Chantilly, VA Water Heater: Tankless vs 75-Gallon for Large Families
Hi, I’m Dennis Rollins, owner of Veteran Plumbing Services and a retired U.S. Navy Chief.
If your Chantilly home runs out of hot water during back-to-back showers, sports practices, and laundry, you are likely deciding between a tankless unit and a larger 75-gallon tank.
Here is how I help families choose the right system.
The Short Answer
- Choose tankless if you want long, back-to-back showers and have the gas supply, venting path, and budget for a high-output unit.
- Choose a 75-gallon high-recovery tank if you want a lower upfront cost, a fast swap, and simple maintenance.
How I Size Hot Water For Big Households
What I Look At
- Number of showers that run at the same time
- Laundry and dishwasher during peak times
- Bathroom count and showerhead flow rates
- Gas line size, vent route, and space in the utility area
- Incoming water temperature in winter lowers the tankless output
My Rule of Thumb
If you routinely run two showers plus a dishwasher at once, a high-BTU tankless or a 75-gallon high-recovery tank is usually the right starting point. From there, we fine-tune.
Tankless Water Heaters
Pros
- Endless hot water for back-to-back use
- Saves space on the wall
- Higher efficiency compared to standard tanks
- Optional recirculation for near-instant hot water at key fixtures
Watchouts
- Needs proper gas line sizing and dedicated venting
- Output drops in winter because incoming water is colder
- Annual descaling is essential in our hard-water area
- Electric tankless often needs a major panel upgrade, so gas is preferred
75-Gallon High-Recovery Tanks
Pros
- Lower upfront cost than premium tankless
- Straightforward replacement in most closets and basements
- Strong recovery rate models can handle morning rushes
- Simple maintenance and familiar parts
Watchouts
- Larger footprint
- Finite supply if several fixtures run for a long time
- Shorter average lifespan than many tankless units
Plumbing Installation Details That Matter In Chantilly
What My Team Handles
- Proper permit and inspection for Fairfax County
- Pan, drain line, and seismic strapping where required
- Expansion tank and PRV check to control pressure spikes
- Gas sizing review and safe vent routing
- Haul-away of the old heater and clean jobsite
Options To Improve Everyday Comfort
- Recirculation loop or pump for faster hot water at far bathrooms
- Mixing valve to safely raise stored tank temperature and extend runtime
- Point-of-use heaters for remote sinks or in-law suites
- Leak detection with auto-shutoff for units above finished spaces
Lifespan, Maintenance, and Operating Costs
Tankless
- Long service life when maintained
- Annual descaling keeps efficiency high
- Best for families with heavy, frequent hot water use
75-Gallon Tank
- Solid value with simpler upkeep
- Anode rod checks help extend life
- Great when budget and speed matter
My Bottom Line
If your family stacks showers and laundry in tight windows, an appropriately sized gas tankless with recirculation is often the comfort winner.
If you want a reliable upgrade with less complexity and cost, a high-recovery 75-gallon tank is a smart move.
Call Me And I’ll Size It In Minutes
I can size your system by phone and confirm install details on site.
I serve Chantilly and all of Fairfax County.
Veteran Discount Program available for Active Duty and Veterans.
24/7 emergency support.
📞 Call Veteran Plumbing Services today at 703-791-1339.
📞 Schedule online Veteran Plumbing Services Anytime — 24 hours a day.
FAQ
Will a single tankless run two showers and a dishwasher at once?
Yes, if it is a high-BTU model sized for winter conditions and set up with the right recirculation plan.
Do I need a bigger gas line for tankless?
Often yes. I check your meter and branch lines to make sure supply is safe and steady.
Is electric tankless a good idea?
Usually not for whole-home use here. It can require major electrical upgrades. Gas tankless is the better fit for most homes.
Can a 75-gallon tank keep up with a big family?
A high-recovery model often can. Pair it with a mixing valve to extend usable hot water time.
Do you pull permits in Fairfax County?
Yes. I handle permits and the inspection so your install passes cleanly.
