Full Answer
Are tankless water heaters worth the extra cost?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates gas-fired tankless heaters save an average of $108 in energy costs per year over their traditional tank counterparts, while electric tankless heaters save $44 per year. Sound good? Don’t start spending that savings just yet.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Tankless water heaters cost anywhere from $800 – $3500 for initial installation, but you will only need to pay high installation costs once. After the initial installation cost of the first water heater, you will not need to pay as much for the installation of future tankless devices.
Can tankless water heaters save money?
While it may cost more upfront, a tankless water heater will help you save a lot of money in the long run since it only heats on demand and requires minimal repairs. On top of that, it has twice the warranty period compared to a traditional water heater.
Do tankless water heaters require natural gas?
Using a series of internal heating coils, tankless natural gas water heaters convert energy provided by a natural gas source into a rapid heating procedure. Due to this efficient heating method and the overall low cost of natural gas, these specialized water heaters are the clear choice for homeowners on a budget.
See more
How much does a tankless Rinnai water heater cost?
Tankless Water Heater Cost by BrandBrandCostRheem$370–$2,000Rinnai$500–$2,300Takagi$500–$2,000Westinghouse$350–$2,0006 more rows•Aug 8, 2022
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost? Prices range from about $170 for small gas-fired units to more than $2,000 for high-output heaters that can supply two showers at the same time; $1,000 is about average. Tankless electric heaters run between $90 and $900.
How long does a Rinnai tankless water heater last?
up to 20 yearsThe life expectancy (or useful lifespan) of a Rinnai tankless water heater is up to 20 years. Actual life is impacted by water quality, usage and proper maintenance. For comparison, a tankless water heater lasts about twice as long as a tank water heater, making them a better value in the long run.
What is the downside of a tankless water heater?
In addition to high upfront costs, tankless water heaters have several other disadvantages compared to tank-style water heaters: they take longer to deliver hot water. the water temperature is inconsistent when multiple outlets are on simultaneously. they cannot provide hot water during a power outage.
What is the most common problems with tankless water heaters?
Here are six of the most common problems and maintenance concerns for tankless water heaters:Mineral Buildup.System Overload.Cold Water Sandwich.Air Supply or Exhaust Blockage.Ignition Failure.Flame Failure.
Do tankless water heaters use a lot of electricity?
The EPA estimates that a tankless water heater uses up to 34% less energy than a storage tank water heater if you use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily.
What is the best rated tankless water heater?
EcoSmart ECO 27 All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team. First up is the EcoSmart ECO 27 tankless water heater. It makes the top of our list for its competitive price tag and 92,128 BTUs of heating capacity at 99% efficiency. EcoSmart is a trusted name for pool heaters, so they know how to heat water.
How often should I flush my Rinnai tankless water heater?
once a yearOver time, a tankless water heater may accumulate mineral build up which can erode the walls inside your tank's heating chamber. To properly maintain and clean your tankless water heater, it's important to flush those mineral deposits at least once a year.
Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?
Annual or semi-annual maintenance is important for a tankless water heater, but it won't make the system last forever. Eventually you will need to replace the appliance with a new one, though a tankless system may last more than 20 years.
Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill?
Nonetheless, according to the Department of Energy, tankless units do spend less electricity than conventional water heaters that run of electricity. To reduce the electricity bill as much as possible, look for the Energy Star label.
Should I replace my hot water heater with a tankless?
Using a tankless water heater can reduce these costs by up to 50 percent, for an average annual savings of $80. They are durable and less likely to fail, causing potentially catastrophic flooding in your home. Tankless units have an average lifespan about twice that of conventional water heaters — 20 years or more.
What size tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4?
A family of 4 should look for a tankless water heater that can produce 7 gallons of hot water per minute. Most families use about 6.5 GPM during peak times. To determine the tankless water heater size, you'll need to know how many appliances your family will use simultaneously.
Is a tankless water heater worth the cost?
According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy, a tankless water heater is more efficient and uses less energy than a conventional water heater, providing a $25 to $107 in annual savings. If your hot water use is low (less than 41 gallons per day), a tankless water heater will be 24% to 34% more efficient.
Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill?
Nonetheless, according to the Department of Energy, tankless units do spend less electricity than conventional water heaters that run of electricity. To reduce the electricity bill as much as possible, look for the Energy Star label.
What size tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4?
A family of 4 should look for a tankless water heater that can produce 7 gallons of hot water per minute. Most families use about 6.5 GPM during peak times. To determine the tankless water heater size, you'll need to know how many appliances your family will use simultaneously.
Should I replace my hot water heater with a tankless?
The Pros of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater Avoid the risk of flooding due to a ruptured tank. Tankless water heaters consume less energy because they only need enough power to heat water as it's needed. Tankless water heaters are more efficient and don't experience standby heat loss.
What is a Rinnai tankless water heater?
Rinnai are a leading brand in the tankless water heater market and they are known for some of the best products available today. As a company, Rinnai were founded as far back as 1920.
How much does a Rinnai water heater cost?
A Rinnai natural gas tankless heater will cost between $700 – $2,500 for a non-condensing unit from the V, RL or RLX series and $1,250 – $3,200 for a condensing unit from the RUCS, RUR, RU or RUS series of water heaters.
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless heater?
As previously covered in our cost of tankless units section, labor costs for a natural gas or propane gas tankless unit will cost between $50 – $150 per hour. The average time required to install a gas unit would usually be between 3 and 4 hours, not taking into account any complexities. However, with additional factors taken into account, the labor cost for tankless installation can be as much as $650. Additional supplies and tools usually cost $100 – $200. The supply of an installation permit for a gas heater may cost an extra $45 – $250.
What is the lowest priced tankless heater?
The lowest priced unit in the range is the Rinnai V53 which is available as an outdoor unit only, in both propane and natural gas. Our choice would be the V65 model, which is available as both natural and propane gas, and in indoor and outdoor variants. The V65 is one of the most popular tankless heaters from Rinnai.
How long is the warranty on Rinnai tankless?
All of the Rinnai tankless products come with a warranty which means you can have peace of mind, each unit comes with a 10-year warranty and a 5 year warranty on parts.
How many series of tankless heaters are there?
Series – Currently there are multiple models of tankless heater available from 7 different series, these include the V, RL, RLX, RUCS, RUR, RUS, and RU series (shown in the images above)
What is a super high efficiency Rinnai?
Super high efficiency models from Rinnai are coded as SE and SE+ in the model name. They are a little more expensive than the high efficiency models (coded with HE and HE+) and are offered only in condensing units, which overall are more efficient than their non-condensing counterparts.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Converting or replacing a tank water heater with a tankless system costs $800 to $3,500 on average. Tankless prices depend on the brand, fuel source, and flow rate.
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless water heater?
Propane tankless water heater installation costs $700 to $4,600 total on average. Propane water heaters provide up to 11 GPM of hot water and connect to an on-site fuel tank. Installing a propane tank costs $1,200 to $2,400 for a 500-gallon tank.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heater installation takes 3 to 10 hours for a new install or 2 to 4 hours to replace an existing tankless unit. Tankless water heaters are not as easy to install as storage tank models because they require upgraded gas supply lines, new venting, and a new electrical outlet.
How much does it cost to replace a gas water heater vent?
Replacing the vent for gas exhaust costs $100 to $600. The vent system from a tank water heater cannot be reused for a tankless water heater and requires replacing. Electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour to install a new outlet or upgrade a circuit.
How long do tankless gas tanks last?
Tankless systems last 10 to 20 years (5 to 10 years longer than storage tank units). Tankless units have a 5 to 15-year warranty. Saves $40 to $200 yearly on energy bills compared to tank models. Most natural gas and propane units are eligible for a $300 federal tax credit and additional rebates.
How much does a water heater permit cost?
A water heater permit costs $25 to $250 and is required by most cities. An inspector verifies the water heater was installed correctly and won't create a hazard. Most plumbers pull the permit and include permit fees in their estimate.
