Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Which One Is Right for Your Arizona Home?

When it comes to water heaters, homeowners are often faced with the big question: tankless or
traditional? Both options have their pros and cons — and the best choice depends on your
home’s needs.

Traditional Water Heaters (With Tank)

How it works:
Stores 30–80 gallons of hot water at all times in a tank, ready for use.

Pros:

– Lower upfront cost
– Simpler installation
– Reliable for small homes

Cons:

– Higher energy bills — keeps water hot 24/7
– Limited hot water — can run out
– Shorter lifespan (10–12 years)

Tankless Water Heaters

How it works:
Heats water on demand as you need it — no storage tank involved.

Pros:

– Unlimited hot water
– Lower energy bills
– Compact design (wall-mounted)
– Long lifespan (15–20 years)

Cons:

– Higher upfront cost
– May need upgrades to your plumbing or gas line

What’s Better for Arizona Homes?

– Smaller households: Traditional heaters may be more cost-effective.
– Larger families / High usage: Tankless gives you endless hot water and saves energy long-term.
– Tight spaces: Tankless units take up far less room.

Need help deciding?

AQUA Smart Plumbing provides honest guidance and professional installation of both tank and  tankless systems in Phoenix, AZ.