At Titan Plumbing Group here in Howell, Michigan, we’ve been seeing a big shift lately: more homeowners are choosing tankless water heaters — and for good reason. As master plumbers, we’ve installed, repaired, and replaced every kind of system you can imagine. If you’re wondering why a tankless water heater might be right for your home, here’s what we’ve seen firsthand.
One of our recent customers had a traditional tank-style heater that was over 12 years old. While it had served them well, it was time for an upgrade. They chose to go tankless, and they couldn’t be happier. Within just a few weeks, they noticed huge improvements: instant hot water at the kitchen sink, and faster heating in the showers — a major win for their family of five.
Tankless water heaters are built for efficiency. They only heat water when you actually need it. That means you’re not paying to keep 40 or 50 gallons of water hot 24/7 like you do with a traditional tank. This smart design can lead to lower energy bills and reduced power waste, something we always like to see for our Howell neighbors.
Another benefit? Space savings. Tankless units are sleek, compact, and can be wall-mounted — perfect for freeing up space in basements or utility rooms.
And when it comes to performance, nothing beats the endless hot water you get with a tankless system. No more cold surprises mid-shower, even if multiple people are using water at the same time. For families, especially ones with growing kids or multiple bathrooms, this is a game-changer.
Longevity is another huge plus. With regular maintenance, a tankless water heater can last up to 20 years — almost twice the lifespan of a traditional tank.
Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
-
Energy Efficiency: Only heats water when needed, reducing standby heat loss.
-
Endless Hot Water: Provides a continuous supply, even during peak usage.
-
Space-Saving: Compact, wall-mounted units free up valuable space.
-
Long Lifespan: With proper maintenance, they can last up to 20 years.
-
Smart Features: Some models offer mobile apps for easy monitoring and control.
Cons:
-
Higher Initial Cost: Tankless units cost more upfront for purchase and installation.
-
Limited Flow Rates: Might struggle to supply multiple fixtures at once, depending on household water pressure.
-
Complex Installation: May require venting, gas line upgrades, or electrical panel upgrades.
-
Water Quality Sensitivity: Hard water can cause scaling in the heat exchanger without pretreatment.
Tank Water Heaters
Pros:
-
Lower Initial Cost: Typically more affordable to buy and install.
-
Reserve Hot Water: Keeps a supply of hot water ready, helpful during power outages.
-
Simpler Installation: Easier and quicker to replace or install.
Cons:
-
Lower Energy Efficiency: Continuously heats water, leading to higher energy consumption.
-
Limited Hot Water: Can run out during heavy usage (especially with smaller tanks).
-
Takes Up More Space: Bulkier units require larger installation areas.
-
Potential for Leaks: Corrosion and wear can lead to tank leaks and even flooding.
Which Water Heater Is Right for You?
Consider a Tankless Water Heater if:
-
You want energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
-
You need continuous hot water for multiple users or appliances.
-
Space-saving is important for your home layout.
-
You’re willing to invest more upfront for long-term savings and reliability.
Consider a Traditional Tank Water Heater if:
-
Affordability is your top concern.
-
You prefer a simpler installation process.
-
You want a reserve supply of hot water for emergencies.
-
You’re okay with occasional periods of no hot water during heavy use.
Some systems even come with a mobile app, allowing you to control settings and monitor usage right from your smartphone — adding even more convenience to your daily routine.
At Titan Plumbing Group, we believe in helping Howell-area families find the best solutions for their homes. If you’re ready to upgrade to a tankless water heater or just have questions about whether it’s right for you, give us a call. We’re here to help — and we’ll treat your home like it’s our own.
Contact Titan Plumbing Group today for expert installation and honest advice!
