Choosing the right water heater can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to decide between a tankless water heater and a traditional one. At Honey Bear Plumbing, we get this question a lot from Knoxville & Maryville homeowners who want to upgrade their water system but aren’t sure which option fits their home, budget, and lifestyle best.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of both systems, so you can make the best decision for your comfort—and your wallet.
What’s the Difference?
- Traditional Water Heaters (aka storage tank heaters) store hot water in a large tank, usually 40 to 80 gallons. They keep this water heated at all times so it’s ready when you need it.
- Tankless Water Heaters (aka on-demand heaters) heat water only when you turn on the tap. No storage tank—just instant, energy-efficient heat as needed.
Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater
✅ Endless Hot Water
No more cold showers! Tankless systems heat water as it flows through the unit, so you’ll never run out—great for large families or back-to-back showers.
✅ Energy Efficiency
Tankless heaters only use energy when water is needed, saving you money each month on your utility bills.
✅ Space Saving Design
Mounted on a wall and much smaller than a tank unit, tankless systems free up floor space—perfect for smaller homes or utility closets.
✅ Longer Lifespan
With proper maintenance, tankless water heaters can last up to 20+ years, compared to 10–15 for tank units.
✅ Cleaner Water
No standing water means less chance of rust and mineral build-up, so your water stays fresher and cleaner.
Drawbacks of a Tankless Water Heater
⚠️ Higher Upfront Cost
Installation and unit prices are more expensive than traditional heaters. But the long-term energy savings often balance it out over time.
⚠️ May Need Upgrades
Depending on your home’s plumbing or gas line, some upgrades may be necessary for installation.
⚠️ Flow Rate Limitations
If multiple appliances need hot water at the same time, a single tankless unit may struggle unless sized properly.
Benefits of a Traditional Water Heater
✅ Lower Upfront Cost
Tank systems are generally more affordable to install and replace, making them ideal for tighter budgets.
✅ Simpler Installation
If you’re replacing an old tank system with a new one, installation is usually quicker and less complicated.
✅ Reliable for Moderate Demand
Great for smaller households with moderate hot water usage.
Drawbacks of Traditional Units
⚠️ Limited Hot Water Supply
Once the tank runs out, you’ll need to wait for it to refill and reheat—a problem if you have guests or a busy household.
⚠️ Higher Utility Bills
Since the water is kept hot around the clock, traditional heaters use more energy—even when you’re not using hot water.
⚠️ Shorter Lifespan
Most last 10–15 years and may suffer from corrosion or mineral buildup over time.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s how to decide:
- Go Tankless if you want…
✔ Energy savings over time
✔ Unlimited hot water
✔ A space-saving solution
✔ A long-term investment - Stick with a Traditional Tank if you want…
✔ Lower upfront cost
✔ A simpler replacement
✔ Reliable hot water with lower daily demands
Let Honey Bear Plumbing Help You Choose the Right System
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—your choice depends on your family’s water usage, budget, and long-term plans. At Honey Bear Plumbing, we help homeowners in Knoxville and beyond weigh their options and get the perfect water heater for their needs.
Need help deciding? Contact us today for a quick consultation and let’s make sure your next shower is the best one yet.
