ERNIEGRAVES | Process Measurement & Control

What Size Gas Line For Tankless Water Heater

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Things to consider before installing a tankless

It is possible to make significant savings by installing a whole-house filtration system, particularly if you have turbid well water. If you have some basic plumbing abilities, they are quite simple to install and may assist to decrease silt collection as well as extend the life of all your plumbing fixtures and appliances. They are also rather inexpensive. Although some dissolved minerals may still collect in the tank over time, depending on the vigor with which your filtration system operates, the amounts should be insignificant.

Gas line size for tankless water heater?

It’s possible that no one is getting it right, but some people are getting it horribly wrong. Despite the fact that it draws in 180,000 BTU, it is vulnerable to pressure changes caused by other devices turning on and off on the same branch. Best case scenario, it would be equipped with its own “home run” line that tees off very close to the regulator/meter, and it would have enough BTU capacity to last the length of the run (which includes adding a “equivalent length” of approximately 1.5 feet for every 90 degree fitting (tee or ell) along its path): The combined output of a gas dryer and a gas cooktop is about 50-70,000 BTU/hr, the water heater is 180,000 BTU/hr, therefore you need a least of 250K of capacity on a shared line, and any tees off to the other load should be positioned within a few of feet of the meter/regulator.

The half-inch line will not cut it even at a distance of 2′ from the regulator, despite the fact that the connection to the unit is half-inch in diameter.

Even 1 is a good start “If it is shared by other appliances and there is more than 20 equivalent feet of gas line between the appliance and the regulator, it may not cut it.

Although the quotation for 1″ is the most accurate, you should measure it yourself and, if it’s even somewhat near, have them re-price it for 1-1/4″ plumbed as a home run so you won’t have to worry about it malfunctioning when the furnace goes on while you’re in the shower.

To comparison, add everything up, including the 180K for the Navien, and then subtract it from the BTU rating of the meterregulator.

Five Profitable Tips for Tankless Water Heater Gas Lines

Specifying or installing a tankless water heater is an excellent approach to increase homeowner happiness while also lowering energy use for water heating in many homes today. The fact that they heat water on demand means that they do not suffer from the standby losses associated with storage tank water heaters and may provide an unending supply of warm water. However, while gas tankless devices only need to be activated when hot water is required, their gas consumption must rapidly increase when they are required to satisfy high hot water needs.

Rick Rinnai’s director of business and product development, Joe Holliday, shares five recommendations for keeping your tankless water heater in peak operating condition.

  • Installing a tankless water heater is an excellent approach to increase homeowner happiness while also lowering energy use for water heating in many households. The fact that they heat water on demand means that they do not suffer from the standby losses associated with storage tank water heaters and may offer an infinite supply of hot water. Despite the fact that gas tankless units only need to be activated when hot water is required, their gas consumption must rapidly increase when they are required to satisfy high hot water demands. In order to ensure a correct installation of the gas lines that feed the tankless unit, it is critical that all contractors, remodelers, and installers understand the necessary processes for doing so. Joe Holliday, director of business and product development for tankless water heater maker Rinnai, shares five suggestions for keeping your water heater operating at peak performance.

It is critical to select the correct size tankless water heater to guarantee that it operates at peak efficiency at all times. The installer may be undersized if it isn’t doing all of the apps correctly or paying attention to the entire system load, according to Holliday. In the summer, a builder could install a tankless water heater, and it would function perfectly. The problem may be that, when winter arrives, and the furnace is running, and they’ve turned on the stove and everything else, the gas supply for the entire system may be insufficient.

  1. What kind of gas is it?
  2. 2.
  3. 3.
  4. 4.
  5. 5.
  6. A copy of the Pane Technical Pocket Guide, which serves as a quick reference guide for you and your technicians, should be obtained and brought to the jobsite for reference purposes.
  • It is possible that you may just need to install a three-quarter-inch gas line. Aside from the calculations, Rinnai frequently suggests that builders just install the bigger three-quarter-inch lines. It is not an iffy matter or question, argues Holliday, because you will be certain to have the gas load you require in this manner. This is an excellent practice to follow, particularly for builders, because the difference in cost between running a half-inch and a three-quarter-inch is quite little up front. In contrast, retrofitting a bigger gas line later on may cost several hundred dollars or more.

