Are you tired of the constant struggle to get enough hot water at home? The battle to maintain a steady supply of hot water can be a daily frustration. It affects everything from your morning shower to washing dishes and doing laundry. Factors such as sediment buildup, the wrong-sized water heater, or a malfunctioning thermostat can all contribute to this ongoing challenge.
Longacre Company understands the importance of having reliable access to hot water. We offer expert guidance and professional maintenance services to help you overcome these issues.
Understanding Water Heater Types: Tankless vs. Traditional
When it comes to heating water for your home, there are two main types of water heaters to consider: tankless and traditional tank models. Traditional water heaters store and preheat a set amount of water in a tank. This means they’re constantly working to maintain the water at a set temperature. This can lead to energy inefficiency over time due to standby heat loss.
In contrast, tankless water heaters heat water instantly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. Either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water. This means that tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient, as they only heat water when it is needed. They can eliminate standby energy losses associated with traditional tank water heaters.
Lifespan Comparisons
The average lifespan of a traditional tank water heater is typically around 8-12 years for gas models and 10-15 years for electric models, assuming proper maintenance is performed.
Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance and operation. The longevity of tankless models is partly due to the absence of a tank that can fail and cause the entire unit to be replaced. Factors such as water quality, maintenance routines and usage patterns can affect the lifespan of both types of water heaters.
In Berks County, PA, the water quality is measured at 151 PPM, which indicates moderately hard water. Homeowners may need to be more diligent with maintenance to prevent mineral buildup that can affect the efficiency and longevity of their water heaters.
Water Heater Benefits And Maintenance
Both tankless and traditional water heaters have their benefits. Traditional water heaters are generally less expensive upfront and are a well-understood technology. Tankless water heaters, while more expensive initially, can offer savings in the long run due to their higher energy efficiency and longer lifespan. They also save space and provide a continuous supply of hot water
To extend the life of a tankless water heater, regular servicing is crucial. This includes descaling to remove mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water like Berks County, PA. Servicing tankless water heaters can prevent issues such as leaks and inefficiency. Traditional water heaters also require maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion
Longacre Company’s Role
Longacre Company, with our expertise in HVAC, plumbing and remodeling services, can assist homeowners in Berks County, PA, in choosing the right water heater for their needs. We can provide professional maintenance and installation services for both tankless and traditional water heaters. Whichever system you choose will be installed correctly and maintained for best performance.
Your Trusted Berks County Plumbing Company
Tankless water heaters generally last longer than traditional tank water heaters. Proper maintenance is a key factor in maximizing the lifespan of both. Homeowners in Berks County, PA, can rely on Longacre Company for expert advice on selecting, installing and maintaining their water heaters.
Consulting with professionals like Longacre Company can help homeowners make a choice that balances efficiency, longevity and cost-effectiveness.