What is the efficiency of a non-condensing tankless?
Non-condensing tankless models use a single heat exchanger, vent the heated exhaust outdoors, and have energy efficiency rates of 80%.
What is better than a tankless water heater?
Better Than a Tank 1 Tankless water heaters last up to twice as long as tanks 2 Save energy by heating water only when it's needed 3 Avoid costly replacement events with a maintainable and repairable tankless unit
What does the flame output do on a water heater?
Water exits the unit and travels to the water fixture where it is needed. Flame output adjusts as needed to maintain water temperature during use. With usage complete, the flame turns off and water stops flowing.
Why is recirculating hot water important?
Waiting for hot water can be frustrating, costly, and wasteful. Recirculating technology eliminates the wait, so hot water is always at the ready. Our technology permits this even if your home does not have a dedicated return line.
What is a second heat exchanger?
With a second heat exchanger, exhaust is looped back into the system to heat water more efficiently. Higher heater cost, though the venting materials are more flexible including 2” PVC. Higher energy efficiency. Must drain condensation at the bottom of the heater.
Can a tankless water heater work with propane?
Tankless water heaters can work with both natural gas and propane heat sources. If your home runs on all-electric heat, tankless may still be a viable option. Contact a Rinnai PRO for further assistance. Connect with a PRO.
Does a tankless water heater use energy?
This results in a limitless hot water supply and little to no wasted energy usage.
Is it easier to repair a tankless water heater than a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters are easier to repair than tanks, often eliminating the need to replace the unit. And many offer extended, comprehensive warranties.
How much does a tankless water heater save?
It’s true: tankless water heaters will cut up to 40% off your monthly energy bill. By heating water instantaneously and only when you need it, you and your family members can enjoy continuous, uninterrupted hot water at the same time, along with savings over a conventional tank. Now see the difference for yourself.
How to compare hot water tank?
For a comparison to your current hot water tank, simply input your zip code and select the tank’s fuel type (electric, natural gas, or propane), age, size, and number of units. You can also calculate projected savings simply by zip code, fuel type, and the tankless model.
How much will it cost me to install a tankless water heater in my home?
Tankless water heaters use high end heating elements that are placed close to the water that needs to be warmed. Regular tank storage style water heaters use a constant flow of electricity to store and heat the water, but tankless water heaters only heat water when it is necessary to do so.
What is tankless water heater?
Tankless water heaters use high end heating elements that are placed close to the water that needs to be warmed. Regular tank storage style water heaters use a constant flow of electricity to store and heat the water, but tankless water heaters only heat water when it is necessary to do so. On average, a tankless water heater will cost ...
How many gallons per minute does a tankless heater heat?
A tankless unit can heat up to 5 gallons per minute. This fact comes into play when deciding which kind of unit to use. Most single-family homes do well with a whole house heating system, which allows multiple people to bathe, a dishwasher to run, and the sink to be used all at the same time.
How much does it cost to install a plumbing system?
An average plumbing company will charge $75- $125 for this service, and installation will usually take a full working day to install and properly test the system performance throughout the home; so expect the installation cost to be around $600 – $1,000.
Where is a tankless water heater installed?
Tankless water heaters are always installed near where the water will be used. When it is needed, a heating element heats the cold water as it passes through, instead of keeping the water hot all the time like traditional water heaters.
How much does it cost to remove an old heating system?
Old system removal: in order to install a new heating system, you must first have the old system removed and disposed of. This can cost up to $300-$600 depending on how difficult the existing system is to remove.
How much does it cost to maintain a water heater?
Maintenance: if your water heater needs any maintenance, you can expect to pay the fees of a standard plumbing project ($75-$125 an hour). Typically, the maintenance project takes about 3 hours. Most plumbing companies charge a standard minimum of 4hrs.
What size gas line does a Rinnai tankless water heater use?
What size gas line does a Rinnai Tankless Water Heater require? Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters are designed to provide maximum performance and efficiency using either a 3/4" or 1/2" gas line, as long as sufficient gas flow is available. An undersized gas line can stress a tankless system and possibly reduce its lifespan, all Rinnai tankless water heaters are equipped with technology that safely ceases operation if they detect an inadequate gas flow. This innovative feature safeguards the unit from compromising performance and efficiency.
