05 Feb. 21

Electric Tankless Water Heater in Encino

Houses without a gas line or gas tank can also enjoy the benefits of on-demand hot water by setting up tankless units powered by electricity. These units, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a 3rd smaller than gas or lp tankless heaters. And due to the fact that they don’t require vents, they can be set up almost anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One downside to electrical systems is its minimal output, which tops out at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That might be enough to supply an entire house in locations with warm groundwater, however in chillier climates they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the need for warm water does not get expensive. Whichever type you choose, it will need enough amperage at the main panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last only about half as long as gas systems: Common warranties are three to 5 years. As soon as the heating elements fry, it generally costs about as much to change the entire heater as it does to switch in brand-new elements.
Tankless Water Heater in Encino Installation
What you and your plumbing professional requirement to evaluate before installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to perform correctly, it has to be linked to a gas-supply line that provides enough volume at enough pressure. In many cases that indicates the diameter of the supply pipeline has to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure fails, the gas company will need to adjust the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless systems, such as those made by Rheem, have the ability to work with a standard 1/2- inch gas line, offered it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTING: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters use stainless-steel vents that can endure high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and use less costly PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipeline, simplifies installation since only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Usually, vent runs have been restricted to simply 10 feet. But more effective fans, like those in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now allow vents to add to 150 feet.
3. WATER HARDNESS: Scale deposits that form in a heat exchanger (or on electric heating elements) slow down heat transfer and constrict water flow. Scale will not be an issue if you already have whole-house water-softening. However if your water isn’t being softened, and its hardness goes beyond 120 milligrams per liter, then it deserves investing in a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) modifies hardness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Encino
Think about the advantages of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and local codes allow.
Saves space: That’s one less device you have to make room for within.
Easy to install: The built-in exhaust vent eliminates needing to cut a big hole (or two) through the side of the house.
Easy to service: A plumbing technician can get to it at any time, whether you’re house or not. But remember …
Structure regulations: You may require consent from your regional building department to put it outside.
Winter: Internal heaters keep components toasty to − 22-degrees F, but exposed water pipes must be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on automatically in freezing temperature levels. Frozen pipes are less of a concern south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
New Tankless Water Heater Technology in Encino