There’s nothing like a hot shower to start the day right or a steaming bath at the end of a long week. The home’s water heater is the unsung hero that makes possible those showers, baths, and all the home’s other hot water needs.
Homeowners can choose between three main types of water heaters, each with its pros and cons. The traditional tank system features a 30- to 100-gallon storage tank that reheats the water once it drops below a set temperature so it’s always ready. Tankless (on-demand) systems use a heat exchanger to quickly heat the water to the desired temperature. There is often a slight heat-up time, particularly for faucets that are farther from the unit, but then the supply is unlimited. And, lastly, there are point-of-use units. These are small tankless units that heat water near-instantaneously, as they are located next to a specific fixture, with their small size allowing them to be installed under a kitchen sink or just about anywhere.