How long does it take for a Rinnai water heater to get hot?
The wait time to get hot water is primarily determined by the distance between the water heater and the point of use. Rinnai tankless hot water heaters produce hot water within just a few seconds of first water flow from a cold start. However, all the cold water must be purged out of the pipe between the hot water heater and your point of use. For example, if your kitchen sink is 50 feet from the hot water heater and the water flow rate is one gallon per minute, it will take 90 seconds or so for hot water to reach your sink.
How to get hot water when low flow faucet?
If you find you’re not getting the hot water you need, start by lowering the temperature setting on your tankless water heater by a couple of degrees. It’s counterintuitive, but it affects the hot/cold mix ratio and will activate the tankless water heater unit for lower-flow fixtures.
Why does my tankless water heater feel cold?
Your tankless water heater will feel cold to the touch when the heater unit and pumps are in the rest state and not heating water. There’s nothing to worry about. As long as everything is working properly (e.g. you have hot water on demand), there is no cause for concern.
What is a Rinnai hydronic air handler?
The Rinnai Hydronic Air Handler System easily integrates with select tankless water heaters or boilers to deliver energy-efficient warmth.
What is a Rinnai direct vent furnace?
Rinnai Direct Vent Furnaces use modulating technology to create energy-efficient warmth for the whole home.
How to contact Rinnai?
Please contact Rinnai or your local installer to troubleshoot the codes and find the root cause. Send us a message or call our Customer Care team at 1-800-621-9419. We are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
Cost
Safety
- To make sure a building stays up to code for the safety of the inhabitants, all renovations, retrofits to the infrastructure, and structural improvements will have to get a permit to ensure compliance with federal and local building, construction, and zoning codes. Expect to pay somewhere in the region of $200 to $500 for the permits.
Advantages
- For some homeowners with a tank water heater/boiler already installed, it is far more efficient to install a few tankless water heaters in bathrooms as the family grows in size and the demand for simultaneous hot water increases. The power vent systems only need an exhaust vent, and the unit has to be installed in a location that provides the right amount of air required for combustio…
Models
- Tankless gas models are available in a wide range of styles and size and produce output from 140,000 BTUs to 380,000 BTUs.
Performance
- In addition to not heating water unnecessarily while you are not home, tankless water heaters are 24%-34% more energy efficient and dont lose any heat, which traditional tank water heaters do. That reflects savings close to the cost of the system throughout 10 years of use. The average GPM capacity of most residential tankless water heaters is between 25 gallons per minute, with …
Marketing
- Traditional tank water heaters are sold clearly marked with their capacity in gallons on a label on the tank. Tankless water heaters are different in their rating systemthey are sold according to the demand they can meet, the flow rate, and are measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
Example
- Calculate the maximum simultaneous demand for hot water in the house, and youll know which system(s) should be installed and where it should be located. Because of the demands of larger households, it might make sense to install one or more additional tankless units. A house in a warmer climate will require a tankless system with a lower gallons-per-minute rating than a hom…
Terminology
- The difference between the temperature of the water from the local supply coming into the home and the temperature of the water that the water heater produces is called rise.
Benefits
- The benefits of a tankless water heater system far outweigh those of a stored-water tank heater. The following is a list of the aspects you can look forward to:
Prevention
- To prevent serious health issues from interior air contamination, gas-powered tankless water heaters require special venting to remove the hot carbon monoxide exhaust fumes and expel them to the outside air.
Operation
- The direct vent system draws in air from outside, and instead of just one vent, it has a second one for intake in addition to the exhaust vent. One of the upsides to the direct vent system is that because of the second vent, these systems can be installed in tighter spaces. Typically, the systems are set up to vent through the roof or exterior walls, using fans to assist in the process. …
Climate
- For most residential water heaters, the maximum temperature most homeowners will set their heaters to is 120 degrees, because beyond that can cause scalding.