Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters

What’s the Difference?

Understanding How Each System Works

Before diving into pros and cons, it helps to understand the basic difference between these two types of systems:

• Tanked Water Heaters
  These store a set amount of hot water (usually 30–80 gallons) in a tank. Water is heated continuously so it’s ready when you turn on the tap. Once the tank is empty, you’ll need to wait for it to refill and reheat.

• Tankless Water Heaters
  Also called on-demand heaters, these systems heat water instantly as it flows through the unit. There’s no storage tank—hot water is delivered continuously, as long as demand doesn’t exceed capacity.

Comparing the Pros & Cons

Which System Suits Your Lifestyle?

Let’s break down the key differences in performance, cost, and energy use:

Energy Efficiency

• Tankless:
  ✔ Heats water only when needed
  ✔ Can be 20–30% more efficient than tank models
  ✔ No standby heat loss

• Tanked:
  ❌ Heats water continuously, even when not in use
  ❌ Higher long-term energy costs
  ✔ Some models are now ENERGY STAR® rated

Winner: Tankless

Upfront & Long-Term Cost

• Tankless:
  ❌ Higher upfront cost for unit and installation
  ✔ Lower monthly energy bills
  ✔ Lasts 20+ years

• Tanked:
  ✔ Lower purchase and install cost
  ❌ Typically lasts 8–12 years
  ❌ Higher energy usage over time

Winner: Tanked for short-term savings, Tankless for long-term value

 Hot Water Supply

• Tankless:
  ✔ Endless hot water—great for long showers or big families
  ❌ May struggle with multiple simultaneous uses (e.g., shower + laundry) unless sized properly

• Tanked:
  ❌ Limited supply based on tank size
  ✔ Handles multiple uses better if tank is large enough

Winner: Tankless (with proper sizing)

Space Requirements

• Tankless:
  ✔ Compact and wall-mounted
  ✔ Great for small homes, condos, or freeing up garage/storage space

• Tanked:
  ❌ Takes up more floor space
  ❌ Needs ventilation and clearance

Winner: Tankless

Maintenance & Repairs

• Tankless:
  ❌ Requires annual descaling in hard water areas like Florida
  ✔ Fewer mechanical parts to fail

• Tanked:
  ✔ Simple maintenance
  ❌ Can corrode or leak with age
  ❌ Anode rod replacements are recommended every few years

Winner: Toss-up, depending on water conditions and upkeep

Which One Should You Choose?

Florida Flush Can Help You Decide

Every home is different, and the best water heater for you depends on:

• Household size and hot water demand

• Available space for installation

• Energy-efficiency goals

• Budget—both upfront and long-term

• Future plans (e.g., home additions or renovations)

At Florida Flush, we assess all of this and help you make the right choice. Whether you prefer the tried-and-true reliability of a tanked system or want to upgrade to a sleek, efficient tankless unit, we’ll handle everything—from consultation to installation.