When it’s time to replace your water heater, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a tankless or traditional (tank-style) system. Each has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your home’s size, water usage, and long-term goals.

If you live in Ontario, Covina, or surrounding Southern California areas, the experienced team at Jig Plumbing can help you make the right call for your comfort, efficiency, and budget. Here’s what to know before you decide.

Understanding the Basics

Traditional Water Heaters

A traditional water heater stores and heats a large volume of water—typically 30 to 50 gallons—inside a tank. When you turn on the hot water, it draws from that tank until it’s empty. Once it runs out, you’ll have to wait for it to heat back up.

Pros:

Lower upfront cost
Simple to install and replace
Reliable for households with steady water use

Cons:

Higher energy use since water is heated 24/7
Limited hot water supply
Larger footprint, requiring more space

Tankless Water Heaters

Also known as “on-demand” systems, tankless water heaters heat water only when you need it. There’s no storage tank—cold water runs through a heat exchanger and is instantly heated by gas or electricity.

Pros:

Endless hot water on demand
Energy-efficient operation (no standby heating)
Compact size ideal for smaller homes or condos
Longer lifespan—often 20+ years with proper maintenance

Cons:

Higher installation cost
May require upgrades to gas lines or electrical systems
Limited flow rate if multiple fixtures are used simultaneously

Which Is Better for Southern California Homes?

For Efficiency and Energy Savings

Tankless water heaters clearly win here. They can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%, which is especially valuable in areas like Ontario, Covina, Chino, and Corona, where homeowners are looking for ways to cut utility costs.

For Larger Families

Traditional tank water heaters can still be the better choice for families who use multiple showers or appliances at once. They deliver consistent performance for high-demand households without flow restrictions.

For Smaller Homes or Tight Spaces

If you live in an apartment, condo, or smaller single-family home in Rancho Cucamonga or Covina, a tankless water heater can free up valuable space while delivering reliable hot water.

For Long-Term Value

Although tankless units have higher upfront costs, they often make up for it with lower monthly energy bills and longer lifespans—making them a smart investment for homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Both types of systems require regular maintenance:

Traditional units should be flushed once a year to remove sediment.
Tankless units need descaling and filter cleaning to prevent mineral buildup.

In Southern California’s hard water conditions, regular maintenance from a professional plumber like Jig Plumbing helps extend the life of your water heater and keep it running efficiently.

Choosing the Right Water Heater

When deciding between tankless and traditional systems, consider these factors:

Your household size and usage patterns
Available space for installation
Energy efficiency goals
Budget and long-term plans

At Jig Plumbing, we’ll evaluate your home’s needs, water demand, and plumbing setup to recommend the best option—whether that’s a high-efficiency tankless system or a reliable tank-style unit.

Conclusion

Both tankless and traditional water heaters have their place in today’s homes. If you’re in Ontario, Covina, Chino, Corona, or Rancho Cucamonga, the experts at Jig Plumbing can help you compare options, handle installation, and keep your system performing at its best for years to come.

Contact Jig Plumbing today to schedule a consultation or water heater estimate. Your comfort and hot water reliability are our top priorities.