The Sunshine State is home not only to millions of snowbirds, but also has its fair share of property owners who rent out properties on vacation sites. When deciding on what type of water heater to install in a property that isn’t necessarily inhabited year-round, or one that must meet the needs of discerning guests, there are different factors to take into consideration.
The main decision you’ll need to make is whether to go with a tank vs a tankless water heater. Let’s go over the pros and cons of each type of system so you can make an informed decision when the time comes. No matter what type of water heater you choose, count on us for a faultless, stress-free installation process.
Tank Water Heaters: Pros and Cons
Tank heaters are the traditional type of water heater found in most homes today. However, their prevalence doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better. Tank water heaters are just more well-known and also happen to be less expensive than their tankless counterparts.
Tank water heaters are appropriately named in that they consist of a large storage tank that holds a large supply of hot water. They use energy 24/7 to keep hot water ready whenever you need it. As such, they tend to be energy hogs.
For homeowners who only live in Florida for part of the year, or property owners whose investment properties may sit empty for weeks on end, tank water heaters have their drawbacks. Unless you turn the power off to your home when it’s not in use, you’re paying to heat hot water that might not be used for weeks or months at a time.
Also, tank water heaters are more likely to leak, opening up the possibility of coming home to some expensive water damage. It’s also essential to have a tank water heater size correctly for an Airbnb property that may host a single guest to a large family. The last thing you want is reviews stating that your guest’s hot water ran out during their showers!
Tankless Water Heaters: Pros and Cons
Although tankless water heaters cost more to install and purchase upfront, they make a lot of sense for vacation rentals and homes that are used half the year. Not only do they cost less to run for the entire lifespan of the system, but they also have a longer lifespan than tank water heaters. That’s because they’re not subject to the wear and tear that comes from constantly heating hot water. Tank water heaters only last for 10-12 years while tankless systems last 15-20, making them well worth the investment.
Proper Sizing Is Crucial
No matter what type of water heater you get, making sure it’s properly sized is crucial. An undersized water heater will result in an inadequate hot water supply, something that an unhappy guest is likely to leave a negative review for. However, an oversized water heater can result in wasted energy and system inefficiencies, not to mention an unnecessary higher upfront purchase cost.
Leave it to a professional team such as ours to properly size a water heater for your home or investment property. Once it’s sized, we’ll also expertly install it so you’ll know it’ll serve your property well for many more years to come.
Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule water heater services in Orlando, FL today!
