Tank vs. Tankless | Which Water Heater is Best For You?

Buzzell • April 22, 2025

While owning your home has a host of benefits, it also has its downsides. One of them being the fact that homeowners have to make tough decisions on big purchases. One common purchase for homeowners is deciding what kind of water heater they’ll need once it’s time for a replacement. It can be a daunting task, because buying a water heater is not only an expensive purchase, but a commitment as well.


Water heaters can last well into a decade, with some even lasting 20 years. So, it’s not a decision that’s taken lightly. Let us help you determine which one’s the best option by breaking down the two main types: tank and tankless water heaters. By evaluating their pros and cons, you’ll have a better idea of which is right for your home. 


Tank Vs. Tankless water heaters | A comparison


Tank Water Heaters


Pros: 

  • Less expensive –  Tank heaters have a relatively straightforward design, which makes them easier to install, especially in older homes with older plumbing and electrical. Because they are easier to install, less labor is required, making their initial installation cheaper than tankless water heaters.


Cons: 

  • Limited heater water – Because the tanks can only hold a certain amount of water, homeowners can run out of hot water. This may be a problem for larger families, especially if your tank isn’t big enough to accommodate the amount of water being used in the home.
  • Requires more space – Traditional tank water heaters take up more space because they need to store a large volume of heated water, typically between 30 to 80 gallons. This makes them less ideal for smaller homes, apartments or utility rooms where floor space is limited. 
  • Shorter lifespan than tankless – Tank water heaters typically last between 6 to 13 years, depending on usage and maintenance. This is significantly shorter than tankless models, which can often last 20 years or more. For homeowners looking for a longer-lasting investment, a tankless system may offer better long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.


Tankless Water Heaters


Pros: 

  • Unlimited heated water – Because they don’t have tanks, tankless water heaters can produce an unlimited amount of water. This may be better for large families who tend to use more hot water for showers and cleaning. 
  • Energy efficient – Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient, which means they use less water than tank heaters. This is not only more environmentally friendly, but it saves homeowners on monthly utility bills.
  • Requires less space – Tankless water heaters require less space, making them easier to store in your smaller homes, apartments and closets.
  • Longer lifespan – Tankless heaters last 15 to 20 years, which is several years longer than tank water heaters.


Cons: 

More expensive – Because tankless water heaters are more complex in their design, they take longer to install. With higher labor costs, the overall installation is more expensive than it would be if it was a tank heater. 


So, what’s the best option for homeowners? 


While tankless water heaters offer plenty of advantages, they’re not always the perfect fit for every home. Although they typically come with more benefits than traditional tank models (like improved energy efficiency and endless hot water) the right choice ultimately depends on your household’s needs, lifestyle and budget.

If you're working with a tighter budget or have lower daily hot water demands, a traditional tank water heater might be the smarter, more cost-effective option. However, if you have more flexibility and are looking to lower your long-term utility costs, a tankless may be the better option for you. 


Need a water heater installed? We’re here to help!


If you’re looking for help installing a water heater, Buzzell Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is standing by! Located in Warner Robbins and Macon, we proudly serve the middle Georgia area.


Our team of dedicated plumbers can install both tankless and tank water heaters. For our tank heaters, we have a range of sizes including 40, 50 and 80 gallon tanks. To schedule a visit, give our team a call at 478-209-3106. To learn more about our other services including HVAC repairs and installation, visit our website by clicking the link here. 


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