Tankless vs Traditional Water Heater Jacksonville NC | Pros & Cons
If you’ve ever had to take a cold shower because someone beat you to the hot water, you’ve probably thought about upgrading your water heater.
And if you’re in the market now, you’re likely stuck on one big question: Should I go with a traditional tank or switch to a tankless system?
As the owner of Wild Water Plumbing and a proud U.S. Navy veteran serving the Jacksonville, NC area, I’ve installed and repaired both types for years.
Here’s what I tell every homeowner when they ask me, “Which one’s better?”
🔁 Traditional Water Heaters: The Classic Workhorse
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost
- Simple to install and replace
- Can handle multiple fixtures at once
Cons:
- Stores a limited amount of hot water (usually 40–50 gallons)
- Runs out of hot water with back-to-back showers
- Uses energy 24/7 to keep water warm, even when you’re not using it
If budget is your top concern and your home already has a tank unit, sticking with a traditional system might be the easier, more affordable move.
However, if you’ve a larger family or high water demand, that tank may not be sufficient.
🔥 Tankless Water Heaters: The On-Demand Upgrade
Pros:
- Endless hot water on demand
- Energy-efficient (heats water only when needed)
- Smaller, wall-mounted units free up space
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost for the unit and installation
- May need a bigger gas line or electrical upgrade
- Some models can struggle with multiple fixtures running at once
Tankless water heaters are an excellent option if you’re tired of running out of hot water or want to lower your energy bills over time.
I always recommend tankless water heaters for smaller households or individuals planning to stay in their home long-term.
💬 My Take: What I Recommend for Jacksonville Homes
In Jacksonville, NC, we face challenges such as hard water, humid conditions, and growing families.
That means your water heater works harder than you think.
If your current tank unit is on its last leg, now’s a good time to consider going tankless—especially if you’re remodeling or upgrading appliances.
That said, not every home needs tankless.
Some homes need a properly sized traditional unit with solid maintenance.
That’s why we always come out, inspect your current setup, discuss your hot water usage, and provide honest advice about what will work best for you, not just what’s trendy.
🚿 Ready to Make the Switch?
Whether you’re thinking about replacing your current water heater or just trying to make a wise decision for your home, I’ve got your back.
Contact Wild Water Plumbing today and let’s figure out what makes sense for your home and budget.
You’ll get hot water that fits your lifestyle—and a local plumber who shows up when it matters.