are classic models, not the trendy newfangled water heaters. They are tried-and-true old-school options. New, innovative options are now available. You might wonder if it’s foolish to stay loyal to these reliable systems. Let’s explore the reasons these heaters remain popular. We will also highlight some cases where they may not be the best choice anymore.

What’s So Great About a Tank?

Conventional water heaters are popular because they are less expensive initially. Generally, getting and installing a tank-style heater costs less than buying a tankless or heat pump model. If you’re trying to save money or your water heater breaks and needs immediate replacement, this is a significant benefit. Many plumbers are familiar with these systems. It’s usually easy to find someone who can install or repair one. They can also deliver a good amount of hot water at once. If you have a family with several people who need to shower at the same time, a traditional tank heater can often meet that demand. This is especially true if you enjoy filling a large tub.

The Not-So-Great Tanks

There are downsides to traditional tank water heaters. They always hold a large volume of water at a hot temperature. This can lead to higher energy usage over time compared to tankless or heat pump models. Even when you’re not using hot water, the heater must maintain that water at a fixed temperature. This costs gas, electricity, water, or a combination of these to your utility bills. It’s like keeping a pot of water simmering on the stove all day, just in case you want a cup of tea.

However, there may be insufficient hot water. If you use it all, you must wait for your tank to refill and heat up. This process can take time. It is very inconvenient for a large family or a home with high hot water demand. You may need to change the capacity of your tank model as children grow and move out.

Finally, since the tanks hold water, there is always a chance they could leak. A tank could also fail over time, leading to water damage in your home. Routine maintenance, such as draining the tank to remove sediment buildup, can help prolong its life. However, this potential issue should still be considered.

Talk to a plumbing professional. They can give you customized advice for your home and family. If you need help choosing water heater options for your Granada Hills, CA home, call Turbo Plumbing & Rooter.