Most home uses a conventional water heater. It is consists of an insulated tank that holds about 30 to 50 gallons of water, depending on the size of the tank. It heats and stores the water for usage. A pipe is connected to deliver the hot water to different plumbing fixtures in the kitchen, bathrooms, etc.

A conventional water heater, also known as a storage-tank water heater, can work in either electricity or natural gas as fuel. When it comes to using natural gas in a water heater, you can save almost 50% of the energy than that of electricity. However, installing a water heater that works with natural gas costs more than the one that works in electricity. It also has different features, such as temperature and pressure-release valve that opens when it exceeds the set temperature and pressure level.

Pros of Conventional Water Heater

• This type of water heater has a lower initial cost than a tankless water heater.

• On average, the cost is around $500 to $800, lower by 75% than a tankless water heater.

• Conventional water heater operates simply.

• It has less costly maintenance.

• For problems, repairs are less costly too for conventional water heaters.

A plumber in Charlotte, NC advises everyone to not just look at the pros but on the cons as well. It is important to know the drawbacks so you will have a better understanding of what you are dealing with. Remember, every product has its drawbacks.

Cons of Conventional Water Heater

• This water heater can result in higher utility bills because it stores and reheats the water.

• During winter months, it works harder resulting in even higher electric or gas bills.

• This water needs space on its own because of the tank.

• The tanks cannot be installed outside the house, unlike tankless water heaters.

• You may run out of hot water because the capacity depends on the size of the tank.

• The replacement for this type of water heater is needed more often than tankless ones.

• The life expectancy of a conventional water heater is about half of the life of tankless water heater, basically 10 to 15 years.

Now that you know the pros and cons of a water heater, you will have a better understanding of whether the conventional water heater is the right one for your home. Do not be discouraged by the cons, drawbacks are always there no matter how perfect something may seem. If your home is small and you only have 1 to 2 showers, conventional might be the one for you. Of course, it all depends on different factors: your budget, number of household members, and your place.