Skip to main content

How to Choose a Water Heater for Your DFW Home

By the Dallas Plumber team · Reviewed by Mark A. Farley, Responsible Master Plumber (TX #M-39682)
March 28, 2026·6 min read
Modern water heater installed in a DFW home

Choosing the Right Water Heater

Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. When it fails, you need to make a quick decision. Here's how to choose the right replacement for your DFW home.

Tank vs. Tankless

Tank water heaters store 40-50 gallons of preheated water. They're the most budget-friendly option, reliable, and familiar. Most DFW homes have tank water heaters. Lifespan: 10-12 years.

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand. They never run out of hot water, last 20+ years, and save 20-30% on energy costs. But they're a bigger upfront investment and may require gas line upgrades.

Our recommendation: For most DFW homes, a standard 50-gallon tank water heater is the best value. If you have a large family (5+ people) or plan to stay in your home 10+ years, tankless is worth the investment.

Gas vs. Electric

Gas heats faster and costs less to operate in Texas (where natural gas is cheap). If your home has gas, stick with gas.

Electric is simpler to install and has no combustion concerns. Good option if your home doesn't have gas or if you're installing in a closet without ventilation.

What Size Do You Need?

Household SizeTank SizeRecovery Rate
1-2 people40 gallonStandard
3-4 people50 gallonStandard
5+ people50+ gallon or tanklessHigh recovery

Brands We Install

  • **Rheem** — Best overall value, widely available parts
  • **AO Smith** — Good mid-range option
  • **Bradford White** — Professional-grade, plumber-preferred
  • **Rinnai** — Best tankless brand
  • What Does It Cost?

    The exact price depends on the unit you choose, your home's gas and venting setup, and local permit requirements — which is why the quote starts with a photo of your existing unit rather than a number pulled from the air. Send one and we price the replacement free — no truck, no visit, no obligation. You approve the flat rate before any work starts.

    All installations include hauling your old unit, new connections, and a 1-year workmanship warranty on top of the manufacturer's warranty. Call (682) 900-4100 for a same-day visit.

    Need Plumbing or Maintenance Help?

    Same-day service across the DFW metroplex. Call or schedule online.

    CallTextPhoto quote