Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater
Whole house electric tankless water heaters are usually wall-mounted and compact. They offer a variety of installation options depending on the size of your household’s hot water demand and the location of your home’s plumbing fixtures.
They only heat water on demand, which helps reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. They’re also more affordable than gas models and qualify for a tax credit.
Flow Rate
Unlike storage water heaters, electric tankless models don’t have to wait for the water in the system to warm up before they can deliver hot water. As such, they require a higher flow rate to meet household demands.
In order to ensure the tankless unit is sized correctly, it’s essential to determine the heaviest water usage in your home. For instance, you’ll want to know the number of appliances and fixtures that will be used simultaneously during peak times (like showers and washing machines). Additionally, you’ll need to figure out your incoming ground water temperature, which will differ depending on where you live.
To calculate your heaviest flow rate, start by adding up the gallons per minute (GPM) required electric instant hot water heater from each fixture and appliance you anticipate running simultaneously. For example, if you expect to run two showers and a sink faucet at the same time during peak usage, your total GPMS will be 3.75 (or more).
Once you have your heaviest gallons per minute requirement, you’ll then need to determine your required temperature rise. This is the difference between your desired set temperature and the incoming ground water temperature. The easiest way to do this is to consult the Stiebel Eltron Tempra flow rates chart for your region. The chart lists different requirements for varying incoming temperatures and required Temperature Rises, making it easy to select the right model for your household.
Installation Location
As with any home improvement project, proper preparation is essential to completing a successful tankless water heater installation. This includes shutting off the electricity supply to the unit and switching off your household’s main water supply. You will also need to install a pressure valve for the hot water line, as well as a flow and drain valve.
Choosing the location for your new electric tankless water heater is an important consideration. Ideally, it should be placed close to the areas of your house where you need hot water most often. This will help reduce the amount of time it takes for the hot water to travel from the heater to your faucets, which in turn can save both water and energy.
In addition, it is important to make sure your electric tankless water heater is located in a place where there is adequate ventilation. This is particularly important for gas-powered models, which require a vent pipe to carry away fumes.
It is also a good idea to install the flow and pressure valves near the heater, so you can easily shut off the water supply in case of an emergency or for maintenance purposes. Finally, your tankless electric water heater should be in an area that is free from moisture and excess humidity. This will help prevent corrosion, clogging and other issues.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important consideration when choosing a tankless water heater. Because they only heat water on demand, these units use significantly less energy than traditional tank-style water heaters. This reduces your electric bills and helps lower your carbon footprint. If you choose a model with a high Energy Factor rating, even more savings can be realized.
Another important aspect of energy efficiency is how quickly your electric tankless water heater can heat your water to the desired temperature. Many models feature a flow sensor that detects when you turn on a hot water faucet and activates a series of heating elements. The system continues to heat the water until you shut off the faucet or the flow sensor signals that no more water is needed.
Whole-house tankless water heaters are ideal for homes with more than one bathroom and are typically located in out-of-the-way areas like garages or laundry rooms. They supply hot-water lines to every fixture and appliance, including the shower, dishwasher, washing machine, and laundry dryer. Some models have a built-in recirculation pump that loops any cold water in the pipes back to the heater for reheating. This can save you money and time by reducing the amount of hot water wasted while waiting for it to warm up.
Point-of-use (POU) tankless water heaters are perfect for areas where hot water is only needed occasionally, such as vacation homes or stadiums. They don’t require a vent or gas line, making them easy to install in locations where a traditional water heater wouldn’t fit or be cost-effective. Some POU electric models are designed to automatically modulate their power usage based on hot-water demand, further reducing energy consumption.
Warranty and Maintenance
A top-rated electric tankless water heater will come with a warranty to protect against malfunctions and defects. You should choose a model with a long warranty term to get the most value for your money. A warranty can save you thousands in repairs and system replacement costs.
In addition to the warranty, a quality unit should have a robust customer support program that provides helpful troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and forums. This can make it easier to solve issues on your own or when working with a plumber.
To ensure your new electric tankless water heater performs well, you should inspect it regularly for wear and tear. During your inspection, you should check for leaks electric water heater and test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If you notice any problems, call a professional to fix them right away.
An electric tankless water heater offers many benefits over a conventional tank water heater, including lower energy bills and a longer lifespan. However, it’s essential to assess your household’s needs and consult product specifications before choosing the best model for your home. In addition, you should check that your home’s electrical wiring can support the unit’s power requirements and hire a licensed electrician to upgrade it if necessary. You should also regularly perform maintenance tasks, such as descaling, to help prevent mineral buildup and extend the life of your unit.
