If you live in a secure area and can make a few modifications to accommodate the unit, you should buy an outdoor unit. In case you are at risk of vandalism, or face extreme weather conditions, an indoor water heater should be your choice. Aug 6, 2019
Table of Contents
Where is PEX not allowed?
You can’t install PEX in high heat areas like near recessed lighting. This also means you can’t connect PEX directly to a hot water heater, but you can use a connecting material to do this. PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe. Aug 2, 2018
Is Blue PEX OK for hot water?
Color-Coded: Red PEX pipes can be used for hot water supply lines, blue PEX for cold water supply, and white for either hot or cold. These colors are just for your convenience. Plumbing code does not require the pipe color to match the type of water supply. Jul 26, 2022
How far does PEX need to be from water heater?
18 inches PEX shall not be installed within the first 18 inches (457 mm) of piping connected to a water heater.
Can you use PEX on tankless water heater?
But the IPC does require following the manufacturer’s installation instructions; and some water heater manufacturers, especially of tankless water heaters, specify that PEX should not be directly connected to their product, with a minimum of 18” of other approved pipe at the water heater connection. Dec 15, 2020
Do tankless water heaters need to be vented outside?
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
Can you use PVC to vent a tankless water heater?
In most cases, PVC makes a great venting material. It’s the least expensive option and is easy to install. And it’s a good reason to consider a high-efficiency condensing unit. Oct 22, 2019
Can a tankless water heater supply a whole house?
Both gas and electric water tankless heaters can function as whole-house solutions or as a smaller “point-of-use” system. Smaller single-use tankless water heaters heat water for just a single room, tap, or appliance. These larger and smaller systems essentially work in the same way.
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!
What is the most efficient hot water heater?
A hybrid water heater or a heat pump water heater is one of the most energy-efficient electric water heaters available nowadays. Such units do require electricity to move heat. Mar 30, 2022
Does a tankless gas water heater need a dedicated circuit?
Gas tankless water heaters use just a tiny amount of amperage to ignite the flame. Unless the manufacturer requires it, there is no need for a dedicated circuit. Aug 4, 2017
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
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
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
Does cold weather affect tankless water heater?
If the water is colder, the tankless water heater can’t provide as much hot water per minute because it takes longer to heat it. Just like it would take you longer to cook frozen food than refrigerated food. Dec 21, 2021
When should I drain my tankless water heater?
once a year It’s generally a good idea to drain your water heater at least once a year, according to both BobVila.com and The Family Handyman. If you live in an area with hard water, though, Angie’s List says you may need to drain it more frequently.
How do I keep my tankless water from freezing?
How to Prevent Your Tankless Water Heater from Freezing Install Your Water Heater in a Warm Place. … Drain Your Water Heater. … Maintain a Power Source. … Consider a Recirculation System. … Insulate, Insulate, Insulate. … Run a Trickle of Water. Feb 9, 2017
Do tankless water heaters produce carbon monoxide?
A kit installed on the tankless water heaters and boilers to convert them from natural gas to propane can cause the unit to produce excessive amounts of carbon monoxide, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to consumers.
Does electric tankless water heater need drain?
Every major brand of tankless requires a drain pan if the unit is installed where a leak can cause damage to the home or building. Architects and engineers understand that when a tankless water heater reaches the end of its life it will likely leak, just like a tank. Jun 11, 2015
What would cause an electric water heater to catch fire?
As for electric water heaters, the only thing you need to worry about is overheating problems. An electric heater would have any ignition flame even if gas leaks from another appliance. Mar 24, 2022
Resources
5 Tips to Make the Right Choice Between Indoor and Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters in San Antonio, TX
https://www.thespruce.com/learn-the-basics-of-pex-pipe-1822493
https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/PEX-Water-Heater-Piping.php
https://www.howtolookatahouse.com/Blog/Entries/2020/12/can-pex-pipe-be-connected-to-a-water-heater.html
https://www.rinnai.us/announcements/7-tips-tankless-water-heater-venting
https://propane.com/2019/10/22/5-venting-tankless-water-heater-faqs-bwp/
https://forums.mikeholt.com/threads/tankless-gas-water-heater.137078/
https://prudentreviews.com/tankless-water-heaters-pros-and-cons/
https://www.eccotemp.com/blog/6-common-tankless-water-heater-problems-and-how-to-solve-them/index.php
Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters | Which is More Energy Efficient?
https://www.allstate.com/resources/home-insurance/how-to-drain-a-water-heater
https://www.cpsc.gov/vi-VN/node/41055?language=vi
https://www.phcppros.com/articles/440-using-drain-pans-to-solve-tankless-water-heater-leak-problems