Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater
To choose the right whole house electric tankless water heater, you must consider its power source, flow rate, and warranty. In addition, you must check if your home is suitable for a tankless system, as some models require an oversized electrical service.
A professional plumber will be needed to install the unit and make leak-free water, gas, and vent connections. A pro will also assess your household hot water usage and available electrical capacity.
Cost-effectiveness
The cost of installing a whole house electric tankless water heater depends on a variety of factors, including the power source, flow rate and warranty. Typically, gas-powered tankless heaters are more expensive than electric ones, but that difference can vary greatly depending on your home’s energy usage and electricity rates. In general, electric models are more affordable upfront and easier to install. However, they have lower flow rates than gas-powered models.
To determine what size tankless heater is best for your home, start by adding together the maximum flow rates of all the fixtures that use hot water in your household. This includes showers, kitchen faucets, washing machines and dishwashers. Once you know how much water your appliances use, compare the results to a model’s gallon-per-minute (GPM) rating. If you have a larger family, consider choosing a model with a higher GPM capacity.
Most homeowners need to have a professional install their new unit, and this can add to the overall costs. This is because tankless heaters are more complex than traditional storage tanks, and they may require modifications to your plumbing system. In addition, you will likely need to meet codes and obtain permits in some areas. A professional can help you navigate these obstacles and ensure that your new water heater is safe and compatible with your home.
Flow rate
The flow rate of a whole house electric tankless water heater depends on the number and types of appliances and fixtures that will be using hot water simultaneously. It also depends on the maximum GPM (gallons electric instant hot water heater per minute) that a model is designed to achieve. Ideally, you should choose the most efficient model to reduce your energy costs.
You should also take into account your local electricity rates. Depending on the type of fuel and energy source, different models will offer different savings. In addition, it is important to find out how much your home requires for heating water. You can do this by calling your local utility company.
A whole-house tankless water heater is a great choice for replacing a traditional water heater because it heats the water instantly and only when needed. It will save you energy and money by eliminating standby losses. However, it is best to consult a professional to ensure that the unit meets your household’s hot water needs.
While location may not seem like an important factor in choosing a tankless water heater, it has a huge impact on its capacity. Incoming ground water temperatures vary across the country, and your location will affect the temperature at which you will be heating the water. For example, if your ground water is in the northern region of the country and you want to warm it up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit, the water heater will have to work harder than in a southern climate.
Energy efficiency
A whole house electric tankless water heater is more energy efficient than a traditional storage model because it only heats water as needed. This reduces energy consumption and lowers your electricity bills. In addition, a tankless water heater can be used with solar panels to further reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint.
When you turn on your hot-water tap, a flow sensor detects the water and signals the unit to begin heating it. The control panel then activates the fan, which draws in outside air and opens a gas valve to let in natural gas. The hot-water heater’s heat exchanger then warms the water. Its temperature is controlled by a mixing valve, which tempers the superheated water that exits the exchanger.
An electric tankless water heater’s flow rate is the amount of hot water it can provide per minute. A higher flow rate means more fixtures can be used simultaneously without running out of hot water. Choose a model with a high flow rate to save money in the long run.
Tankless water heaters must be descaled periodically to prevent mineral deposits from building up and causing damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this process, or hire a professional plumber to do it for you. You also need to maintain the pressure relief valve on the tankless unit. It is important to test this valve at least once a year to ensure it’s working properly.
Safety
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a tankless water heater is its safety. You should choose a model with certifications for safe operation. Also, make sure the unit is properly installed and has an adequate power supply to avoid overloading. It is also important to consult professionals to assess your household hot water needs and available electrical capacity. This will help you select a tankless water heater with the appropriate flow rate and temperature rise for your house.
Tankless water heaters are generally much safer than traditional tank-style units, as they do not have a reservoir to rust or degrade over time. They are also less prone to leaks and have a compact footprint, making them a great electric water heater option for smaller homes. They are also easier to visually inspect, as there is no need to climb over tanks and peer around gas and supply lines.
In order to get the most out of your electric tankless water heater, you should perform regular maintenance tasks, such as descaling. This helps to prevent mineral deposits from clogging the heat exchanger. It is also recommended to sign up for annual service by a professional, which includes cleaning and checking the unit’s water and air filters and burner. If you live in an area with hard water, a vinegar flush every 500 hours is necessary to keep the heat exchanger from clogging.
