If you're replacing your water heater or planning a home upgrade in St. Albert, one important decision is whether to choose a tankless system or a traditional storage tank.
Both options are reliable, but they serve different needs. At A1 Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners compare the pros and cons of each system based on their lifestyle, usage, and home setup. Here’s what you should know to make the right choice.
The first factor to consider is how your household uses hot water.
If your goal is to have hot water available without thinking about it, a tankless system may be the better fit. These systems are designed for convenience, allowing you to run the shower, laundry, and dishwasher at the same time without running out of hot water.
A traditional water tank, on the other hand, stores a set amount of heated water. Once the tank empties, you need to wait for it to reheat before you have more. For small households or light water use, that may be perfectly fine. For busy families, it can be frustrating.
Tankless systems are more efficient, but they do not always lead to long-term cost savings. The value often comes from performance and convenience, not from energy savings alone.
Installing a tankless water heater usually requires more preparation than simply swapping out a tank.
Homes may need a gas line upgrade due to the higher BTU output. A standard water tank might run at around 40,000 BTUs, while a tankless unit can require closer to 200,000.
Newer homes that do not have chimneys typically use power-vented or direct-vented units, which work well for both tank and tankless systems. In older homes, retrofitting may require additional work and costs.
One key difference between systems is maintenance.
That ongoing maintenance is something homeowners should factor in. A tankless system can deliver exceptional performance—but it comes with the responsibility of looking after it.
Many people believe that tankless systems do not work properly or take too long to heat up. In most cases, issues are caused by improper installation or lack of maintenance.
Once installed correctly, a tankless system delivers reliable, consistent performance. It may take a few extra seconds for the water to reach temperature, but once it does, it stays hot for as long as needed.
Another myth is that tankless systems will save enough money on utilities to pay for themselves. While they are more efficient, the financial return often takes longer than expected and should not be the only reason for choosing one.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly solution and do not mind waiting occasionally for hot water, a traditional tank may be the right fit.
If your goal is to never run out of hot water and you want a long-term solution with better energy efficiency and space savings, a tankless system might be the better option.
At A1 Heating & Cooling, we take the time to understand your household’s needs, your existing equipment, and what you want out of your system. From there, we help you make the best decision for your home.
Not sure which system is best for your home? We are happy to help.
A1 Heating & Cooling has served St. Albert and the surrounding area since 1979. Our team provides honest advice, expert installation, and dependable service to help you stay comfortable year-round.
Call us today or book online to schedule your water heater consultation.
