When it comes to choosing a water heater for your home, maintenance should be part of the conversation—not just performance and efficiency.
At Doug the Plumber, we often get asked which is easier to maintain: a traditional tank water heater or a modern tankless unit. The answer? It depends on your home’s needs, your water quality, and how hands-on you want to be with upkeep.
Let’s take a closer look at the maintenance needs of both systems to help you make an informed decision.
Tank Water Heaters: Simple but Not Maintenance-Free
How they work:
Tank water heaters store and continuously heat a set amount of water (usually 40 to 60 gallons) so it’s ready when you need it.
Maintenance needs:
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Annual flushing: Over time, sediment from minerals in the water settles at the bottom of the tank. This buildup can reduce efficiency and even cause damage if not flushed out at least once a year.
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Anode rod replacement: This rod helps prevent corrosion inside the tank, but it wears out over time and needs replacing every few years.
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Temperature and pressure valve checks: These valves must function correctly to avoid dangerous pressure buildup.
The verdict:
Tank heaters are relatively easy to maintain for most homeowners, especially with regular professional checkups. However, neglecting simple maintenance can shorten their lifespan or lead to costly leaks.
Tankless Water Heaters: Energy-Efficient with Specific Needs
How they work:
Tankless systems heat water on demand as it flows through the unit, eliminating the need for a storage tank.
Maintenance needs:
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Descaling (especially in hard water areas): Tankless units are sensitive to mineral buildup, particularly around the heating elements. We recommend descaling once a year, or more often if you have hard water.
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Filter cleaning: Most tankless systems have a small inlet filter that catches debris before it enters the unit. This should be cleaned regularly.
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Venting and air intake checks: Ensuring proper airflow is key to safe and efficient operation.
The verdict:
Tankless water heaters generally require more detailed maintenance, but when properly cared for, they can last longer and perform more efficiently than tank models. Homeowners in the Comox Valley with hard water may find maintenance a bit more involved unless a water softener is also installed.
So, Which Is Easier to Maintain?
If you’re looking for a system that’s simple and familiar, a tank water heater might be your best bet. However, if you’re comfortable with a little more upkeep—or happy to leave it to the pros—a tankless water heater can reward you with energy savings and a longer service life.
Ultimately, both systems benefit from regular professional servicing to keep them running safely and efficiently.
Whether you’re thinking about upgrading your water heater or just want to make sure your current one is running smoothly, Doug the Plumber is here to help. We serve homeowners throughout the Comox Valley with honest advice, expert installation, and reliable maintenance services.
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Doug the Plumber
Need Help Choosing or Maintaining a Water Heater?
Give us a call today to schedule a water heater checkup or consultation—we’re just a phone call away from keeping your hot water flowing worry-free.