Boilers heat water quickly and are available in both tank and tankless versions, just like water heaters. However, unlike water heaters, some boiler systems are equipped with a hot water tank. (Note: Tanks contain cold water in the case of boilers, while cylinders contain hot water)., When deciding between a water heater and a boiler for your home, it is important to consider a few factors. Below is a detailed comparison of these two systems to help you make an informed decision. 1. Lifespan: Water heaters vs boilers typically last 8-12 years for tank models and 20 years or more for tankless models., If you’re keen on keeping energy costs down, deciding between a water heater with a heat pump and a boiler may be the way to go. Most choices: Water heaters. Life Span. Boilers can last 25 years or more, while combination boilers last about 10 to 15 years. Eventually, you’ll notice problems like odd noises, radiators taking a long time to , , , .