Types of Water Heaters We Install & Service

Hot water is essential to everyday comfort, whether it's for showers, dishes, laundry, or cleaning. But not all water heaters are created equal. From traditional tank units to modern, energy-efficient tankless systems, the options can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what to look for.

We understand that choosing the right water heater can feel overwhelming—with so many options, price points, and efficiency ratings to consider. That’s why our team is trained to simplify the process and offer guidance you can trust. Our goal is to take the stress and guesswork out of the process. With years of experience, we help homeowners find systems that match their energy goals, budget, and household needs. Whether you're replacing an outdated unit, building a new home, or planning an upgrade, we’ll walk you through your options and help you make a confident, informed decision.

Quick Navigation

• Gas Tank Water Heaters
• Electric Tank Water Heaters
• Gas Tankless Water Heaters
• Electric Tankless Water Heaters
• Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters

Gas Tank Water Heaters

Gas tank water heaters are one of the most common and time-tested solutions for supplying hot water in American homes. These systems use natural gas to heat water stored in an insulated tank, typically ranging from 30 to 80 gallons. Once heated, the water is kept at a steady temperature, ready for use whenever you need it.

Because they use gas instead of electricity, they tend to heat water faster and operate more efficiently over time, especially in households with higher hot water demands. Many homeowners appreciate their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making them a smart choice for both replacements and new installations.

Best For:

• Homes with existing gas lines
• Moderate to large families
• Homeowners looking for a lower upfront investment
• Budget-conscious upgrades

Key Benefits:

• Fast Recovery Time – Reheats water quickly after heavy use
• Lower Operational Costs – More affordable to run than electric tank models in many areas
• Works During Power Outages – Delivers hot water even when electricity is down
• Simple Maintenance – Routine flushing and part replacement can extend the unit’s life

Things to Consider:

• Requires proper ventilation for combustion gases
• Less energy-efficient than tankless or hybrid models (due to standby heat loss)
• Takes up more space than compact systems

Electric Tank Water Heaters

Electric tank water heaters are a popular and practical solution, especially for homes without access to natural gas. These systems store hot water in an insulated tank, using electric heating elements to maintain the temperature. They’re simple, widely available, and easy to maintain—making them an excellent choice for smaller households or as a quick, cost-effective replacement option.

Because they don’t require gas lines or venting, electric tank models can be installed in more locations, offering flexibility for homeowners and contractors alike.

How They Work

Water is heated inside the tank by one or two electric elements (similar to oven coils), controlled by a thermostat. When hot water is drawn from the top of the tank, cold water flows in from the bottom and the elements activate to bring the temperature back up. The tank keeps the water hot until it’s needed.

Best For:

• Homes without access to natural gas
• Small to mid-sized households with moderate hot water needs
• Homeowners looking for a lower upfront cost

Key Benefits:

• Straightforward Installation – No need for gas lines or exhaust venting
• Low Initial Cost – Generally, more affordable to purchase and install
• Minimal Maintenance – Simple design means fewer moving parts
• Universal Availability – Easy to find parts, replacements, and service

Things to Consider:

• Slower recovery time compared to gas models
• Higher operational costs in areas with expensive electricity
• Susceptible to outages (requires power to operate)

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Gas tankless water heaters—also known as on-demand systems—are a game-changer for homes with high hot water usage. Instead of storing hot water in a tank, these units heat water instantly as it flows through the system using a powerful gas burner. That means you’ll never run out of hot water, even during back-to-back showers or heavy laundry days.

They’re compact, energy-efficient, and built to last, making them a top choice for homeowners looking to upgrade both performance and efficiency.

How They Work

When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through the unit, where it’s heated by a gas burner on demand. Since the system only activates when needed, there’s no energy wasted maintaining a tank of hot water—just a steady, efficient supply when and where you need it.

Best For:

• Homes with high hot water usage
• Families wanting endless hot water
• Space-saving upgrades

Key Benefits:

• Endless Hot Water – Never wait for a tank to refill
• Energy Efficiency – No standby heat loss, lower utility bills over time
• Longer Lifespan – Often lasts 20+ years with proper maintenance
• Saves Space – Wall-mounted, compact design is ideal for tight areas

Things to Consider:

• Higher upfront cost and installation requirements
• May require upgrades to gas line and venting
• Slight delay in water heating (known as “cold water sandwich”)
• Requires power to operate electronic controls

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Electric tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand without the need for a storage tank—just like their gas-powered counterparts. But instead of using a burner, they heat water with high-powered electric elements. These systems are ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or specific applications like bathrooms or kitchens where hot water is needed at the source.

Because they don’t require gas lines or venting, they’re easier to install in more places and are often more affordable up front than gas tankless models.

How They Work

When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water flows through the system and is instantly heated by electric elements inside the unit. The system only activates when needed, providing hot water exactly when it’s called for—no standby heating, no tank refills.

Best For:

• Homes without access to natural gas
• Small homes, apartments, or condos
• Point-of-use installations (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens)
• Budget-conscious homeowners looking for a tankless solution

Key Benefits:

• On-Demand Hot Water – Heats water instantly when you need it
• Compact Design – Installs easily in tight spaces or at point of use
• Lower Upfront Cost – More affordable than gas tankless systems
• No Venting Required – Simplifies installation, especially in retrofits

Things to Consider:

• May require electrical panel upgrades for larger units
• Not ideal for homes with very high hot water demands
• Slight delay in water delivery (common to all tankless systems)
• Doesn’t operate during power outages

Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters

ybrid electric heat pump water heaters are one of the most energy-efficient water heating options available today. Instead of generating heat directly like traditional electric or gas units, these systems pull heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water in the tank — using a fraction of the energy in the process.

This cutting-edge technology offers major savings on utility bills and often qualifies for rebates or tax incentives. It’s a smart, future-forward choice for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.

How They Work

Hybrid water heaters work like a reverse refrigerator. A fan draws in ambient air, which passes over an evaporator coil filled with refrigerant. This heat is then transferred to the water inside the storage tank. For times of high demand, the system can switch to standard electric resistance heating to keep up.

Best For:

• Energy-conscious homeowners
• Moderate to large families with consistent hot water needs
• Homes with adequate space and ventilation (such as garages or utility rooms)
• Homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint and utility bills

Key Benefits:

• Exceptional Efficiency – Uses up to 70% less energy than standard electric models
• Lower Utility Bills – Substantial long-term savings on energy costs
• Rebates and Incentives – Often qualifies for local, state, or federal energy rebates
• Environmentally Friendly – Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption

Things to Consider:

• Higher initial cost than standard tank heaters
• Requires sufficient space and airflow to operate efficiently
• May produce slight noise from the fan and compressor
• Slower recovery rate than gas systems (but sufficient for most households)
  

Not sure which type is right for your home?

Choosing the right water heater is an important decision, and our team is here to help. We’ll walk you through each option, explain the advantages of every system, and recommend the best solution based on your home, budget, and energy goals.

Call 803-781-4357 to talk with a water heater expert today.

Does On Call Offer Warranties

On Call Plumbing, Heating & Air and our trusted distributors offer a variety of manufacturer and service warranties on water heaters. Coverage details, terms, and eligibility can vary by brand and installation type. For accurate information about the warranty options available for your specific system, please contact us directly. We're happy to walk you through what’s covered and help you choose the right solution for your home.