Despite the continued growth in the popularity of tankless water heaters, many homeowners are still hesitant to make the switch. There are some drawbacks, such as the higher upfront cost and the need for regular maintenance. However, tankless models provide numerous benefits that you won’t get with a traditional tank water heater. They aren’t the best option for every home, but it’s worth considering what they offer when it’s time to replace your water heater.
Unlimited Hot Water
Few things are more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to find that the water has run cold because someone else used the last of the hot water. This is a common issue with traditional water heaters, especially if your household takes back-to-back showers or runs multiple appliances at once. With a tankless water heater, you don’t have to worry about running out of hot water. These systems heat water on demand, meaning as soon as you open a tap, the unit starts heating what flows through it. Like any water heater, there’s a short delay while cooled water in the pipes is cleared, but once the hot water arrives, it won’t run out. The key factor is flow rate—every tankless system has a maximum number of gallons per minute it can heat. If demand exceeds that capacity, such as when showers and laundry are running at the same time, you may notice reduced temperature or pressure. The best way to avoid this is to size your system correctly. A licensed plumber can calculate your home’s hot water needs and recommend the right unit. In some homes, point-of-use tankless units for bathrooms or kitchens can be added to handle heavy demand and shorten wait times.
Lower Water Heating Costs
Water heating is often the second-largest energy expense in a home. Traditional tank systems constantly use energy to keep 40–50 gallons hot, cycling on and off throughout the day. When the stored supply runs out, it can take 30–60 minutes or more to fully reheat. Tankless water heaters avoid this waste by only running when hot water is needed. According to Energy Star, households typically save between 8% and 34% on water heating costs with tankless systems, depending on usage patterns and unit type. Families that use large amounts of hot water daily may see savings on the lower end of the range, while smaller households often see the greatest benefit.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Because they operate more efficiently, tankless units generally use less energy, which can lower your home’s carbon footprint. Gas-fired models do produce carbon dioxide directly, while electric tankless models depend on how your local grid generates electricity. In areas where electricity comes from renewable sources, electric tankless heaters may be the greener choice. A plumber can help you weigh energy efficiency against your utility sources to find the most eco-friendly option for your home.
Long Life Expectancy
Although tankless units are more expensive upfront and may require some plumbing or gas line modifications, they typically last nearly twice as long as standard tanks. Most traditional water heaters need replacement every 8–12 years, while a well-maintained tankless system can provide hot water for 20 years or more. Over time, this extended lifespan can offset part of the initial investment.
Reduced Risk of Leaks
One of the biggest risks with traditional tanks is that rust and corrosion eventually eat through the tank, creating leaks or even bursts that can flood your home. Tankless systems don’t store water, so they carry a much lower risk of catastrophic leaks. While internal parts like the heat exchanger can still corrode or scale up over time, routine maintenance—such as annual flushing—helps keep the system running efficiently and prevents most issues. If a tankless unit does develop a leak, damage is usually far less severe because water only runs through it while it’s operating.
Call Us Today
At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of North Metro, we install, repair, and maintain both tank and tankless water heaters. If you’re ready to enjoy endless hot water, lower energy bills, and peace of mind, we’ll help you choose the right system for your home. We arrive on time, fully prepared, and we stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact us today to schedule your water heater consultation.
