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+--- Thread: Tankless Gas Hot Water Heater? (/showthread.php?tid=80493)
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Re: Tankless Gas Hot Water Heater? - Ombligo - 06-30-2009
I just did a ton of research last year on this subject and put in a Takagi-TK3-OS unit, run off propane.
It mounts on the outside of the house, so no new venting is required (inside units require stainless steel venting, not the galvanized you likely currently have).
It puts out enough water for two showers the dishwasher and clothes washer to run at once (although the pressure is way down from the pump, not the heater) at a constant 120-degrees. But I live in Florida and the water comes into the unit warmer so it is more efficient.
Install was easy though you will need the gas company to run a 1/2" line - don't do this yourself as you will void your homeowners insurance and the warranty on the tanless heater.
I bought the unit online at plumbingsupply.com for $750 delivered and will get a $300 tax credit on my federal return this year - so unit cost was really $450. I spent about $70 on plumbing, and mounting supplies and another $150 for the gasline - so grand total was just under $700.
Propane use is down noticeably. I'll see 100% payback in about 3 years.
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Tank - do your research as to brands.
stay away from both Whirlpool (lowes) and GE (home depot) - both have had major issues especially Whirlpool. AO Smith used to be a very good brand, but was then bought by State and manufacturing was moved to Mexico - quality is way off and they are overpriced crap now. Bradford is still good but expensive, only sold by plumbers and they will have to do the install at a high price.
Waater Heaters are like Washing Machines - they use to last decades but no more. The manufacturers build in obsolescence of maybe 5 years to keep the sales going. Do'nt be fooled by a longer tank warrenty - the tank isn't what goes bad.
For self-install your best bet is now Sears. The Kenmore units are okay, not fantastic but can be upgraded for about $120 with aftermarket items to make last longer - see: http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/
Re: Tankless Gas Hot Water Heater? - DP - 06-30-2009
>Is not conducive to American lifestyle ( doing dishes, laundry and shower at the same time)
Not true! We have a tankless (Rinnai) that uses LPG and it is rated to handle two heavy and one light load simultaneously. I will replace my house WH (the tankless is at our cottage) when it craps out.
Re: Tankless Gas Hot Water Heater? - macphanatic - 06-30-2009
Mike Sellers wrote:
If you're still planning on getting one from Lowe's, stay away from the Whirlpools. They have a bad reputation.
a second on avoiding Whirlpool. Their flame lock system is terrible - I know first hand. Do a google search and read about all of the problems.