When your water heater stops working or you’re upgrading your home’s plumbing, one big question comes up: What type of water heater do I need?

With so many options, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one. Tank or tankless? Gas or electric? What size do you need? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

As your trusted plumbing experts in South Jersey, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know. Let’s break it down so you can pick the perfect water heater for your home.

Understanding the Different Types of Water Heaters

Before you choose, it’s important to understand your options. Here are the main types of water heaters you’ll find on the market:

Tank Water Heaters (Storage Water Heaters)

A tank water heater is the traditional type most homes have. It stores hot water in a large tank, usually between 30 to 80 gallons, and keeps it warm until you need it.

Pros:
✔ Reliable hot water supply
✔ Lower upfront cost
✔ Easier installation

Cons:
✖ Can run out of hot water
✖ Takes up more space
✖ Higher energy costs due to standby heat loss

If you have a larger family or multiple bathrooms, a tank water heater might be the way to go.

Tankless Water Heaters (On-Demand Water Heaters)

A tankless water heater heats water only when you need it. Instead of storing hot water, it instantly warms up the water as it flows through.

Pros:
✔ Unlimited hot water supply
✔ More energy-efficient
✔ Saves space

Cons:
✖ Higher upfront cost
✖ May struggle with simultaneous hot water demands
✖ Can require upgrades to gas or electrical systems

Tankless water heaters are a great option if you want long-term energy savings and don’t mind a higher initial investment.

Heat Pump Water Heaters (Hybrid Water Heaters)

A heat pump water heater pulls heat from the surrounding air to warm up the water. It’s one of the most energy-efficient options available.

Pros:
✔ Lower energy costs
✔ Environmentally friendly
✔ Long lifespan

Cons:
✖ Higher upfront cost
✖ Requires enough space and good ventilation
✖ Works best in warmer climates

Heat pump water heaters are ideal if you want to save energy and have space for installation.

Solar Water Heaters

A solar water heater uses energy from the sun to heat your water. It’s great for reducing energy bills and cutting down on your carbon footprint.

Pros:
✔ Uses renewable energy
✔ Low operating costs
✔ Eligible for tax credits and rebates

Cons:
✖ High initial cost
✖ Requires sunlight and space for solar panels
✖ May need a backup heating source

Solar water heaters are perfect if you’re committed to sustainability and live in a sunny area.

Choosing Between Gas or Electric Water Heaters

Once you decide on the type of water heater, the next step is choosing between gas or electric power.

Gas Water Heaters

A gas water heater heats water using a burner and is powered by natural gas or propane.

✅ Pros: Heats water quickly, works during power outages, lower energy costs if you already have gas lines.
❌ Cons: Requires proper venting, may have a higher installation cost if you don’t have gas lines.

Electric Water Heaters

An electric water heater uses heating elements powered by electricity to warm your water.

✅ Pros: Lower upfront cost, safer (no gas leaks), easier installation.
❌ Cons: Slower heating, higher energy bills (especially in areas with expensive electricity).

If your home already has gas lines, a gas water heater is usually the better option. If not, electric models are simpler and safer to install.

What Size Water Heater Do I Need?

Now that you know what type of water heater fits your needs, it’s time to figure out the right size.

For Tank Water Heaters

Your tank should be large enough to handle your home’s peak hot water usage.

🔹 1-2 people: 30-40 gallons
🔹 3-4 people: 40-50 gallons
🔹 5+ people: 50-80 gallons

If your household takes back-to-back showers or runs multiple appliances at once, go for a larger tank.

For Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless systems are measured by flow rate (gallons per minute or GPM) instead of capacity. The more hot water you use at once, the higher the GPM you’ll need.

🔹 Single bathroom homes: 3-5 GPM
🔹 Two-bathroom homes: 5-7 GPM
🔹 Three+ bathroom homes: 7+ GPM

Choosing the right size ensures you never run out of hot water when you need it most!

What’s the Best Water Heater for You?

If You Want the Most Affordable Option:

Go with a gas-powered tank water heater. It’s cheaper upfront and still gets the job done.

If You Want to Save Energy and Money Over Time:

A tankless or heat pump water heater is your best bet. They cost more upfront but lower your energy bills.

If You Need Hot Water for a Large Family:

A high-capacity tank water heater (50+ gallons) will keep up with demand. Or go tankless if you want endless hot water!

If You Have a Small Home or Limited Space:

A tankless water heater is compact and frees up storage space.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Even the best water heater doesn’t last forever. Here are some signs it’s time for a new one:

🚨 Your water heater is over 10-15 years old
🚨 Rusty water is coming from your taps
🚨 Your hot water runs out too quickly
🚨 Strange noises coming from the tank
🚨 Water pooling around the base of your heater

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to call a professional.

Choosing the right water heater doesn’t have to be complicated. By considering tank vs. tankless, gas vs. electric, and the right size for your home, you can make the best decision.

Call Sheehan Connection for Water Heater Installation & Repairs!

Now that you have the knowledge, the next step is getting expert installation and maintenance.

At Sheehan Connection LLC, we provide professional water heater installation and repair services throughout South Jersey. Whether you need a new tankless water heater or a traditional gas unit, our skilled plumbers will help you choose the right system and install it hassle-free.

✅ Fast & reliable service
✅ Expert recommendations based on your home’s needs
✅ Affordable pricing with no hidden fees
✅ Emergency plumbing services available 24/7

Don’t wait until your water heater completely fails! Call us today at (856) 627-4495 or contact us online to schedule your water heater service.