If you’ve made the decision to install a tankless water heater, you already know these on-demand heaters save both energy and money while providing plenty of hot water. Before putting in your new tankless model, however, carefully consider where the system will be installed and what, if any, revisions you’ll need to make to accommodate it.
Existing Space
Your HVAC contractor may conclude the best option is to install the tankless model in the same space where the older water heater stood. That area already contains the gas line and water hookups, necessary fixtures, and hot water line that will be needed to connect the tankless heater. Most homes built within the last few decades should have the proper-sized connections for installing a tankless model.
Nearness to Fixtures
The tankless water heater should be installed to be as close as possible to the fixtures that will use the water it generates. Longer supply pipes could result in heat loss. As well, the closer the fixtures are to the heater, the faster you’ll get hot water at the point of use.
Dedicated Gas Line
If your gas system has been supplying both the water heater and the furnace, this is a good time to revise the supply lines to provide a dedicated gas line for the tankless water heater. Having a separate line for the furnace and water heater ensures that both pieces of equipment will receive all the fuel they need to operate effectively and efficiently.
Ventilation for Tankless Models
Tankless water heaters will likely need more ventilation than older tank-style models. Part of the changes you’ll need to make could include increasing the size or number of ventilation pipes for carrying away dangerous by-products of fuel combustion, particularly carbon monoxide. Vents should also be at least 3 feet away from windows.
For more than three decades, heating and cooling customers in Lorain, Erie, and Cuyahoga Counties have relied on Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us today for more information on choosing and installing a tankless water heater and for expert advice on the benefits of these convenient and money-saving devices.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
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Serving the Lorain, OH Area