Tankless companies say you'll save a fortune. Call (201) 676-3099 or book a free estimate.
Tankless companies say you'll save a fortune. Tank guys say tankless is a scam. Both are selling something. Here's the math we actually run with customers — no commissions involved.
HEAD TO HEAD
| Tank | Tankless | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost (NJ, typical) | $1,800–$3,500 | $4,500–$8,500 |
| Lifespan | 8–12 years | 20+ years |
| Efficiency edge | baseline | up to 34% less energy (U.S. DOE) |
| Hot water supply | 40–75 gal, then wait | endless, on demand |
| Floor space | ~9 sq ft | 0 — wall-mounted |
| Swap time | often same-day | 1–2 days (gas + venting) |
The 20-year math
Over 20 years you'll buy two tanks (roughly $5,000–$7,000 total with today's pricing) or one tankless ($4,500–$8,500) — plus the tankless saves up to a third on gas the whole time. For a family of 4+ in a gas home, tankless usually wins the long game. For a small household or an electric-only home, a quality tank is often the smarter check to write.
When we say "don't go tankless"
- Your gas line can't feed it. Tankless units pull up to 199,000 BTU — 4× a tank. If your line needs a major upsize, that changes the math (we'll price it honestly).
- You use very little hot water. The efficiency edge shrinks; payback stretches past 15 years.
- You're selling within 2–3 years. Put the money where buyers see it — like the bathroom.
One warning either way: water heaters need a permit and inspection in NJ. Unpermitted installs surface at home sale and can void insurance claims. Ours are permitted, always — it's in the fixed price.
Need water heater replacement near you?
If you searched “water heater replacement near me” anywhere in New Jersey, that's us. First Call Contracting is based in Paramus and sends its own licensed crew to all 21 counties — written price before work starts, no deposit, a real person on the phone 24/7.
Want both numbers for YOUR house?
Tank and tankless quoted side by side, in writing, free. No hot water right now? Often fixed same-day.
Or call Alex: (201) 676-3099