According to Holliday, under some building codes, such as California’s Title 24, builders are required to have their homes prepared for the higher gas load of a high-efficiency appliance. As a result, even if they don’t immediately install the high-efficiency water heater, they will almost certainly be required to install the larger gas lines.

  • If accessing the natural gas line is difficult or expensive, propane may be a viable option. Many builders are unaware that propane can be found on virtually every sort of building site, making gas tankless water heaters a viable option even in areas where natural gas is not accessible, according to Holliday. “They may collaborate with their local propane firm to not only bury underground tanks, but also to install underground pipes in large projects so that it functions more or less like a natural gas system.” Because propane is easily available, it may be used to educate people about high-efficiency goods, which is important for builders.”

Most tankless units may be converted from natural gas to propane or vice versa in the field, allowing developers to establish a new community using propane and then switch over to natural gas when natural gas becomes available.

  • Flex pipes can help to expedite and simplify the installation process. When it comes to running gas lines, you are no longer restricted to permanent iron pipes. The use of flexible gas pipe, such as corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST), can make the process of making bends and connecting much easier.
  • Make sure to account for gas lines in your design. Many tankless water heaters may be installed without the requirement for a gas connection to be routed all the way around your house. Builders can save time and money by putting the tankless unit on an outside wall or even outside the building. This allows for shorter gas line runs as well as easier ventilation. They can be placed just about anyplace because of their modest size, according to Holliday. If you’re putting them outside, you may put them near the gas meter, which is a very short distance.”

Now that you’ve mastered the art of installing gas lines, you should become an expert on the many gas water heater venting alternatives available to you.

1/2″ gas on Tankless?

The next section will begin with a recognition that you are probably more knowledgeable about the technical elements of this issue than I am. My expertise is based on my plumbing experience as well as information from manufacturers. So. 1 cubic foot of natural gas equals 1,000 BTU The amount of gas required for a burner rated at 150,000btu is around 150 cubic feet. When it comes to this calculation, delivery pressure and pipe size are completely immaterial. No matter what delivery technology is used, 150,000btu cannot be achieved without at least 150 cubic feet of natural gas.

  1. Take note of the image from Navien’s installation instructions.
  2. Since the tankless firms understood that they had a fundamental difficulty with marketing their product, they have worked to resolve it.
  3. Solution?
  4. Accordingly, in the event that an unvented tankless unit is installed at the end of a long pipe run and needs 100,000btu more than was originally intended, the stove and furnace will have at the very least limited functionality and may perhaps fail completely.
  5. Also, they claim that 1/2″ pipe can be used, however the minimum pipe size required for the gas connection is 3/4″.
  6. Because the marketing department and the engineering department never share a lunch together.
  7. What is the reason behind this?
  8. There is no truth to the entire marketing fraud with Navien (and now Rinnai, with others to come).
  9. Just not good enough salespeople to persuade me that an additional 100,000btu-150,000btu of gas demand can be added to a system without extending the pipe widths running from the new fixture back to the meter, to put it mildly.
  10. The other hand, they are undoubtedly more than equipped to market it to the general public, and once again we are left to play the role of bad guys.

We may then talk about how Navien instantly voids the guarantee if you have not tested and certified that the water conditions reach near Utopian standards of hardness, turbidity, and other characteristics.

