Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Which One’s Right for You?

khull on July 1, 2025

Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Which One’s Right for You?

When it comes to choosing a water heater for your home, two popular options stand out: tankless water heaters and traditional tank water heaters. Each type has its unique advantages and considerations, and the right choice depends on your household needs, budget, and energy efficiency goals. At Good News Plumbers, serving the San Gabriel Valley and Glendora communities, we’re here to help you understand the differences so you can make the best decision.

What is a Traditional Water Heater?

A traditional water heater stores a large volume of hot water in a tank, typically ranging from 30 to 80 gallons. The water is heated continuously and kept warm until you need it. These are the most common water heaters found in homes and are known for their straightforward installation and lower upfront cost.

Pros of Traditional Water Heaters:

Lower initial purchase and installation costs
Reliable and simple technology
Provides hot water even during power outages (for gas models)

Cons of Traditional Water Heaters:

Higher energy costs due to continuous heating (standby heat loss)
Limited supply of hot water (tank size limits flow)
Takes up more space in your home

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless water heaters, also called on-demand water heaters, heat water only when you need it. Instead of storing hot water, they rapidly heat water as it flows through the unit, providing an endless supply of hot water without a bulky tank.

Pros of Tankless Water Heaters:

Energy-efficient: no standby heat loss
Unlimited hot water supply
Compact size saves space
Longer lifespan compared to traditional heaters

Cons of Tankless Water Heaters:

Higher upfront cost and installation complexity
May require upgrades to your home’s electrical system or gas line
Limited flow rate – may need multiple units for larger households

Which Water Heater is Right for Your Home?

Consider Your Household Size and Water Usage

Small to Medium Households: Tankless water heaters are ideal if you want energy savings and don’t mind a higher upfront cost.
Large Families: A traditional water heater with a large tank might be more suitable, or a combination of multiple tankless units for high demand.

Think About Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Tankless water heaters can reduce your energy bills because they only heat water when you use it. Over time, the energy savings can offset the initial higher cost. Traditional heaters, while cheaper initially, tend to have higher monthly energy costs.

Space and Installation

If space is tight, a tankless water heater’s compact design is a big advantage. However, installation may require modifications that add to costs. Traditional heaters need more room but usually have simpler installation.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Tankless water heaters generally last longer (up to 20 years) and require less maintenance. Traditional water heaters typically last 10-15 years and may need more frequent repairs.

Why Choose Good News Plumbers for Your Water Heater Needs?

At Good News Plumbers, we provide expert water heater installation, repair, and maintenance services throughout the San Gabriel Valley and Glendora areas. Whether you’re interested in switching to a tankless system or need to replace your traditional water heater, our licensed plumbers offer honest advice, competitive pricing, and professional workmanship.

Contact us today to schedule an assessment and find the perfect water heater solution for your home.

How to Spot a Hidden Water Leak Before It Becomes a Major Problem

Good News Plumbing & Drain on May 1, 2025

Water leaks can be a nightmare for homeowners—especially when they go undetected. While some leaks are obvious, like a dripping faucet or a burst pipe, others hide behind walls, under floors, or in your yard. If left unchecked, these hidden leaks can lead to costly water damage, mold growth, and skyrocketing utility bills.

If you live in San Gabriel Valley, CA or the surrounding areas, it’s important to stay ahead of plumbing problems. Here’s how to spot a hidden water leak before it turns into a major issue.

1. Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

One of the first signs of a hidden leak is an unexpected spike in your water bill. If your usage hasn’t changed but your bill keeps climbing, it’s time to investigate. A small, continuous leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month.

2. Mold or Mildew Smell

Hidden leaks behind walls or under floors often create the perfect environment for mold and mildew. If you notice a persistent musty smell in your bathroom, kitchen, or other areas of your home, it could be a sign that water is leaking where you can’t see it.

3. Stained or Warped Walls and Ceilings

Watch for water stains, bubbling paint, or warped drywall. These visual signs typically indicate water is seeping behind your walls or ceiling. Even minor discoloration can be a red flag for a bigger problem brewing.

4. Damp or Spongy Floors

If your flooring feels unusually damp or soft underfoot, there could be a leak underneath. In homes with hardwood or laminate floors, leaks can cause warping, cupping, or buckling over time.

5. Reduced Water Pressure

A sudden drop in water pressure could signal a hidden leak in your pipes. While it could also point to sediment buildup, if you notice this change along with other symptoms, don’t ignore it.

6. Sounds of Running Water

Hearing water running when no taps are open or toilets are flushing? That’s often a telltale sign of a hidden leak. Listen closely near walls, floors, and appliances like your water heater or washing machine.

7. Puddles in the Yard or Foundation Issues

Outdoor leaks, especially in the main water line, can cause soggy patches in your yard or even cracks in your foundation. If you notice wet areas that never seem to dry—especially during dry weather—it’s worth checking out.

