If your water heater is failing and you’re tired of chilly showers, there are a couple of different water heater replacement options to consider for your home. Traditional (tank) water heaters have a large water storage tank, where water is heated and stored until you have a shower or turn on the hot water tap. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand using gas or electric coils rather than storing hot water for later use.
At Squeak’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air, our trusted plumbing experts can help you choose the most cost-effective, energy-efficient water heater for your home’s unique needs. We install both tank and tankless water heaters in Denver and surrounding South Platte-area communities. Learn the differences between a tank vs. tankless water heater, the pros and cons of each, and which type is best for your Denver-area home.
Overview of Tankless Water Heaters
Explore the pros and cons of tankless water heaters and why many homeowners in the Mile-High City are making the switch.
Tankless water heaters offer many benefits over tank water heaters, such as:
- Better energy efficiency: You may save up to 24% to 34% on your energy bills when you upgrade to a tankless model.
- Nearly endless hot water: Tankless water heaters heat the water on demand, so there’s no risk of running out of hot water when you need it most.
- Smaller size: Without the storage tank, the water heater takes up much less space in your home.
- Low maintenance: A yearly maintenance appointment is all you need to keep your tankless water heater running smoothly. A plumber flushes away mineral buildup and ensures all parts are working efficiently.
- Longer lifespan: How long do tankless water heaters last? A typical tankless heater lasts 10 to 20 years, compared to the average eight to 12 years of a tank water heater.
- Excellent for cold climates: Tankless water heaters work well in Colorado winters because they’re built to handle the coldest incoming water.
- Ideal for smaller homes and condos: Urban residents living in condos, townhomes, and smaller homes will benefit from a compact, efficient tankless water heater.
A few drawbacks to choosing these energy-efficient water heaters in Denver include:
- Higher upfront cost: Tankless water heaters cost more than traditional models, making them a prohibitive choice for some homeowners.
- Complex installation: Tankless water heater installation may be complex, taking a full day or longer. You also might need to upgrade your electrical system or gas line to accommodate the new water heater, especially in an older home.
- Not ideal for large households: If too many people try to use hot water at once, your household may experience reduced water flow or a drop in temperature.
Overview of Traditional Water Heaters
Traditional tank water heaters also have benefits and drawbacks to consider when choosing between energy-efficient water heaters in Denver.
Some of the benefits of choosing a tank water heater include:
- More affordable upfront cost: A tank water heater is usually less expensive, saving you money on the initial cost of replacement.
- Simpler installation: Traditional tank water heater installation is often easier than a tankless model because it’s the standard throughout the US. You’ll likely have the power and the hookups you need without altering your home.
- Better for bigger households: Tank water heaters typically store 40 to 50 gallons of hot water at a time, making them a good choice for the best water heater for large families.
The drawbacks to a tank water heater include:
- Running out of hot water: Once you use all the hot water in the tank, you have to wait for it to heat up again.
- Hard water issues: The Denver area has moderately hard water, which can cause sediment to accumulate in the tank over time, reducing the unit’s efficiency and lifespan.
- Higher energy use: It takes a lot of energy to heat and store that much water at a time.
- Needs more space: Water heater tanks can be bulky and take up a large amount of space in your basement, closet, or utility room.
- Heat loss: During the frosty Colorado winter, the tank loses more heat, so the unit has to work harder to provide hot water.
Comparison Factors
So, which is the best water heater for Denver homes when choosing between traditional water heaters vs. tankless models? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Consider the following comparison factors:
- Cost: Tankless water heaters have a higher initial cost, but lower operating costs. Traditional water heaters are cheaper up front but cost more in the long term.
- Energy efficiency: Energy-efficient water heaters in Denver can save you hundreds on your utility bills. Tankless models are typically 80% to 98% efficient, while traditional models are 60% to 70% efficient.
- Space: Tankless models are wall-mounted and smaller, which saves space, while traditional heaters require more space.
- Lifespan: Tankless water heaters last 15 to 20 years, while traditional ones last about eight to 12 years.
- Household size: Tankless water heaters suit smaller households with one to three people, while traditional water heaters are better for households of four or more people.
- Denver climate: Tankless water heaters may perform better in Denver’s cold winters, while traditional models may struggle with the area’s moderately hard water.
Denver-Specific Considerations
When choosing between tankless vs. traditional water heaters in Denver, it’s also important to consider the following:
- Cold winter weather increases hot water demand, so you may need a higher-capacity tankless water heater.
- Households with hard water require regular water heater maintenance, such as descaling for tankless water heaters and flushing for traditional water heaters, to prevent sediment buildup.
- Local incentives are available to Denver homeowners, such as Xcel Energy home rebates for energy-efficient tankless models.
- Given the area’s high altitude of around 5,280 feet, gas-powered water heaters may need adjustments to improve efficiency.
Contact Squeak’s for Water Heater Replacement Services Today
Which water heater is better for your home — tank or tankless? At Squeak’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air, our local plumbing professionals will help you choose between tankless vs. tank water heaters, providing you with the helpful information you need to make an informed decision. Contact us today to schedule your water heater replacement services in the Denver area.