Tankless Water Heaters – Frequently Asked Questions

  • In what ways are WaiWela and Paloma tankless water heaters different from one another
  • What is a tankless water heater and how does it work? What is the operation of a Paloma/WaiWela tankless water heater? Is it possible to install a tankless water heater in the same location as my existing tank water heater? In the case of tankless water heaters, what is the Energy Factor? Do they qualify for any tax breaks or deductions? Do tankless water heaters truly offer lower operating costs than traditional water heaters? Why are tankless water heaters more expensive than traditional tank water heaters
  • How can I determine the proper size of a tankless water heater for my particular application? With a tankless water heater, what kinds of safety features are included? How well do tankless water heaters perform when dealing with hard water? Is it possible for me to install my Paloma/WaiWela by myself? An overview of what is normally included in a basic tankless installation is provided below. Is there a necessity for specific ventilation? Is it necessary for me to update my gas line? Is it true that a tankless water heater consumes more gas? So, if my tankless water heater is powered by natural gas, why do I require electricity to run it as well? Is it possible to put my heater in a mobile or prefabricated home? What about a boat or a recreational vehicle? Can I expect to have rapid hot water at all of my home’s taps and showers after installing a tankless water heater? My Paloma/WaiWela is a natural gas-fueled vehicle. I’d like to move my unit to my new home, which will be powered by LP gas. Is it possible to convert a natural gas water heater to an LP gas water heater? How accurate is the claim that a tankless water heater will endure for up to 20 years
  • What type of maintenance should I perform on my PH2-28RDVSN? For the purpose of heating my pool and hot tub, I’d want to install a Paloma/Wai/Wela. Which unit would you recommend
  • Do you provide a battery backup system for my Paloma/WaiWela
  • And what is the cost of a unit? My PH24MDN is a fantastic piece of equipment. What is the procedure for getting servicing for my Paloma Legacy tankless water heater? What is the best way to obtain service for my Paloma/WaiWela? What kind of customer service does Low Energy Systems provide for their tankless water heaters?
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Please go here if you have any queries regarding our firm (return policy, dealers, etc.).

QUESTION

The difference between WaiWela tankless water heaters and Paloma tankless water heaters is as follows: The only difference is the name; below the cover, they are the identical machine. In Hawaiian, the word WaiWela (pronounced Vi Vela) means “hot water.” Designed and produced by Paloma in Nagoya, Japan, the center for tankless technology, WaiWela tankless water heaters are available worldwide. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

What is a tankless water heater and how does it work? In contrast to tank water heaters, which heat water on demand, tankless water heaters heat only as much as is requested by the user. Traditional tank-type water heaters operate continuously to heat water, resulting in significant standby heat loss that is extremely expensive. Consider the example of your automobile. You don’t leave it running all night so that you may use it for your daily commute to work in the morning. When the hot water is switched on at the source, cold water is sent through a pipe to the tankless unit for storage.

Consequently, tankless water heaters provide a steady flow of hot water, and when properly built, they may provide enough hot water for numerous simultaneous uses in both residential and commercial applications.

QUESTION

What is the operation of a Paloma/WaiWela tankless water heater? Unlike tankless water heaters (which are available in both electric and gas models), tank type water heaters store hot water and heat it whenever it is needed, regardless of whether or not the water is being used. A hot water faucet opens, and gas is forced through several orifices to a stainless steel burner, which combines gas with air and spreads flames over a copper heat exchanger to provide hot water. During the process of passing through the heat exchanger, the water is heated to the desired temperature that you have digitally specified in the thermostat.

As soon as the faucet is shut off, the tankless water heater enters standby mode and does not work until hot water is required again.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is it possible to install a tankless water heater in the same location as my existing tank water heater? Tankless water heaters are small and simple to set up, making them ideal for small spaces. Installing a Direct Vent (DV) unit in an indoor setting is highly recommended by us. Tankless water heaters from Paloma can be put in a utility room, garage, basement, attic, or, preferably, on an outside wall of a home or business.

Instead of taking up valuable floor space, a tankless water heater is positioned on the wall to save space. Any room can have a digital temperature control installed adjacent to the unit or in any other location. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

In the case of tankless water heaters, what is the Energy Factor? Do they qualify for any tax breaks or deductions? Paloma/WaiWela tankless water heaters have an Energy Factor of 0.82, which is among the lowest available. They may also be eligible for local utility rebates as well as the Federal Tax Credit, which may cover up to 30 percent of the entire cost and installation, or up to $1500, depending on their location. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Do tankless water heaters truly offer lower operating costs than traditional water heaters? Paloma/WaiWela tankless water heaters have an Energy Factor of 0.82, which is among the lowest available. The Energy Factor of the majority of tank-type water heaters is 0.65. The fact that tankless water heaters have a higher EF is one of the reasons why they are significantly less expensive to operate. Not to mention the fact that tankless water heaters do not require a pilot light, do not suffer from standby heat loss, and emit minimal levels of NOx.

QUESTION

Why are tankless water heaters more expensive than traditional tank water heaters? To put it another way, you get what you pay for. Generally speaking, tankless water heaters are meant to survive for more than 15-20 years and are constructed of copper and stainless steel. Tankless water heaters are more expensive since the venting system must be made of CATIII stainless steel. Take note that tax credits and utility rebates are available to help you cover the cost of purchasing and installing a tankless water heating system.

