If you’re considering upgrading your home’s water heating system, you’ve probably heard about tankless water heaters. Unlike traditional models that store and heat a large amount of water at all times, tankless water heaters work on demand—only heating water when needed. This can lead to significant energy savings, but is a tankless system the right choice for your home?

At Vander Hyde Services, we’ve been helping Grand Rapids homeowners with plumbing needs since 1989. Our experts have installed and serviced both traditional and tankless water heaters, and we understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of each. To help you make the best decision, let’s dive into the pros and cons of tankless water heaters.

Pros of Tankless Water Heaters

✅ Endless Hot Water

Since tankless water heaters heat water as it flows through the system, you never run out of hot water—making them ideal for large families or homes with high hot water demand.

✅ Lower Energy Bills

Because tankless systems only heat water when needed, they consume less energy than traditional water heaters, which continuously keep a large tank heated. This can lead to noticeable savings on utility bills over time.

✅ Compact Size

Traditional water heaters take up much space, often requiring an entire utility closet or basement corner. Tankless models, on the other hand, are small and wall-mounted, freeing up valuable space in your home.

✅ Longer Lifespan

A properly maintained tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, whereas traditional water heaters typically need replacement after 10–15 years. Investing in a tankless system means fewer replacements in the long run.

✅ Eco-Friendly

Tankless water heaters are a more environmentally friendly choice because they use less energy and reduce water waste. This is a great step if you want to make your home greener.

Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

⚠️ Higher Upfront Cost

Tankless water heaters are more expensive to purchase and install than traditional models. While the long-term energy savings help offset this cost, the initial investment can be a barrier for some homeowners.

⚠️ Limited Flow Rate

Unlike a traditional water heater that stores a large amount of hot water, a tankless unit only heats water as it passes through. This means that if multiple people use hot water simultaneously, the system may struggle to keep up.

⚠️ Slight Delay in Hot Water

Since water is heated on demand, it can take a few extra seconds for the hot water to reach your faucet compared to a traditional system. While not a major inconvenience, it’s something to consider.

Should You Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater?

If you’re still unsure whether a tankless water heater is right for you, here’s a quick comparison to help:

Pros:

✔ Unlimited hot water supply

✔ Lower energy bills and increased efficiency

✔ Compact design saves space

✔ Longer lifespan than traditional models

✔ Environmentally friendly

Cons:

⚠ Higher initial cost

⚠ Limited flow rate when multiple appliances are in use

⚠ Small delay in hot water delivery

At Vander Hyde Services, we specialize in water heater installation and repairs in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. If you’re considering switching to a tankless system, our experienced team can help you choose the right unit for your home and budget.

🔧 Ready to make the switch? Call Vander Hyde Services today at (616) 319-2125 for expert guidance and professional installation!