Tankless Water Heater

5 Responses to “Will This Tankless Water Heater Supply My Whole Home?”

1. PatPro
   January 12th, 2010 @ 7:30 am

   This model provides 1.6 GPM at a 77 degree rise. If your incoming water temperature is about 50F, you’re leaving water temperature will be about 127F (if you flow 1.6 GPM). Your shower probably flows a bit more water than 1.6 GPM unless you have a low-flow shower head. With this in mind, you will probably use about 2-2.5 GPM in your shower which means you will get a leaving water temperature well below 127F (my guess would be about 100F or so).
   Will it do your whole house? It will probably do ok if you use hot water one fixture at a time. No using the dishwasher while showering! No sink usage while showering either! Think about getting the next unit size up. Also remember the further from the faucet you install the unit, the longer the “hot water lag” and the more heated water you leave in the pipe (heated water left in the pipe is money thrown away).
   If you live in an area subject to freezing I would recommend an indoor unit. If you live in Puerto Rico or the Florida Keys, go for an exterior unit (no flue to worry about).
   Your unit will probably require a 3/4″ gas pipe so be prepared to get a plumber involved to make sure your pipes are sized correctly and your meter is big enough.
   The exhaust flue pipe kit will probably not work for most situations since they include only the minimums. If you need more flue accessories they will have to be by the same manufacturer (this might be a got-ya point in the selling).
   Also make sure you get a direct vent model so you won’t have to worry about combustion air.
   Hope this helps ya, if not check my sources below.

2. sensible
   January 12th, 2010 @ 9:33 am

   You need to check with the company for water usage tables. Be careful when buying an off brand tankless heater. This type heater is very complicated and easy to get one that will not do what you expect. If you have hard water, forget tankless. The tubing in them is very small and easily clogged. Check the warranty and any costs associated with it. Most require professional installation and maintenance. Compare to a Rinnai or Rheem heating unit.

3. Ozgood
   January 12th, 2010 @ 9:49 am

   I would go with the larger one if you can, like with any tool, get the best you can afford. Wherever your current W/H is, that’s where this one should go.

4. dk
   January 12th, 2010 @ 3:26 pm

   It should be fine provided you don’t shower and run the laundry or dishwasher at the same time. Indoor or outdoor doesn’t matter, it’s all about where your pipes are.

5. Mr Fixit
   January 12th, 2010 @ 9:41 pm

   It will work, if you only use one hot water faucet at a time. May have to wait awhile if your outlets are far from the source

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