If you stepped into your shower and were greeted by an icy assault, it may be time for a new water heater. Water heaters that take forever to warm up water or are more than 12 years old are other factors to consider when replacing your current water heater.

If you’re in the market for a new water heater for your Chicago North Shore or Chicago Northwest suburban home, including Highland Park, Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire, and more, contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric. We have a wide selection of traditional storage-tank water heaters and tankless units to choose from.

Which Type of Water Heater Should I Buy?

Here’s a buying guide that can be referred to when purchasing a new water heater:

Storage Tank Water Heaters

Storage tank water heaters are still the most common type. Natural gas and liquid propane heaters and other gas water heaters are preferred, as they normally use less energy and are less expensive than electric water heaters of the same size. There are also solar water heaters that utilize energy from the sun. While they are much more energy efficient and there are tax incentives available, you most likely would need a backup system for cloudy days.

When buying a storage-tank water heater, there are three key considerations.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters do not store hot water. Rather, they heat water as it passes through a series of coils. These units, which are available in electric, natural gas or liquid propane models, are more energy efficient. In fact, you can expect a 10% to 20% increase in overall energy efficiency over a storage-tank water heater. Tankless water heaters also take up less space.

However, tankless water heaters can only heat a limited amount of water. If you exceed the flow rate, the water will not be in the unit long enough to heat up. It will also typically take a tankless water heater more time to heat up, which means you will wait longer for hot water. This is especially important in cold weather climates like ours. Finally, tankless water heaters require additional de-liming maintenance that tank-type units do not.

Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Water Heater Services

As you can see, there are many benefits of buying both types of water heaters. If you have more questions about water heaters or would like us to provide and install a new water heater, contact us today.

We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, HVAC, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.