When you utilize a tankless water heater, your running expenses will be cheaper, and you will save money in the long run.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

How can I determine the proper size of a tankless water heater for my particular application? If you have any questions, please contact us at 800-873-3507 or sales@lowenergysystems.com, and we would be pleased to assist you in selecting the unit that is most suited for your needs. Before contacting us, please consider the following questions and answers:

  • What is your preferred energy source? Natural gas, propane gas, and electricity are all available. What is the weather like where the device will be installed? Climates that are warm and cold
  • The approximate temperature of the entering water
  • How many restrooms are there
  • There is a shower with many shower heads, is there? Does the water heater have any faucets that are more than 25 feet away from it? Is there an external wall that might be used to vent a gas unit? the approximate distance between the gas meter and the water heater
  • And The gas line’s internal diameter is measured. Electrical current entering the building where an electric unit will be put
  • Voltage that is available

For example, PH2-20 units can normally provide one standard hot water function; PH2-25 units can typically provide two standard hot water functions; and PH2-28 units can typically provide three or more hot water functions. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

With a tankless water heater, what kinds of safety features are included? Founded more than 30 years ago, Paloma was the first tankless water heater manufacturer to join the United States market, and the company continues to be a leader in the development of safe gas technology. Tankless water heaters from Paloma/WaiWela are equipped with safety measures that are not found on any other tankless water heater on the market. The ICAD (which monitors combustion), the Overheat Limit Wrap (which detects overheating), the Flame Failure Monitor (which assures correct firing and identifies flame failure), and the Anti-Scald Protection are examples of such safety measures (temperature controller to prevent scalding).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

How well do tankless water heaters perform when dealing with hard water? When the water is hard, lime scale has a propensity to accumulate in the water distribution system. Over time, this reduces the tankless water heater’s ability to work to its full potential. We recommend that hard water be softened or filtered before using the water. A code (1L) will appear on the digital remote control of your Paloma or WaiWela, indicating that the tankless water heater needs to be descaled. When lime scale builds up in the water lines, we sell the Un-Clog-It Kit to remove it.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is it possible for me to install my Paloma/WaiWela by myself? Yes. Before purchasing a device, we recommend that you first download and read the installation documentation provided with it. Before installing your unit, make sure you understand all of the specifications for gas lines, venting, and electrical needs. If you require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will assist you throughout the process. In addition, the majority of plumbers are competent of installing a tankless water heater.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Are Paloma and WaiWela systems easy to install? Yes. Before purchasing a device, we recommend that you first download and read the installation instructions. Before installing your unit, make sure you understand the gas line size, venting, and electrical requirements. Feel free to contact us if you need assistance; we’ll be happy to assist you. It is also possible to have a tankless water heater installed by the majority of plumbing professionals. If the warranty is not installed correctly, it will not be honored.

  • Remove your old tank-style water heater from the house. Install the new Paloma/WaiWela tankless water heater
  • Install CATIII stainless steel venting in the right location
  • Install WaiWela Tankless Installation Valves (TIVs) in the tankless installation system. Electrified power outlets (a 120V power cable is included)
  • Upgrade to a minimum 3/4″ gas line
  • Water supply lines, both hot and cold

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is there a necessity for specific ventilation? Tankless water heaters from Paloma/WaiWela require specialized Category III stainless steel venting to operate properly. You are unable to combine this appliance with any other. Because the expense of Category III stainless steel may quickly add up, we propose that you install and vent your Paloma/WaiWela through an outside wall to save money. As part of our tankless water heater installation services, we provide vertical and horizontal venting kits, in addition to an extensive selection of CatIII stainless steel venting.

QUESTION

Is it necessary for me to update my gas line? Is it true that a tankless water heater consumes more gas? The internal diameter of the smallest gas pipe is 3 inches. For faster and more effective heating, tankless water heaters use greater BTUs and require a gas line with a minimum diameter of 3 4 in order to work. This does not imply that a tankless water heater consumes more gas than a conventional water heater. BTUs are required in greater quantities for tankless devices since they heat water on demand (or they operate on high heat).

