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Tankless Water Heaters vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Pros & Cons

If you’re experiencing hot water issues like low pressure water or brown water, you might be in the market for a new water heater! Choosing the right water heater for your home is a significant decision that impacts both comfort and energy efficiency. Two popular options on the market today are tankless water heaters and traditional tank water heaters. Each type comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, catering to different household needs and preferences. 

The image shows a person checking the temperature of running water, possibly using a thermometer or by feeling it with their hand. This visual ties directly to the topic "Tankless Water Heaters vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Pros and Cons," emphasizing the importance of consistent water temperature as a key factor in choosing between the two types of heaters. The image is particularly relevant for homeowners in Washington State, especially in King and Pierce County, who are considering which water heater system best meets their needs. It highlights the practical aspect of everyday water use and how the right water heater can ensure a steady, reliable supply of hot water. The visual encourages residents to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each system to make an informed decision that enhances home comfort and efficiency.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of both tankless water heaters and traditional water heaters to help you make an informed decision. 

 

Traditional Water Heaters

Pros:

Lower Initial Cost: Traditional water heaters are generally cheaper to purchase and install compared to tankless models. This affordability makes them a popular choice for homeowners on a budget or those looking for a quick replacement.

Simple Installation: Installing a traditional water heater is straightforward, especially when replacing an existing unit. Most homes are already equipped with the necessary infrastructure, reducing installation time and costs.

Familiarity: Many homeowners and plumbers are familiar with traditional water heaters, making maintenance and repairs easier and potentially less expensive.

Cons:

Limited Efficiency: Traditional water heaters continuously heat and store water in the tank, which can lead to standby heat loss. This inefficiency results in higher energy bills over time, especially if the tank is not well-insulated.

Limited Hot Water Supply: The size of the tank determines the amount of hot water available at any given time. Once the stored hot water is depleted, low hot water pressure can occur as the tank refills and reheats the water. 

Shorter Lifespan: On average, traditional water heaters have a lifespan of 10-15 years. Over time, sediment buildup inside the tank can lead to corrosion and reduced efficiency, necessitating replacement.

Tankless Water Heaters

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Tankless water heaters only heat water on demand, eliminating standby heat loss. This can result in significant energy savings, especially in households with low to moderate hot water usage.

Endless Hot Water: Tankless models provide a continuous supply of hot water, as they heat water instantly when needed. This is beneficial for larger households or homes with high hot water demand.

Longer Lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan of 20 years or more. They also require less maintenance compared to traditional models, as there is no risk of tank corrosion or sediment buildup.

Cons:

Higher Initial Cost: The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater is higher than that of a traditional model. Additional upgrades to gas lines or electrical circuits may also be necessary, increasing installation costs.

Limited Flow Rate: Although tankless water heaters provide continuous hot water, their flow rate may be limited. Larger households or simultaneous hot water usage in multiple outlets may require a higher-capacity unit, which can be more expensive.

Complex Installation: Installing a tankless water heater can be more complex, especially in homes not originally designed for one. Proper sizing and placement are crucial to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

When choosing between a tankless water heater and a traditional water heater, consider your household’s hot water needs, budget, and energy efficiency goals. Traditional heaters can be cheaper upfront but can lead to higher energy costs over time due to inefficiency.

Tankless heaters offer energy savings and continuous hot water, but they require a higher initial investment and more complex installation. Proper sizing, professional installation, and regular maintenance are crucial for both types to ensure efficiency and longevity. It’s also important to factor in maintenance costs, such as septic and plumbing services, which can vary depending on the type of system you choose. 

 

Consulting with a qualified plumber can help determine the best option for your home. At FloHawks, we provide septic and plumbing installation services tailored to your needs to ensure optimal efficiency! Give us a call today!

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Isaiah Taylor

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Tacoma native Isaiah Taylor has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor, he focuses on building strong relationships with customers and making sure they feel confident in the solutions being provided.

Isaiah believes the company’s culture sets FloHawks apart. He appreciates working alongside people who genuinely care about customers and take pride in doing the job right.

At 26, Isaiah is focused on building his career and continuing to grow in the industry. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him in the gym lifting weights and staying active.

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Born in Olympia and now living in Lacey, Kevin Elbert has spent 11 years serving customers with FloHawks. As a Service Advisor, he is focused on helping homeowners and businesses find solutions when plumbing or septic issues arise.

Kevin’s favorite part of the job is working with customers who need help and finding a path forward that solves the problem. He values being part of a team that takes pride in delivering dependable service when it matters most.

In his free time, Kevin enjoys staying active outdoors. Hiking, camping, fishing, photography, soccer, and travel are some of his favorite ways to spend time when he’s not at work. At home, he stays busy with his four teenagers.

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Stephen Redford was born in Tacoma and now lives in Gig Harbor. With 14 years at FloHawks, he’s built a reputation as both a trusted Service Advisor and a key contributor to the company’s growth and outreach.

Stephen plays a role in business development, trade shows, and marketing while also supporting service operations across multiple areas. He appreciates FloHawks’ unique culture and commitment to customer service, believing the team consistently goes above and beyond what most companies offer.

Outside of work, Stephen enjoys walking, playing golf, and riding motorcycles. He’s married to his wife, Lori, and is the proud father of three children.

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Janie “J” Kirkland was born in Miami, Florida, and now calls Roy, Washington, home. Despite being newer to FloHawks, joining the team mid-2025, she has already become a valued member of the Service Advisor support team.

J enjoys the strong sense of teamwork at FloHawks and the relationships she has built with the people she works alongside each day. That collaborative spirit helps the team deliver the dependable service customers count on.

Outside the office, J loves spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, as well as making memories with her family. She’s the proud mother of two sons and a grandmother to four grandchildren.

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A Puyallup native who now lives in Spanaway, Carl Evanson has been helping customers at FloHawks for more than 13 years. As a Service Advisor, he brings deep experience and a practical approach to solving plumbing and septic challenges.

Carl takes pride in helping customers find real solutions to their problems. At FloHawks, the philosophy is simple: if water runs through it, the team can handle it, and Carl has spent more than a decade proving that to customers across the region.

When he’s not working, Carl enjoys camping and spending time with his growing family, which includes two grown sons and seven grandchildren.

Luke Schneider

Service Advisor Assistant

Originally from the Midwest and now living in the Puyallup area, Luke Schneider has spent the past three years supporting the FloHawks service team as a Service Advisor Assistant. His role focuses on logistics and administrative coordination, making sure the details are handled so the team can deliver excellent service in the field.

Luke especially enjoys the moment when everything comes together to solve a customer’s problem. Helping turn a complicated situation into a clear plan and a successful outcome is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

When he’s not working, Luke loves hosting and entertaining with his wife. Much of their free time is spent with family, often gathered around the table for board games and good conversation.

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Born and raised in Tacoma and now living in Puyallup, Crystal Lyons has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor Assistant, she helps keep operations running smoothly while making sure customers feel supported every step of the way.

Crystal’s favorite part of the job is simple: helping people. Whether she’s assisting the service team behind the scenes or making sure customers get the answers they need, she takes pride in being part of a company that puts people first.

Outside of work, Crystal enjoys camping and spending time with her family. She’s married, and the proud mom of one daughter, and she also helps care for her niece, keeping family at the center of everything she does.