Any tankless hot water heater users ?

[Gavin Allan]

The tankless heaters will clog up much quicker with minerals. In many areas, they have to be de-limed regularly to keep them working. Tank-type heaters are more resistant to damage from liming.



I doubt that there is much energy savings with a tankless heater compared to a newer, well-insulated tank-type heater. Try shutting your tank-type heater off sometime and see how long the water stays hot.

 

[Thomas Rogers]

Gavin, wouldn't a water softener before the HW heater help to solve the hard water problems?



Also, I don't see how you can make that second claim. Again, logic would dictate that heating only the small amount of water when needed, and not a larger volume periodically throughout the day will:



a) reduce energy, especially since most people are NOT at home most weekdays for long hours



b) assure hot water when you need it (many a time we go to use hot water and clearly the water is still very warm, but nearing the end of the cooling cycle when the heater is about to kick back on).



Yes, today's well insulated tanks are more efficient than their older versions, but think of it like a well insulated teapot. You might only need a cup of hot tea once or twice a day. Do you really think its more efficient warming up that entire teapot several times throughout the day (or EVEN only ONCE) or is it cheaper to just heat one teacup of water when you need it?



TJR

 

[Michael Hale]

I for one and glad to have seen this topic. I would still like to know however what the cost of one would be to utilize typically one shower, a couple of sinks, and a dishwasher.

 

[Gavin Allan]

For best efficiency, make sure you get a CONDENSING heater. The higher efficiencies for fossil-burning appliances are gained by extracting heat from the phase changes of the vapor in the exhaust stream.



The link below will tell you more than you ever wanted to know!

 

[Thomas Rogers]

Me too, Teasip. You might want to try your local plumbing and heating store, or a onlight site for plumbing/heating DIY. If you find something, please report back.



I understand the cost to be several thousands, vs several hundreds for a traditional HW heater. Will it pay for itself over time? Maybe not, as that would depend on how long you are in the house. There may be other reasons it pays for you (and others though) like convenience, better service, greater peace of mind.



TJR