Guide to Water Heaters: Which is Right for You?

Serving Hillsboro | Beaverton | West Portland

Choosing the right type of water heater can be a daunting task. With so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. Should you go for a traditional tank-style water heater or a more modern tankless system? How can you tell which is the best fit for your lifestyle and needs?

Each type of water heater comes with its own set of pros and cons, and making the right choice depends on a variety of factors, including your budget, your energy usage patterns, and your specific hot water needs. That’s where the experts at All Pro can help. Our qualified technicians explore some key considerations in this guide to water heaters to help you choose the right model for your home or business.

Tankless VS Conventional Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters can come in two forms: tankless and conventional. All Pro Plumbing has experience with both, from installation and maintenance to repairs and replacements. To help you choose the best option for your household, here’s what you need to know about tankless versus conventional electric water heaters:

Tankless Water Heater

As the name implies, tankless water heaters do not store hot water in a conventional tank. Instead, it creates hot water on demand using extremely hot coils. Because the water is not kept at a constant temperature, tankless heaters tend to be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. They are also best suited to smaller homes with a lower demand for large amounts of hot water. 

Conventional Water Heater

Conventional water heaters are the most common type on the market. They work by heating up a large amount of water and storing it pre-warmed in an insulated tank. The heater must constantly work to keep the water at a set temperature, making it less efficient than a tankless option. However, because conventional water heaters have so much hot water available, they are ideal for large spaces or busy households that require a lot of hot water on a daily basis. 

Gas VS Electric Water Heaters

When it comes to choosing a water heater, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for an electric or gas-powered system. Each type of water heater comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on several factors, such as your hot water needs, the cost of energy in your area, and the layout of your home. Here’s what you need to know about gas versus electric water heaters:

Gas Water Heaters

Gas-powered water heaters have been a top choice for both residential and commercial use for quite some time now. Thanks to their rapid heating capabilities and reasonable operating expenses, they have remained a popular option. When compared to electric models, they tend to be more energy-efficient and can often save you money on utility bills over time.

• Comes in two forms: propane or natural gas.
• Typically cost more upfront, but can save on utilities over the course of its lifetime.
• May not be available in every location, or in every household. 
• Has more restrictions on gas as a fuel source.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are a popular choice for homes and businesses for their low upfront cost and reliability. Since they don’t rely on gas, they are also a safer option that is easier to install. Here’s what you need to know about electric options:

• Less heat loss when hot water is not being used.
• Faster and less expensive to install than gas options. 
• Has less restrictions and fewer safety concerns. 
• May be the only option depending on the availability of natural gas or propane. 

Your Local Water Heater Experts

Want to learn more about which water heater is right for you? Contact All Pro Plumbing today, and we can help you consider every option, finding the perfect water heater for your home or business! Our technicians are licensed, bonded, insured, and backed by over 20 years of experience. We take pride in delivering exceptional services with outstanding customer care. To find your perfect water heater, give us a call today!