Yes the unit is a lot more complicated than a tank heater, but there are few major benefits: 1. Endless hot water. Even when whole family takes a bath and bubble bath and whirlpool. 2. Savings on not heating lots of water you may not use. Heat only water you use. Negatives: 1. Comlexity of the unit 2. Needing to provide soft waree Our unit worked for 10 years I'say its worth it. I really dodn't have to do much. Just clean the filter. I even use hot water outside the house for kids water parties and dog washing. I love it.