[SGVLUG] OT(TTM) Tankless Water Heater

[Charles Wyble]

Something something home automation? :)

Emerson, Tom (*IC) wrote:
> -----Original Message----- Of DYN: Jim Workman
> 
> Off Topic (To The Max):
> I need to replace my water heater and am considering a tankless model.  Is anyone already using this new technology?
> Any feedback?
> =======================
> 
> I had one installed last winter - since this is now outside the house "near" the gas feed line, it is now on the "other side" of the house from where it was before.  Net result is that the taps that were close to the old location now take about a minute before the "hot" water gets there (OTOH, the bathroom just the other side of the wall from the new location gets hot water in about 5-10 seconds ;) )
> 
> Minor plus: this has freed up room inside the house for shelving / cleaning-supply storage  (although considering the actual size of these units, had I gone for an ELECTRIC heater instead of GAS, I could have installed it in the same location AND had room for vacuums, mops, and chemicals...)
> 
> Cost to run the gas line tends to be a hidden "gotcha" - if you're doing a major remodel or a new build, this would be the time to do it as the cost gets absorbed into the larger project.  Unlike a traditional heater, these need a much larger gas feed - usually 3/4" or 1", compared to a 1/2" pipe for a regular heater.  Distance from the gas main is also apparently a concern, which is why mine was mounted on the other side of the house.
> 
> So, now for the tough questions:
> 
> 1) how many people do you need to "serve" with this heater?
>    -- how many bathrooms
>       -- with shower/tubs
>    -- automatic dishwasher or do you wash them by hand?
>    -- ditto for the clothes [hey, it's possible...]
>