Replies

1. 
   david_thodal | May 06, 2001 08:52pm | #1

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   Ivan, Right up front I would say you would save on your domestic hot water costs with on-demand heater. First off there are only two of you and my guess your demand for hot water would be high maybe one hour out of each day, thus you would be keeping water hot for the other twentythree with a tank water heater. Also even if you increased that use demand significantly, your savings would still continue.

   I have a question as to the two zones of hot water. One for master suite? The necessity of using two zones would increase the initial cost of two heaters, but the savings would be there for both zones.

   Some consideratins: Do you have an area already assigned for a gas-fired heater that accounts for ventalation and install? Unlike electric water heaters, most gas fired on-demand heaters have specific requirements for location to insure safety.

   Can you for now plumb both zones to run off one heater? I have an Aquastar 125NG which with some minor adjustments in my family's water use has supplyed us dependably with hot water for close to 6 years now. 2 adults and a daughter, 2 bathrooms etc. It gets a workout and still saves on our water heating bills.

   I would reccomend that what ever you chose, insulate your hot water pipes. The on-demand will respond quicker and the tank heater will operate a bit more efficiently.

   For more info, check out
   http://www.realgoods.com
   http://www.buildinggreen.com search the archives for tankless water heaters
   http://www.controlledenergy.com
   or check the Breaktime archives as this subject has been repeated covered.

   My choice for a heater is the Aquastar 125NG

   walk good

   david

2. 
   Ivan_Warrington | May 06, 2001 08:53pm | #2

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   I have to make a decision next week on tankless or cold water heaters. The more I look at it it looks like tankless is the best way to save energy. There are only two of us and the house is zoned for 2 52 gal heaters. Is tankless the way to go?

   Ivan