Choosing the Right Water Heater

Not sure which water heater to choose? DRF Water Heating Solutions can help you select the perfect model to fit your lifestyle, then deliver and install it same-day.

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The Difference Between Tank and Tankless Water Heaters

When it's time to replace your water heater, there are two basic solutions— either a traditional tank water heater or a new high efficiency tankless model.

Tank Water Heater

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters are “always-on”—they operate all day, every day, keeping hot water stored at the pre-set temperature until it is needed. Most tank-style water heaters have a capacity of 40 to 50 gallons, which limits the amount of hot water that’s available at any given time.

Learn more about tank water heaters.

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters operate “on-demand”—they heat water only when it is needed, providing an endless supply of hot water at a maximum flow of 5.1 gallons per minute with a 70-degree temperature range (from 70°F  to 140°F). Tankless water heaters are best for larger households, multi-unit buildings and households that use a lot of hot water.

Learn more about tankless water heaters.

Which Water Heater Solution is Right for You?

Tank Water Heater Facts

Water heaters account for nearly 17% of a home's energy use, consuming more energy than all other household appliances combined.

60% of water heater replacements are made during an emergency situation.

An Energy Star qualified water heater can save a household up to $285 a year on energy bills compared to a non-qualified model.

Tankless Water Heater Facts

Tankless water heaters are only installed in about 4% of US homes, but are increasing in popularity every year.

Tankless water heaters are up to 34% more energy efficient than tank models.

A gas tankless water heater can pay for itself through energy savings in as little as 7 years.

Comparing Water Heaters

How do water heaters work?

Tank water heaters are always on to keep stored water at the preset temperature.

Tankless water heaters operate on demand to quickly bring water to the preset temperature for as long as its needed.

How long do water heaters last?

Tank water heaters last 7 to 10 years on average. The typical warranty on a tank heater is 6 years with up to 12 year warranty available.

Tankless water heaters last 20 years or more on average. The typical warranty on a tankless water heater is 6 years; an industry-leading 20 year warranty is available.

What happens when water heaters fail?

Tank water heaters will eventually leak. In 7 of 10 cases, the tank ruptures dumping 40 or more gallons of water onto the floor – then up to 15 gallons per minute until the water supply is shut off.

Tankless water heaters have no tank to burst, so no flooding or damage to your home and no mess to clean up.

How can I prevent a leaking tank water heater from damaging my home and posessions?

A Flo by Moen Smart Home Water Security System will monitor your home’s entire plumbing system, alert you to leaks, and automatically turn off the water when a problem is detected.

Learn more.

What's the difference in cost between a tank and tankless water heater?

Tank water heaters cost less because of their simple design, shorter life expectancy and ability to be replaced more easily utilizing existing venting, gas (or electric), and plumbing connections.

Tankless water heaters cost more because of a more powerful burner, computerized controls, longer life expectancy, and the need to reconfigure gas, plumbing and venting in a replacement situation.

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