Tanks, on the other hand, require a continual supply of gas since they are always heating water (or operating at a low temperature). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Are there any upgrades that I should make to my natural gas system? How much extra gas is consumed by a tankless water heater? Three-quarter-inch internal diameter is the smallest gas line size. Tankless water heaters use greater BTUs to heat the water more quickly and effectively, and they require a minimum 3″ gas line to function properly. This does not imply that a tankless water heater consumes more gas than a traditional water heater. BTUs are required in greater quantities for tankless devices since they heat water as needed (or they operate on high heat).

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For their part, tanks require a continuous supply of gas since they are continually heating water (or operating at a low temperature).

QUESTION

Is it possible to put my heater in a mobile or prefabricated home? What about a boat or a recreational vehicle? Unfortunately, most tankless water heaters are not compatible with mobile homes, recreational vehicles, or boats. Installing in these applications voids any guarantee that may have been provided. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is it possible to put a heater in a mobile home or constructed residence? A boat or an RV, for instance. Unfortunately, most tankless water heaters are not designed to be put in mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and boats. This will void any warranty that may have been provided. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507.

QUESTION

My Paloma/WaiWela is a natural gas-fueled vehicle. I’d like to move my unit to my new home, which will be powered by LP gas. Is it possible to convert a natural gas water heater to an LP gas water heater? No. It is preferable to install a unit that is specifically designed for the gas source in question. Installing a natural gas unit in a residence that utilizes LP gas, and vice versa, is never a good idea. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is it true that a tankless water heater may survive for up to 20 years without being replaced? Yes. Tankless water heaters are constructed with a stainless steel burner and a copper heat exchanger to ensure long-term performance. Tank-type heaters keep water in storage all of the time, causing it to corrode. The actual performance life of tankless water heaters is dependent on the quality of the water used, the amount of water used, the installation environment, and the amount of recommended maintenance.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

What type of maintenance should I perform on my PH2-28RDVSN? We recommend that you use the Un-Clog-It Kit to cleanse your tankless water heater. Hard water, which can produce scale and lime buildup depending on the water quality in your location, can have a negative impact on the performance and longevity of your water heater.

The electronic remote control for your tankless water heater will show (code 1L) when or what maintenance has to be performed on the water heater. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

For the purpose of heating my pool and hot tub, I’d want to install a Paloma/Wai/Wela. In your opinion, which unit is the best? In order to prevent damage to your pool or hot tub, we do not advocate using a Paloma/WaiWela unit or any other tankless water heater. The chemicals are harmful and will significantly reduce the lifespan of a tankless water heater. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

Is there a battery backup system available for my Paloma/WaiWela rental? Using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is highly recommended. UPS units may be obtained at most local retail electronics stores, as well as through a variety of internet suppliers. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

My PH24MDN is a fantastic piece of equipment. Can you tell me how I can have my Paloma Legacy tankless water heater repaired? Despite the fact that Paloma no longer produces the older Legacy models (PH5, PH6, PH12, PH16, and PH24), replacement parts are still available for these machines. With a complete service repair facility, we have the capability of repairing and rebuilding virtually any device. For additional information, please contact us at 800-873-3507 or sales@tanklesswaterheaters.com.

QUESTION

What is the best way to obtain service for my Paloma/WaiWela? To begin, contact the original installer or plumber who installed your equipment for servicing. If you purchased your unit from Low Energy Systems, we will provide you with FREE technical assistance on any and all of the units that you purchase. It is important that you have the model number and serial number accessible when you contact 800-873-3507. Our technicians can usually assist you through the servicing and repair process over the phone.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT 1-800-873-3507 (toll free).

QUESTION

What kind of customer service does Low Energy Systems provide for their tankless water heaters? Yes! We know these units like the back of our hands after 40 years of tankless expertise. Technical assistance is provided by Low Energy Systems at no additional charge for any tankless water heaters that we sell. We may be reached by phone at 800-873-3507, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MST, or by email at sales@lowenergysystems.com. Avoid waiting on hold for long periods of time—a live person is waiting to take your call!

We provide energy savings, competitive pricing, endless hot water, more than 42 years of experience, and free lifetime technical assistance as a result of our innovative technology.

and 4 p.m.

