When it comes to keeping your family supplied with hot water, choosing the right water heater makes all the difference. Bassett Services is proud to serve Indiana homeowners with trusted plumbing, HVAC, and electrical solutions, and one of the most common questions we get is whether a tankless or traditional (tank-style) water heater is the better choice. The truth is, both have advantages — and the right option depends on your household’s needs.
How Traditional Tank Water Heaters Work
A traditional water heater stores a large volume of hot water — typically 40 to 80 gallons — in a tank. It continuously heats and reheats that water to maintain a set temperature, so it’s ready whenever you turn on the tap.
Advantages:
- Lower upfront cost than tankless models
- Familiar, widely available technology
- Simple installation and maintenance
- Reliable supply for moderate demand households
Drawbacks:
- Higher monthly energy use (heating water even when not in use)
- Limited hot water capacity — you can “run out”
- Larger footprint, requiring space in basements or utility rooms
- Average lifespan of 8–12 years
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Tankless (on-demand) systems heat water only when it’s needed. Instead of storing hot water, they use high-powered burners or electric elements to heat water as it flows through the unit.
Advantages:
- Endless hot water supply (no running out during showers or laundry)
- Energy savings since water is only heated when needed
- Compact design saves space — units can be wall-mounted
- Longer lifespan of 15–20 years with proper care
Drawbacks:
- Higher upfront installation cost
- May require electrical or gas line upgrades
- Limited simultaneous capacity if undersized
- Annual maintenance needed to prevent scale buildup
Which Is Best for Indiana Homes?
The right water heater depends on your home, your budget, and your lifestyle:
- Traditional tank systems are often best for households that want a lower upfront cost and have consistent but moderate hot water needs.
- Tankless systems are a great fit for families that use lots of hot water (showers, laundry, dishwashing) or want long-term energy savings.
Indiana’s cold winters also play a role. Tankless units must work harder to heat very cold groundwater, so proper sizing and professional installation are crucial.
Cost Considerations
- Traditional Water Heater: $1,200–$2,000 (installed)
- Tankless Water Heater: $3,000–$5,500 (installed, depending on size and fuel type)
While tankless models cost more upfront, many Indiana homeowners recoup savings through lower utility bills and longer lifespan.
Maintenance Needs
- Traditional units: Flush annually to prevent sediment buildup, replace anode rods as needed.
- Tankless units: Annual descaling to prevent mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water (common across Indiana).
Regular maintenance ensures whichever option you choose runs efficiently for years.
Why Choose Bassett Services for Water Heater Installation?
For more than 40 years, Bassett has been helping Indiana families choose and install the right water heaters for their homes. Our licensed plumbers provide:
- Same-day service when you need hot water restored quickly
- Upfront pricing so you know costs before we begin
- Expert recommendations on tank vs. tankless systems for your specific needs
- Satisfaction guarantee with every installation
Schedule Your Water Heater Service Today
Don’t wait until your old water heater fails. Call Bassett Services today to schedule your tankless or traditional water heater consultation and installation.
Families across Indiana have trusted Bassett for more than four decades. Schedule your appointment now and let us help you choose the best water heater for your home.
