How big of a tankless water heater do I need for a family of 5?

By Robert Flores / October 26, 2022

In short, a family of 5 would need a 10 GPM gas tankless heater or 27 kW electric tankless heater if you live in the northern part of the USA, where the input water has a lower temperature. The tankless heater has to work extra hard to bring the water temperature up to 110˚F or 120˚F.

Which is better hot water heater or tankless?

According to Energy.gov, “For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand (or tankless) water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters.” Tankless water heaters (if gas-fired) will save homeowners over $100 annually the longer they remain in service.

Do you need to vent a tankless water heater?

Tankless hot water heaters require special venting to blow hot exhaust gas outside, where it dissipates. Unlike traditional tank-style water heaters, gas tankless hot water heaters offer far more versatile venting options. Oct 15, 2012

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What should I look for when buying a tankless water heater?

There are two things you need to consider before purchasing a tankless water heater: the flow rate, meaning the water measured in gallons per minute (GPM) for a fixture or appliance, and the temperature rise, which is the difference between the groundwater temperature and the desired hot-water output temperature.

Where do you put a tankless water heater?

As long as enough combustion air is provided, tankless water heaters can be installed in place of your old water heater or anywhere in your home. This includes utility rooms, garages, basements, attics, or mounted on outside walls. They can even be installed in locations where a storage water heater wouldn’t fit.

What is the average price to install a tankless water heater?

The typical range for tankless heater installation is between $4,500 and $6,500, averaging out to around $5,500 (including the water heater, warranty and tune ups). The tankless heater installation without the unit can cost between $1800 and $3500, averaging out to around $2650. Aug 26, 2022

Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill?

Tankless heaters can be 8-14% more energy-efficient for households that use around 86 gallons daily. Installing a tankless heater at each hot water outlet, Energy.gov says, can increase tankless water heater energy savings by up to 27-50%. Oct 6, 2016

What is the best brand of tankless hot water heaters?

The 10 Best Tankless Water Heaters of 2022. EcoSmart ECO 27. Rheem 18kw Tankless Electric Water Heater. Stiebel Eltron DHC Trend Point-of-Use Electric Tankless Water Heaters. Rheem 13kw Tankless Electric Water Heater RTEX-13. Eemax 27kW Electric Tankless. Rinnai RU160iN RU Model Series. More items… • Oct 12, 2022

Can you replace a gas water heater with a tankless water heater?

Yes. The initial cost of converting your tank water heater to a tankless is expensive. Tankless water heaters are 3x more expensive than your average tank water heater. However, the energy savings and supply of endless hot water can outweigh the cost for many. Feb 18, 2021

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Do you need a professional to install a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heater replacement is a complex process that involves the skills of a highly trained technician. Unless you are experienced and comfortable enough to solder pipe, make gas connections and following local codes, hire a licensed professional.

How long does it take to install a tankless water?

Afterward, the tankless unit must also be mounted and connected. Tankless to Tankless Installation: This generally takes between one to three hours.

How long do tankless water heaters last?

Some people hesitate to decide on a tankless water heater because they can be a slightly higher cost; however, you get significantly more life out of one. A standard water heater tank lasts about 8-12 years. A tankless water heater can last as long as 25 years!

Are electric tankless water heaters worth it?

For many people, the long-term benefits of tankless heaters more than compensate for their initial expense. A tankless heater can be up to 34% more efficient than a traditional water heater. This increase in efficiency can amount to annual savings of over $100, depending on the type and size of the heater. Jun 10, 2022

Can you take a shower with a tankless water heater?

With a tankless water heater, you can take a shower, use the dishwasher, and do laundry all at the same time without losing hot water. On top of saving, you from the dreaded cold shower, it can also save you money and energy.

Which instant water heater is best for shower?

The Best Instant Shower Heads/ Water Heaters For Low Water… Sale! Midea Instant Water Heater with inbuilt silent pump- DSK45EU3 – Digital Display. … Sale! … Lorenzetti Maxi Turbo Pressurizer. … Lorenzetti Advanced Turbo. … Lorenzetti Duo Shower Turbo. … Sale! … Enerbras Enerducha 3T.

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What is the most common problems with tankless water heaters?

Here are six of the most common problems and maintenance concerns for tankless water heaters: Mineral Buildup. System Overload. Cold Water Sandwich. Air Supply or Exhaust Blockage. Ignition Failure. Flame Failure. Mar 9, 2022

Why does my shower get cold with a tankless water heater?

Low Water Pressure Low water pressure is one of the most significant reasons why the tankless water heater suddenly cold during the shower. The flow within your device is lower than the activation flow rate required, resulting in the closing down of the gas burner or it may not ignite the burner at all. Jun 22, 2022

Can a tankless water heater run on a 1/2 gas line?

A typical tankless water heater will need a ¾-inch gas line. However, if there is sufficient pressure and the run length is short enough, a ½-inch line may be sufficient with certain tankless water heaters, such as the Noritz EZ Series. Nov 8, 2018

Does a tankless water heater need a 3/4 pipe?

Typically, tankless water heaters require a ¾-in. or 1-in. supply line. Sept 2, 2012

What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

In addition to high upfront costs, tankless water heaters have several other disadvantages compared to tank-style water heaters: they take longer to deliver hot water. the water temperature is inconsistent when multiple outlets are on simultaneously. they cannot provide hot water during a power outage. Oct 16, 2022

Resources

What Size Tankless Water Heater Do I Need? (2,3,4,5,6 Family)


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Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost (2024)


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https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/plumbing/best-tankless-water-heaters/
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The Pros and Cons of a Tankless Water Heater


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https://www.mrplumberatlanta.com/help-guides/never-run-hot-water-tankless-water-heater

The Best Instant Shower Heads/ Water Heaters For Low Water Pressure


https://www.eccotemp.com/blog/6-common-tankless-water-heater-problems-and-how-to-solve-them/index.php
https://gharpedia.com/blog/tankless-water-heater-goes-cold/

Tankless Water Heater Installation Tips. Things to Consider


https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/54562.pdf
https://prudentreviews.com/tankless-water-heaters-pros-and-cons/

About the author

Robert Flores