Read This Before You Buy a Tankless Water Heater

Consider the following: The method used by the majority of houses in this nation to heat water is ridiculously inefficient. Every year, we fill up large storage tanks of 40- to 50-gallon capacity with water and then continuously pump energy into them to ensure that we have hot water available anytime we want it. But, unfortunately, this is not always the case. The wait for the tank to reheat might be lengthy if a teenager is taking a long shower or the spouse is enjoying a long soak in the tub.

Then there are the niggling concerns such as: Is it clogged with silt that consumes energy? Is there a chance of a leak? Both of these worries are fair given the fact that tanks often fail between 8 and 12 years.

Tankless Water Heater Installation: Is It Worth It?

Investing in a tankless water heater has a number of benefits, as detailed above. It creates hot water just when you use it and for as long as you require it, resulting in a reduction of 27 to 50% in fuel expenses when compared to tank-type heaters. (A typical gas-fired tank wastes 40 to 50% of the fuel it burns, according to the manufacturer.) As a result, there is virtually little danger of a catastrophic leak occurring because there is no tank to collapse. Furthermore, since their introduction in the United States in the 1990s, tankless heaters have become increasingly sophisticated, with features such as built-in recirculating pumps (which provide “instant” hot water) and wireless connectivity, which alerts you via smartphone when a unit requires servicing.

Our tankless water heater guide will explain how they function, what you should know before purchasing one (and before the installation comes), and the idiosyncrasies of how they operate so that you won’t be caught off guard if you decide to go tankless.

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?

Doug Adams created the illustration.

  1. It all starts with the first turn of the hot-water faucet (1). A flow sensor (2) detects the presence of water entering the heater and sends a signal to the control panel, causing the heater to begin generating hot water. During operation of a natural-gas-fueled unit, thecontrol panel (3) activates thefan (4), which pulls in outside air, opens the gas valve (5), which allows the gas to flow into the unit, and ignites the burner (6). In order to transmit heat from the flames to water passing through the exchanger’s tubing, a heat exchanger (number 7) is used. The mixing valve (8) regulates the temperature of the superheated water that exits the exchanger. Whenever the temperature sensor (9) detects water temperatures that are too high or too low for the intended setting, the panel will modify the gas valve, the mixing valve, and the flow-regulating water valve (10) in accordance with the results. Ventilation is provided by a sealedvent (11) (or a couple of vents) via a roof or exterior wall, which removes exhaust gases and supplies combustion air to the burner.

Several people were thanked for their contributions: Phillip Maxwell, Residential Product Manager, Rheem; Eric Manzano, Product Training Supervisor, Noritz; Joe Holliday, Senior Vice President, Product and Business Development, Rinnai; and Fred Molina, Water Heater Products Manager, Bosch Thermotechnology

What to Know About Tankless Water Heaters

Thanks to Noritz for the use of his photo.

How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost?

Prices range from approximately $170 for modest gas-fired units to more than $2,000 for high-output heaters that can serve two showers at the same time; $1,000 is a reasonable starting point for most buyers. Electric heaters without a tank range in price from $90 to $900. The expenses of a first-time installation are higher than the price of a simple tank replacement. Electric tankless water heater installation (see item below headed “Installing an Electric Tankless Water Heater”).

How to Install a Tankless Water Heater

This is a work that should be left to the professionals, since it entails creating leak-free water, vent, and gas connections in the case of gas or propane units, or upgrading the wiring and circuit-breaker panel in the case of electric units, and it is best left to the professionals.

Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

Sign up to have a professional do an annual service that includes cleaning or replacing water and air filters, as well as inspecting the burner’s operation. The use of a vinegar flush every 500 hours in places with hard water prevents mineral accumulation, known as scale, from blocking the heat exchanger. That 20-minute task may be completed by a professional or by a homeowner.

How Long Do Tankless Water Heaters Last?

It is expected that gas-burning tankless water heaters would last 20 years or longer, which is two to three times longer than tank-type heaters. Tankless electric units have shorter life lifetimes, ranging from 7 to 10 years, compared to conventional units.

Where Can I Buy One?

They may be found at plumbing supply stores, big-box stores, and internet sellers, among other places.

Alternatively, you may order one via your plumber.

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Thanks to Noritz for the use of his photo.

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PRO: They’re Compact

As a result of new federal requirements requiring stronger insulation to decrease standby heat loss, the size of newer tank-type water heaters has increased. Consequently, they may not be able to fit into locations where an older heater with the same capacity might. Tankless gas heaters are approximately the size of a suitcase and are mounted on the wall.

