Are you tired of running out of hot water during showers or when doing laundry? A tankless water heater might be the solution you're looking for. These efficient units provide hot water on demand, but choosing the right size is crucial for optimal performance.
To find the right size tankless water heater, most homes need a unit that can handle your household's peak hot water demand, typically between 5-10 GPM (gallons per minute). We'll help you determine your needs based on factors like the number of people in your home and the appliances you use simultaneously.
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand. Look at your hot water use and home setup to pick the correct size.
Hot water needs vary by household, and you must consider how many people live in your home and what you use hot water for. A family of four usually needs more hot water than a couple. Showers, dishwashers, and washing machines all use hot water.
Count your hot water fixtures, including showers, sinks, and appliances, as each fixture has a specific flow rate measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
Here's a quick list of typical fixture flow rates:
Peak demand is when you use the most hot water, often in the morning when many people shower. Add the GPM of fixtures you might use simultaneously to find your peak demand. For example, two showers and a sink could need 5-6.5 GPM.
Also, think about the temperature rise. This is the difference between your groundwater and desired hot water temperatures. Colder areas need more powerful heaters because they must work harder to heat the water to the right temperature.
Your daily routines affect your hot water needs. A family that showers at different times needs less hot water at once than if everyone showers back-to-back. Household size is key. More people usually mean more hot water use.
But it's not just about numbers; how you use hot water matters, too. Do you take long showers? Run the dishwasher daily? Wash lots of clothes? These habits increase our hot water demand.
Picking the right size tankless water heater is key for getting enough hot water. We'll show you how to determine your needs based on water use and temperature.
You need to know the flow rate and temperature rise to size a tankless water heater. Temperature rise is the difference between the incoming cold water temperature and the hot water temperature you want. For example, if the cold water is 50°F and you want 120°F hot water, the rise is 70°F.
Gas and electric tankless heaters have pros and cons. Gas models can heat more water faster, making them suitable for bigger homes. They also cost less to run but more to buy and install.
Electric models work well for smaller homes or point-of-use spots. They're cheaper to buy and install but may cost more to run. They also need less space, which is a bonus for smaller buildings.
Online calculators make sizing easier, and to get an estimate, you’ll input the following information:
These tools do the math for you, determining your flow rate needs and suggesting heater sizes. Many brands have their own calculators. These can be helpful if you're looking at a specific make or model. Remember, it's always wise to round up when sizing. A bit too big is better than too small for hot water!
Proper setup and care are key for a tankless water heater. Let's look at where to put it, how much it costs to install, and how to keep it running smoothly.
Tankless water heaters need a good spot to work their best, and you should pick a place that's easy to get to for repairs. It should also be near gas lines and electrical outlets. The heater needs space around it to let air flow. This helps it work safely and efficiently. You can even put it on an inside wall to protect it from cold weather.
For gas models, think about venting. They need a way to send exhaust outside. Electric models don't need this, so they're easier to place.
Getting a professional to install a tankless water heater can cost between $1,000 and $3,000. This price includes the heater and the work to put it in.
The exact cost depends on:
Gas heaters often cost more to install because they need special venting and sometimes new gas lines. Electric ones are usually cheaper and easier to put in. Get quotes from a few licensed installers to help find a fair price and good service.
Taking care of a tankless water heater helps it last longer and work better. You should clean it once a year to get rid of mineral buildup. This is called descaling.
Here's what we need to do:
You can do some of this ‘DIY’, but hiring a professional is often best, as they can spot problems you might miss.
For gas heaters, check the venting system yearly. This keeps it safe and working well. With good care, a tankless water heater can last 20 years or more. That's much longer than tank-style heaters.
Choosing the right tankless water heater brand and model is key for long-term satisfaction. We'll explore top brands, energy efficiency, and warranty options to help you make an informed decision.
Rinnai and Rheem are leaders in gas tankless water heaters, offering reliable units with high BTU output for homes with high hot water demands. For electric models, Stiebel Eltron and Bosch stand out. These brands provide efficient units ideal for smaller homes or point-of-use applications.
Rinnai gas models often have the highest max GPM, making them great for large families. Rheem offers a good mix of price and performance. Stiebel Eltron electric units are known for their sleek design and quiet operation.
Energy efficiency is a significant factor in choosing a tankless water heater. Look for models with high energy factor (EF) ratings. Gas units typically range from 0.82 to 0.95 EF, while electric models can reach up to 0.99 EF.
For gas heaters, check the BTU rating. Higher BTUs mean more heating power. Most homes need 140,000 to 199,000 BTUs. Electric models are rated in kilowatts (kW). A 240-volt, 28 kW unit can handle a whole house.
Warranty length can hint at a unit's quality and expected lifespan, and most tankless water heaters last 15-20 years with proper care. Look for brands offering at least a 10-year warranty on the heat exchanger.
Some key warranty points to check:
Rinnai and Rheem often offer the most extended warranties for gas models. For electric units, Stiebel Eltron typically provides strong coverage. Remember, proper installation and yearly maintenance can extend your heater's life beyond the warranty period.
Contact us to discuss the correct size tankless water heater for your home.
