Water Heaters & Tankless Water Heater
Serving Sauk, Columbia, Adams and Juneau Counties
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Water Heaters & Tankless Water Heater Installation
Water heaters are essential household appliances, providing hot water to showers, dishwashers, sinks, and other fixtures. Traditional storage water heaters maintain a reservoir of heated water, while tankless models heat water on demand as it flows through the unit. Tankless systems have grown in popularity due to their energy efficiency and compact design. Both types offer distinct advantages, maintenance needs, and life expectancies.
When Should I Replace My Water Heater?
The typical lifespan of a conventional tank water heater ranges from 8 to 12 years. In contrast, tankless water heaters can last over 20 years with proper maintenance. Beyond age, replacement may be necessary when the cost of repairs exceeds the cost of a new unit or when the system begins to show signs of failure, such as inconsistent heating, strange noises, or leaks. For a more precise determination, review your unit’s warranty or consult a qualified professional.
What Size Water Heater Does My Home Need?
Selecting the appropriate water heater size depends on the number of occupants, household water usage, and the number of hot water fixtures. General guidelines for conventional tank water heaters are as follows:
- 1–2 people: 30-gallon tank
- 2–4 people: 38–40-gallon tank
- 2–5 people: 47–50-gallon tank
- 5 or more people: 55-gallon or larger tank
Tankless water heaters offer the advantage of continuous hot water and are sized based on flow rate rather than storage capacity. For a typical household, a flow rate between 7 to 9 gallons per minute (GPM) is generally sufficient.
What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?
While conventional tank water heaters remain common in many households, tankless water heaters are rapidly gaining popularity due to their efficiency, space-saving design, and long-term value. Unlike traditional models that store and continuously heat a set volume of water, tankless water heaters operate on demand, heating water only as it is needed. This allows for a continuous supply of hot water but also eliminates the risk of running out during peak usage.
Tankless systems are exceptionally energy efficient because they avoid the standby heat loss associated with stored water. They also offer greater longevity, typically lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance, compared to an average lifespan of 10 years for conventional units.
Another benefit of tankless water heaters is their compact size. On average, these units measure approximately 28 inches high, 20 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, making them an ideal solution for homes with limited space.
Tankless water heaters generally require less frequent servicing. While traditional models often need annual—or even biannual—maintenance, tankless units can perform efficiently for up to two years between service intervals, depending on the hardness of the water in your area.