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When winter says hello, and the temperature drops, it gets tougher to bath in cold water. This is where a water heater comes in handy. Unfortunately, conventional water heaters occupy more space, and fail to ensure an uninterrupted supply of hot water. People are always on the lookout for a water heating system that is efficient, compact and fulfills their water heating needs. If you are on the lookout for an alternative water heating system, all you need is a tankless water heater.
Nowadays, more and more homeowners are ditching their out-dated water heating systems, and switching to tankless water heaters. They offer a wide array and benefits, and one of them is a continuous supply of hot water. Although compact and easy to use, before installing one, there are a number of factors you need to consider, some of which are mentioned below.
Here are five factors you must consider before one installed:
1. Capacity of the Unit
The storage capacity is one of the most crucial factors to consider when sizing a conventional water heater. As far as tankless water heaters are concerned, this issue is even more complex. In order to determine the unit capacity that is required for your home, you’ll have to gather some necessary bits of information. To begin with, you must figure out the flow rates of all the appliances in your home that use water. The flow rates of various water-using appliances are measured in Gallons per Minute (GPM). While the GPM is mentioned on some appliances such as your toilet, for the rest they must be manually monitored. Next, you need to determine the rise in temperature that is required to heat up the flow of water in your home. To do so you will have to apply the basic formula mentioned below.
Formula
Desired Temperature (F)-Current Temperature (F) =Required Temperature (F)
Application
100 (F)-45(f) =55(F)
If you want to avoid the complex mathematical calculations, it is better to consult a plumbing professional, before installing.
2. Compatibility of the Gas Line
Compared to conventional water heaters, a tankless water heater uses thrice the BTUs. It does not mean that a they require gas to function. It simply means that, in order to get going, it needs an initial kick, for the water isn’t heated yet. In most cases the normal size of the gas pipe line required must not be less than ¾ inch. In order to provide yours with an adequate supply of gas, it is better to consult a professional plumber.
3. Ventilation Requirements
Compared to their traditional predecessors, theyhave variable ventilation requirements. Which is why, special modifications are required. The two ways it can be vented are as follows.
- Power Ventilation: Power ventilation depends upon indoor air for combustion, and the air is exhausted outside through the vents.
- Direct Ventilation: Takes air from the outside, and uses both intake and exhaust ventilation.
Regardless of what form of venting is required, it needs a Grade 3 venting material. This material is corrosion resistant, and airtight to prevent any leakage of carbon monoxide. However, theyproduce a low gas exhaust, which can be vented with simpler venting material like PVC.
4. Electricity Requirements
It sounds a little weird, but electricity is one of the most crucial factors to consider before installing a tankless water heater. Despite the fact that it may need gas to run, electricity is still required for its digital remote and PC board. Therefore, to ensure flawless functioning, you will need access to at least 120 volts of electricity. Remember, it will not to function if your power goes out. Therefore, it is better to contact a professional to check that all of your wiring and electrical connections are in working order.
5. Location
Two things that restrict the placement of a tankless water heater are ventilation and clearance. As discussed earlier, power vents depend upon indoor air for combustion. Therefore, they need to be placed in an area that is not only spacious, but also possesses vents for maximum flow of air. On the flipside, direct vents need to pull air from the outside. Why is why, it is alright if they are placed in confined areas like cupboards and cabinets.
Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater
- They are energy efficient and uses only 30 to 50% lesser energy than a traditional water heater. Doing so, it saves you more than $100 on an annual basis, depending upon your water usage.
- These units run on natural gas or propane, and heat your water up, right after you turn a water faucet on.
- You are not bound to keep at least 30 to 40 gallons of water in your tank.
- It ensures an uninterrupted supply of hot water, which helps you fill a bathtub with hot water easily.
If you are looking for a professional to install a tankless water heater on your property, you have come to the right place. Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of NE Dallas, TX is a professional plumbing company that provides the finest services to our customers in the NE Dallas, TX area. With the right team, tools and experience, we have the solution to all your plumbing related issues. For more information, visit our website, or call now at 972-483-2583.