There are two kinds of water heaters: the standard tank heater that is present in most homes, and the tankless water heater. Both types are available in gas or electric power varieties. Below is a brief description of the pros and cons related to each type.

Tank hot water heaters

All of the tanks we install are energy efficient, quick recovery water heaters, although gas heaters are faster recovery than electric.

Advantages

A tank full of preheated water that can still be used if the power goes out

Will feed multiple fixtures at the same time

Gas tank heaters will continue to produce hot water during a power outage

Disadvantages

Will eventually run out of hot water if used for an extended period of time

Must run every few hours to maintain the temperature in the tank

Tankless Water Heaters

Both gas and electric tankless water heaters are energy efficient. Electric heaters require more amperage than most houses supply and they will only run one fixture at a time. Gas tankless heaters will supply two fixtures at a time, but they usually require a larger gas line, new venting and a modified electrical outlet when converting from a tank type heater.

Advantages

Only use power to heat water when there is flow

Provide continuous hot water for as long as needed

Disadvantages

About three times the price of standard tank type heaters

Produce a finite volume of hot water per minute

Supply a limited number of fixtures