PRO: They’re Safer

A tank-type heater, on the other hand, may leak and spill gallons of water if it springs a leak, but it will not house Legionella germs or topple over in an earthquake. The air supply and exhaust vents are also closed to prevent backdrafting, which would otherwise allow carbon monoxide to enter the house.

PRO: They’re Easy to Winterize

Owners of vacation homes are well aware of how long it takes to drain a water-heating tank prior to closing up a house for the season. An electric compressor may drain a tankless heater in a matter of seconds, after which it can simply be unplugged.

CON: They’re Sensitive to Slow Flow

These devices automatically shut off if there is too much scale accumulation in the pipes, or if the aerators in the faucets and showerheads get blocked, or if a turned-down faucet limits water flow to around 0.3 gpm.

CON: The Payback Takes Awhile

An annual savings of only around $100 for a household using a $1,000 tankless gas heater vs a $400 tank-type heater is possible, depending on how efficient the heater is and how much hot water is utilized. The savings, however, begin to accrue after six years, when many tanks are reaching the end of their useful lives due to the extended lifespan of tankless gas systems.

New Tankless Water Heater Technology

Thanks to Noritz for the use of his photo. The advancement of tankless technology is ongoing. Here are a few of the most recent enhancements:

Higher Efficiency

Condensing gas heaters can extract up to 96 percent of the heat from a fuel, which is a 17 percent improvement over first-generation tankless devices. This is possible because of a second heat exchanger, which collects a large portion of the exhaust heat before it exits the vent. In addition to being around 25% more expensive than noncondensing heaters, condensing heaters produce acidic condensate that must be neutralized. If a heater doesn’t come with a built-in neutralizing cartridge, the installation will have to install one after the fact.

Instant Hot Water

Despite the fact that tankless water heaters heat water in around 15 seconds, you must still wait for the hot water to reach your shower head or faucet, just as you would with a tank-type heater. The recirculation pump should be used when the distance between the heater and the fixture is greater than 50 feet. This will conserve water and minimize the amount of time spent waiting. It is this pump that pushes the cold water in the pipes back through the heater. The pump can be activated by a timer, a push button, a motion sensor, a smart speaker, or a smartphone (see illustration above).

Wi-Fi Compatible

Tankless systems with digital connectivity let you to control the temperature as well as monitor gas and hot-water use from your mobile device. Furthermore, the device is capable of identifying the cause of a problem.

Please communicate this information to your plumber so that he or she may arrive on the job site knowing exactly what has to be done. This function also eliminates the need for any guessing when it comes to determining when it is time to descale.

Tankless Water Heater Rebates: A Great Way to Save

Carl Tremblay captured this image.

What Size Tankless Water Heater Do I Need?

Carl Tremblay took this photograph.

  • The temperature of the water that enters the heater
  • The maximum demand for hot water expressed in gallons per minute (gpm)
  • The efficiency of the heater, as shown by its Uniform Energy Factor, which may be found in the product specifications
  1. The temperature of the water entering the heater
  2. And Gallons per minute (gpm) is the peak demand for hot water. This is reflected by the heater’s efficiency, which can be found in the product specifications as itsUniform Energy Factor.

Btus Output Estimate

Not interested in completing the calculations? Make a rough estimate of how much heater output you’ll want using these statistics.

  • The following figures are for one bathroom for one to two people: 140,000 Btus
  • Two bathrooms for two to three people: 190,000 Btus
  • Three bathrooms for three to five people: 380,000 Btus

Btus Per Gallon by Region

  • Kitchen or bath faucets should flow at 1.5–2.2 gpm
  • Tub filler faucets should flow at 4 gpm
  • Dishwasher: 1–2.5 gpm
  • Washing machine: 1.5–3 gpm
  • Showerhead should flow at 1.25–2.5 gpm

How to Determine gpm?

To get the real gpm of a fixture, time how many seconds it takes to fill a bucket to the 1-quart mark and multiply that time by the number of gpm. gpm is calculated by dividing 15 by the number of seconds in a minute.

