Tank Size
80 gal
84 gal first-hour
Total Cost
$2,200
installed
Lifetime
$6,271
10 year total
Tank vs Tankless Comparison
| Tank (Selected) | Tankless |
|---|
| Upfront Cost | $2,200 | $2,700 |
| Annual Operating | $407 | $250 |
| Expected Lifespan | 10 yrs | 20 yrs |
| Lifetime Cost | $6,271 | $7,693 |
Recommended Tank Sizes by Household
1-2 People
Tank:30-40 gal
Tankless:2-3 GPM
Apartment/small home
2-3 People
Tank:40-50 gal
Tankless:3-5 GPM
Small family
3-4 People
Tank:50-65 gal
Tankless:5-7 GPM
Average family
4-5 People
Tank:65-80 gal
Tankless:7-9 GPM
Larger family
5-6 People
Tank:80+ gal
Tankless:9-11 GPM
Large family
6+ People
Tank:2 units
Tankless:11+ GPM
May need multiple units
Fuel Type Comparison
| Fuel | Cost/Unit | Tank Eff. | Tankless Eff. | Notes |
|---|
| Electric | $0.12/kWh | 92% | 99% | Widespread, easy install, higher operating cost |
| Natural GasSelected | $1.2/therm | 67% | 95% | Most common, lower operating cost |
| Propane (LP) | $2.5/gallon | 60% | 90% | Rural areas, requires tank |
| Heat Pump (Hybrid) | $0.12/kWh | 92% | 99% | 2-3x more efficient than standard electric |