Tankless waterheater

Coonash · 01-06-2010, 01:53 AM

I really want one, but I've heard that there still not able to keep up with the required demand.

**havasu** · 01-06-2010, 02:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Coonash

I really want one, but I've heard that there still not able to keep up with the required demand.

I just installed one and love it. I spent extra money for a new model that included a recirculating pump and timer, but since I was re-piping already, I just added a 1/2" return line. I now have instant hot water from all my faucets, with no water waste at all.

One downside I failed to look at before the installation was the fact that when power goes out, you will have no hot water. Also, in the event of an earthquake, you won't have that extra water available for use. Just something to think about!

schvilktus · 01-06-2010, 03:04 AM

They work fine when sized/installed correctly, and expectations are reasonable. If you want to run 2 showers, wash laundry, and run the dishwasher at one time, you probably won't be happy with the way it works. If you just run 1 shower at a time, and run the dishwasher when you go to bed, you'll probably like it just fine. There are ways to make them work correctly even if you DO run 2 showers at once, but it may take some hot water storage, or multiple tankless units.

Ktx7ca · 01-06-2010, 05:21 AM

HI did you go with a gas or electric one

**havasu** · 01-06-2010, 05:39 AM

The tankless water heater I just installed is a Navien brand, and is natural gas. It has a 1/2 gallon reserve tank and recirculating pump built into it, and is super energy efficient. The exhaust pipes are just PVC pipes, which makes me believe that the heat is contained inside. It also has a stainless steel burner, with a long warranty. It's been about 6 weeks since it was installed, and so far very satisfied with it.

**Nailer341** · 01-06-2010, 04:31 PM

If you are going this route, be sure to do some research on the products.
I would not recommend purchasing the ones from the major home stores for a full house use.

Lowes and Home depot offer units taht are too small for most homes.

Spend some time and make an informed decision on your purchase. expect to spend $800+ for a good one with the ability to support a whole house with 2 baths, d/w w/d, etc.

BRad704 · 01-06-2010, 06:32 PM

I have looked at these also, but I would be using it for the Master bathroom which is physically as FAR from the main heater as possible! and its on the second floor, so I have no idea where the pipes are...

Anyone know if its even possible to add on to the middle of the system? I am just looking to get hot water way faster to the master shower...

**havasu** · 01-06-2010, 07:14 PM

Before changing to a tankless water heater, I purchased a timer controlled water circulating pump, which is a 5 minute addition to my water heater. It then provides a temp. controlled valve for the farthest supply line, which also took less than 5 minutes to install. Once the timer was set, it pushed hot water from the tank thru the lines, and with the temp. valve, returned the hot water back into the tank until it reached its optimum heat. From that point on, I had near instant hot water into by rear bathroom, which is about 70' away from the hot water heater. I purchased from Costco, where they had them for sale on the shelves. Total cost was ~$175, and is called a recirculating water pump. They are also available at most big box hardware stores, and I would give it a "two thumbs up!"

BRad704 · 01-06-2010, 07:16 PM

Great idea havasu! I will have to bring this up to my wife and see if she cares enough to let me have a go at it. My concern is that since I dont know where the hard lines are in the walls, I will have to end up cutting out drywall...

**havasu** · 01-06-2010, 07:24 PM

There is no cutting of the water lines. You add the "T" valve directly to the supply line leading from your wall to your faucet. I'm also certain your faucet is on the same leg as your shower, like mine was, and I was able to have a hot shower in less than 5 seconds. In Southern California, water is extremely expensive, and this really helped my water bill. Before the installation, I would turn on the hot water into the shower, and walk away for about 5 minutes, due to my clogged galvanized pipes. That right there was a huge waste of water. I would also set the timer to start pumping between 6 AM and 7 AM, which was when I usually got into the shower before work.

One final note is the fact that a plug must be within 6' of your water heater, since the pump runs on 110 volts. If you have a nearby plug, you are good to go.