Every business space requires hot domestic water year-round – especially in Nashville, where winter lows dip to the low 30s. However, installing any domestic water heater isn’t enough as different unit types satisfy unique needs.
Below, our team at Interstate AC Service explains both tank and tankless water heaters, and which best satisfies YOUR company’s needs.
What Is the Difference Between Tank and Tankless Heaters?
Traditional tank heaters have insulated tanks that store and heat between 30 and 50 gallons of water. While the electric version is less expensive to install, gas uses 50% less energy.
Both contain a pipe at the top of the tank that sends domestic water to all water appliances, from sinks and showers to dishwashers and washing machines.
Unlike traditional units, tankless water heaters do not heat water 24/7 to ensure it’s always available. Instead, they heat on demand since they don’t have a tank for storing hot water. This means the high-powered burners send heat to the water in the heat exchanger in real time for your fixtures.
Which Domestic Water Heater Is Best for Your Business?
Not all businesses use the same amount of water. While an office building or diner only uses hot domestic water for sinks and kitchens, laundromats and hotels use more to run dozens of washers, showers, and other appliances.
Determine how much water you need daily to decide between tank vs. tankless water heaters.
Heating Capacity
According to the Department of Energy, tankless or continuous-flow heaters only heat two to five gallons of water per minute. That means when running multiple appliances simultaneously, you may run out of hot water – even with a high tankless water recovery rate.
If your business has a high hot domestic water demand, consider a tank heater with a storage capacity of between 400 and 500 gallons.
Energy Efficiency
While on-demand heating may not provide as much water, its lack of storage makes it more energy efficient.
Tank heaters have a heating element at the tank’s base that constantly heats, so when the surrounding water heats, that water floats to the top and the cooler water sinks lower for heating (even when not in use). Tankless heaters only heat when you turn on the water, so they conserve energy.
Cost-Effectiveness
When considering a tankless water heater, remember that because they heat more efficiently, they’re more cost effective in the long run. They also last 20 to 30 years, twice as long as their tank counterparts, so you’ll need fewer replacements, making them more economical.
Tank water heaters are simpler by design, meaning they have a cheaper upfront cost with a lower purchase and installation fee. You also pay less for maintenance and repairs, which is ideal for business owners on a budget.
The Only Stop on the Interstate for Quality Heating!
Whether you need to decide between a tank versus tankless water heaters, or want to schedule services, contact Interstate AC Service in Nashville, TN. Our five-star team will offer prompt and courteous five-star assistance today!
Call us at (615) 802-COOL to learn more.