Electric Tankless Water Heater Facts

Thanks to Stiebel and Eltron for their assistance. In addition to gas lines and propane tanks, tankless water heaters operated by electricity can provide the benefits of on-demand hot water to homes that do not have them. Compared to gas or propane tankless heaters, these systems, which heat water using thick copper rods, are significantly quieter and roughly a third smaller in size. And because they do not require vents, they can be fitted practically anyplace, even beneath sinks and in small closets, without compromising performance.

In locations with warm groundwater, that amount of hot water may be sufficient to feed a whole house; but, in colder climates, they are better suited to point-of-use service, where the demand for hot water does not become excessive.

Furthermore, electric heaters have a lifespan that is approximately half that of gas heaters: Warranty periods typically range from three to five years.

Tankless Water Heater Installation

Doug Adams created the illustration. What you and your plumber should look for before the installation day is as follows:

Gas Line

If you want your tankless heater to work effectively, you must connect it to a gas supply line that supplies enough volume at a high enough pressure to run the burner. In many circumstances, this will need increasing the diameter of the supply pipe to 3-4 inches in diameter. Furthermore, if the pressure is insufficient, the gas provider will be required to change the regulator on the meter. For your information, some tankless systems, like as ones manufactured by Rheem, are capable of working with a regular 12-inch gas line as long as it is not more than 24 feet in length.

Venting

Tankless gas heaters that do not condense employ stainless-steel vents that can resist high exhaust temperatures. Condensing systems feature a cooler exhaust and use PVC pipes, which are less costly than other types of exhaust. Installing a concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipe, is easier than installing a traditional vent since only one hole in the wall needs to be made.

As a point of reference, vent runs have traditionally been limited to a maximum of 10 feet. However, more powerful fans, such as those found in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now enable vents to be extended up to 150 feet.

Water Hardness

Heat transmission is slowed and water flow is restricted when scale deposits accumulate in a heat exchanger (or on electric heating components) over time. If you currently have whole-house water softening, scale will not be an issue for you. However, if your water is not being softened and its hardness surpasses 120 milligrams per liter, it is worthwhile to invest in a treatment system to remove the hardness. For your information, a specific, point-of-use cartridge, such as the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron), can be used to change the hardness of water without the use of salt or other chemicals.

Outdoor Tankless Water Heater

Matt Risinger captured this image. If your environment and local rules allow it, think about the advantages of hanging a heater outside in the winter.

  • Saves space: You won’t have to create place for another appliance in your home as a result of this. Installation is straightforward: Because of the built-in exhaust vent, there is no need to drill a large hole (or two) through the side of the building. Service is simple: A plumber may come to your home at any time, whether or not you are there. However, take in mind the following: Regulations governing construction: If you want to install it outside, you may require approval from your local building department. Weather conditions that are cold: Even at temperatures as low as 22 degrees Fahrenheit, internal heaters keep components warm, but exposed water lines must be insulated and covered with heat tape that activates automatically in freezing conditions. Southern states are less concerned about frozen pipes than those located north of the Mason-Dixon Line.

Tankless Water Heater Venting

Carl Tremblay captured this image. Are you in need of assistance with repairs around your home? A house warranty may be of assistance. The This Old House Reviews team has put up some in-depth guidelines that you can read here:

  • Home warranty providers that are the best
  • Reviews of American Home Shield, AFC Home Club, Select Home Warranty, and Choice Home Warranty are all available.

Noritz EZTR40-NG Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater 120K BTU

A new generation of tankless vehicles, the NoritzEZTR40-NG, is on the way. It is a straight replacement for tank water heaters with capacities of 30/40 gallons. It has a capacity of 6.6 gallons per minute. The water connections are located on the top of the water heater, which eliminates the need for re-plumbing when switching from a tank to a tankless water heater. Because the gas line is 1/2-inch in diameter, you won’t have to run a new 3/4-inch gas line, which will save you a lot of time and money.

This Noritz water heater is designed to fit into a small area and is equipped with high-efficiency condensing technology.

This simple-to-install water heater offers a minimum BTU capacity of 15,000 and a maximum BTU capacity of 120,000.

This water heater is a must-have for many households because of the superb craftsmanship and quality it provides.

It is intended for domestic usage and comes with a 5-year components guarantee as well as a 12-year heat exchanger warranty.

Through their tankless water heater solutions, they are helping to build the future of sustainable living on a daily basis.

For future reference, we also sell a variety of Noritz tankless water heaters in a variety of configurations.

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