Storage water heaters vs instant water heaters are debatable in terms of usage, power consumption, size, and compatibility with specific scenarios. Therefore, it is not a black-and-white topic to conclude. Each type has its pros and cons. It depends more on personal choice.
In the broader context, water heaters have two primary types: storage and instant water heaters. Both heaters‘ purpose is to provide a hot water supply to homeowners. Because it is the minor favorite thing of a person to bathe in cold, cold water on a winter morning, this guide will provide sufficient information on both types of water heaters so that you might be able to choose the one that suits your demand.
Method of Analysis
Since we are analyzing two different kinds of water heaters that basically serve the same purpose but in different working styles, we will first introduce both types and cover the primary features in the introduction to clear the basic concepts.
After the introduction, we will compare the two types based on some deciding factors. In other words, we will explore two kinds of heaters in the light of different user questions. This comparison will make life easier for the readers to decide which heater is suitable for their usage.
Scrutinizing Factors
We will use the subsequent factors to analyze the utility of either type of water heater. These factors will make the debate on storage water heaters vs instant water heaters easier from the user’s perspective.
- Occupied space
- Price
- Number of outlets
- Consumed time
- Design and body
- Level of protection
- Life span
Introduction of Both the Heaters
Storage Water Heaters
Storage water heaters have a tank that fills with cold water and is converted to hot water for bathing and washing purposes in the winter. The cold water from the main supply line enters the storage tank from the bottom. At the same time, the hot water goes away from the top side. This arrangement ensures that the tank is always full of water.
The storage water heaters generally store and heat a reasonable amount of water. Because the quantity of water is significant and this whole quantity of water needs to be heated, storage water heaters typically consume more units of electricity.
Instant Water Heaters
The working phenomenon of instant water heaters is uncomplicated, and as the name suggests, these types of heaters provide hot water instantly. The cold water comes in through an inlet pipe and passes through a heating element.
After passing through the heating element, the water temperature rises, and so does the water in the tank. This water then flows towards the faucets or valves for usage. Since instant heaters only heat the required water, they typically consume less electricity.
Storage Water Heaters vs Instant Water Heaters
Let us start the comparison and discuss the above-mentioned scrutinizing factors.
Occupied space
Storage water heaters have a large water tank that can store large amounts of water. Therefore, these heaters occupy more space and are suitable for houses where there are a large number of family members. Because they will need hot water for their usage, it’s appropriate to have storage heaters.
On the contrary, if you have a compact house and a small family, you should use an instant heater because it only provides the required water. It occupies less space because it does not have a large tank.
Price
The instant heaters are relatively inexpensive than the storage heaters because of the modesty of their size and water heating capability.
Number of Outlets
Instant heaters help supply one tap. Therefore, they are suitable for the limited use of hot water. While the storage water heaters can deliver hot water to the entire house. Hence, storage heaters are more suitable for large homes and families.
Consumed Time
Instant heaters, as the name suggests, consume less time to heat the water. These heaters have a heating element made of copper that operates on 3000 to 4500 W and heats the water in quick succession.
Storage heaters on the other end take about 10 minutes to heat the water. These heaters use a heating element that operates on 2000 W and takes more time to heat a large quantity of water.
Design and Body
Both the water heaters have sturdy, rust-free, and long-lasting bodies, but the instant heaters have smart shield protection that prevents the flow of pollutants with the hot water.
Level of Protection
The instant water heater contains four safety layers: capillary thermostat, automatic thermal cut-off option, pressure release valve, & fusible plug.
The storage heater has three safety levels: to protect the heater against auto-off malfunctions and to protect you from electric shocks.
Life Span
The lifespan of water heaters depends on usage and maintenance. The hardness of water is another deciding factor in the context of a heater’s lifespan. Typically the lifespan of an instant heater is around seven years, with an inner tank warranty of five years. On the other end, storage heaters have a lifespan of approximately ten years, with an internal tank warranty of seven years.
Conclusion
Storage water heaters vs instant water heaters is a usage-oriented debate that depends on multiple factors. All the notable factors of comparison have been discussed in this guide to give you a better insight into water heaters.