Conventional water heaters, also called tank type water heaters, are the most common type which consist of an insulated tank in which water is heated and stored until needed. They come in all different sizes, with the standard sizes being40, 50 and 80 gallons.

Natural gas water heaters typically use less energy and cost less to operate than electric water heaters, but can be more expensive to install. The life expectancy of a tank water heater is 15 year but can last up to 20 years, depending on care and maintenance.  With that said, in the Flathead Valley we tend to have harder water so if you have a softener, it will help keep the maintenance cost down and extend the life of the water heater.

Pros:  Lower initial cost, easier to install, maintain and repair, cheaper to maintain

Cons:  Higher utility bills, occupy a larger space in the home, you will run out of hot water