Tank vs Tankless Water Heaters: Which is Right for Your Florida Home?
When it's time to replace your water heater, you'll face an important decision: stick with a traditional tank unit or upgrade to tankless? Here's a comprehensive comparison to help Florida homeowners make the right choice.
Traditional Tank Water Heaters
Tank water heaters store and continuously heat a reservoir of water (typically 40-80 gallons). They've been the standard for decades and remain popular for good reasons.
Pros of Tank Water Heaters
Cons of Tank Water Heaters
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless (or on-demand) water heaters heat water only when you need it, eliminating the energy waste of keeping a tank hot 24/7.
Pros of Tankless Water Heaters
Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Which is Best for Florida?
Florida's warm climate actually favors tankless water heaters. Since incoming water temperatures are higher (around 70°F vs 40°F up north), tankless units work more efficiently here and can handle higher flow rates.
Cost Comparison Over 15 Years
| Cost Factor | Tank (50 gal) | Tankless |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase & Install | $1,200 | $3,500 |
| Annual Energy Cost | $450 | $300 |
| 15-Year Energy Cost | $6,750 | $4,500 |
| Replacement (Year 12) | $1,200 | $0 |
| 15-Year Total | $9,150 | $8,000 |
Our Recommendation
For most Florida households, we recommend tankless water heaters for their long-term savings and endless hot water. However, tank units remain a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners or those with lower hot water needs.
Need Help Deciding?
Our water heater specialists can assess your home and recommend the best option for your family's needs and budget. We install both tank and tankless systems.
Call 850-202-2749