Electric Water Heater vs Electric Tankless: Which is the Better Choice for Your Home?

When it comes to providing hot water for your home, you have two main options: electric water heaters and electric tankless water heaters. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. In this blog post, we’ll compare electric water heaters vs. electric tankless water heaters in terms of efficiency, cost, lifespan, and more. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which type of water heater is right for you.

Efficiency: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters are much more efficient than electric water heaters. Electric tankless water heaters only heat water when you need it, so there’s no standby heat loss. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, constantly heat water, even when you’re not using it. This can lead to significant energy waste.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electric tankless water heaters can be up to 30% more efficient than electric water heaters. This means that you could save a significant amount of money on your energy bills by switching to an electric tankless water heater.

Cost: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install than electric water heaters. However, they can save you money on your energy bills over time. The upfront cost of an electric tankless water heater can be anywhere from $500 to $2,000. The installation cost can be another $500 to $1,000. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, typically cost between $300 and $1,000 to purchase and install.

Lifespan: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than electric water heaters. Electric tankless water heaters can last for up to 20 years, while electric water heaters typically last for 10 to 15 years. This is because electric tankless water heaters do not have a tank that can rust or corrode.

Flow Rate: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters have a lower flow rate than electric water heaters. This means that you may not be able to get as much hot water from an electric tankless water heater as you would from an electric water heater. However, the flow rate of an electric tankless water heater is usually sufficient for most homes.

Size: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters are much smaller than electric water heaters. Electric tankless water heaters can be mounted on a wall, which can free up valuable floor space. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, are typically large and bulky. They need to be placed on the floor, and they can take up a lot of space.

Installation: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters are more difficult to install than electric water heaters. Electric tankless water heaters require a dedicated electrical circuit, and they need to be properly vented. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, are relatively easy to install. They can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet, and they do not require any special venting.

Maintenance: Electric Water Heater vs. Electric Tankless

Electric tankless water heaters require less maintenance than electric water heaters. Electric tankless water heaters do not have a tank that needs to be drained and cleaned. They also do not have any anode rods that need to be replaced. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, require regular maintenance. The tank needs to be drained and cleaned every few months, and the anode rod needs to be replaced every few years.

Which Type of Water Heater Is Right for You?

The best type of water heater for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient and space-saving water heater, then an electric tankless water heater is a good option. If you’re looking for a more affordable and easy-to-install water heater, then an electric water heater is a good option.

Takeaways: The Battle of the Water Heaters

Electric water heaters and electric tankless water heaters are both good options for providing hot water for your home. However, each type of water heater has its own advantages and disadvantages. Electric tankless water heaters are more efficient, but they are more expensive to purchase and install. Electric water heaters are less efficient, but they are more affordable and easier to install. Ultimately, the best type of water heater for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between an electric water heater and an electric tankless water heater?
An electric water heater stores hot water in a tank, while an electric tankless water heater heats water on demand.
2. Which type of water heater is more efficient?
Electric tankless water heaters are more efficient than electric water heaters.
3. Which type of water heater is less expensive?
Electric water heaters are less expensive than electric tankless water heaters.
4. Which type of water heater has a longer lifespan?
Electric tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than electric water heaters.
5. Which type of water heater is easier to install?
Electric water heaters are easier to install than electric tankless water heaters.
6. Which type of water heater requires less maintenance?
Electric tankless water heaters require less maintenance than electric water heaters.
7. Which type of water heater is best for a small home?
Electric tankless water heaters are best for small homes.
8. Which type of water heater is best for a large home?
Electric water heaters are best for large homes.
9. Which type of water heater is best for a family with multiple children?
Electric water heaters are best for families with multiple children.
10. Which type of water heater is best for a vacation home?
Electric tankless water heaters are best for vacation homes.