Why Prompt Leak Detection Matters in San Gabriel Valley Homes

The San Gabriel Valley area includes many older homes with aging plumbing systems. Older pipes are more prone to corrosion and cracks, increasing the risk of hidden leaks. What might start as a minor issue can quickly escalate into water damage, structural problems, and mold infestations.

At Good News Plumbers, we specialize in leak detection and repair in San Gabriel Valley and surrounding areas, including Glendora, Covina, Pasadena, Azusa, and more. Our experienced technicians use advanced tools like electronic leak detectors and thermal imaging to find and fix leaks fast—without tearing up your home.

What to Do If You Suspect a Leak

If you think you might have a hidden leak, don’t wait. Here’s what to do:

Turn off your water at the main shutoff valve.
Check your water meter and record the reading. Wait two hours (with all water off) and check again. If the reading changes, you likely have a leak.
Call a professional plumber to locate and repair the leak.

Trust Good News Plumbers for Leak Detection in San Gabriel Valley

Protect your home from hidden water damage by staying alert to the signs of leaks. If you’re unsure or want peace of mind, schedule an inspection with Good News Plumbers. We’re proud to serve San Gabriel Valley, CA and surrounding communities with honest service, expert workmanship, and fast response times.

📞 Call us today or request service online to catch leaks early and protect your home!

Why You Should Consider Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

khull on April 1, 2025

Why You Should Consider Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

When it comes to plumbing upgrades in your home, one of the best investments you can make is switching to a tankless water heater. Traditional water heaters have been the standard for decades, but many homeowners are now realizing the numerous benefits of going tankless. If you’re looking for a way to save space, energy, and money, upgrading to a tankless water heater could be the perfect solution for your home. In this blog, we’ll explore why making the switch to a tankless water heater is a great choice.

1. Endless Hot Water Supply

One of the most appealing benefits of a tankless water heater is the endless supply of hot water. Traditional water heaters have a limited capacity, meaning once the hot water in the tank runs out, you have to wait for it to refill and reheat. This can be especially frustrating when multiple people in your household are trying to take showers or use hot water at the same time.

Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water on demand, ensuring that you’ll never run out of hot water. Whether it’s a long shower, washing dishes, or filling the bathtub, your tankless water heater can provide hot water continuously as long as you need it.

2. Energy Efficiency

Traditional water heaters store large quantities of water and keep it heated around the clock, even when you’re not using it. This means that a significant amount of energy is wasted just to maintain the temperature of the water, leading to higher energy bills. Tankless water heaters, however, only heat water when it’s needed, drastically reducing energy consumption.

Because of this on-demand heating, tankless water heaters can be up to 34% more energy-efficient than traditional models. Not only will this save you money on your utility bills, but it’s also an environmentally friendly choice since it helps reduce your carbon footprint.

3. Space-Saving Design

Traditional water heaters take up a considerable amount of space, often occupying large areas in basements, closets, or garages. This can be an issue, especially for those with limited space in their homes. Tankless water heaters are much smaller in size, typically about the size of a small suitcase, and can be mounted on the wall, freeing up valuable floor space.

This compact design is ideal for homeowners who want to maximize their living space or those who have small homes or apartments where space is at a premium.

4. Long-Term Savings

While the initial cost of purchasing and installing a tankless water heater may be higher than a traditional water heater, the long-term savings make it a worthwhile investment. Due to their energy efficiency and the fact that they last much longer than traditional models (typically 20 years or more, compared to 10-15 years for conventional water heaters), you’ll see a return on your investment over time.

Additionally, tankless water heaters require less maintenance and fewer repairs, which means you’ll save money on service calls and repairs in the future.

5. Better Water Quality

Traditional water heaters can accumulate sediment and minerals over time, which can affect the water quality coming from your taps. Tankless water heaters, however, are less likely to experience these issues since they don’t store water. This means you’ll have access to cleaner, higher-quality water.

6. Environmentally Friendly

If you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact, upgrading to a tankless water heater is an excellent choice. As mentioned earlier, tankless water heaters consume less energy, reducing your home’s carbon emissions. Plus, because they last longer and require fewer replacements, less waste ends up in landfills.

7. A Smart Investment for Your Home

Upgrading to a tankless water heater can increase the value of your home. Many potential buyers are drawn to energy-efficient upgrades, and a tankless water heater can be an appealing feature for anyone looking to purchase a home. It’s a smart investment that not only benefits you during your time in the home but also makes it more marketable when you’re ready to sell.

Conclusion

Switching to a tankless water heater can offer many advantages, from unlimited hot water to energy savings and a smaller environmental footprint. While the upfront costs may be higher, the long-term savings in energy and maintenance make it a smart investment for homeowners looking to upgrade their plumbing systems. If you’re considering an upgrade, the experts at Good News Plumbers can help you determine if a tankless water heater is the right fit for your home. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an installation!