Tankless Water Heater Voltage Requirements

For both gas and electric models a tankless water heater s overall energy efficiency is measured using an energy factor ef rating.

Tankless water heater voltage requirements.

Unfortunately the average electric tankless water heater needs at least 120 amps to operate and the average household s total capacity is 200 amps. For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily demand water heaters can be 24 34 more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. Natural gas and propane tankless water heaters don t need much electricity and are 8 50 more effective than traditional tank style water heaters. This means you will have to upgrade your electrical system to accommodate for the larger load demand which could cost you up to 1 500.

Carpentry although you won t be working with wood you need to be familiar with levels to ensure a level base and may need to anchor pipes to ceiling beams. Recommended minimum wire gauge. Tankless water heaters can be 8 14 more energy efficient for homes that use a lot of hot water around 86 gallons per day. Electrical even gas water heaters have electrical parts and need to be hooked up to your breaker box.

Today tankless water heater energy factors range between 64 and 91 for gas fired models and up to 99 for electric models. Breaker size and wire gauge must meet all applicable local state provincial and national electrical codes for your area these are only guidelines that will apply to most installations. Rinnai tankless water heaters require 120 volts ac 60 hz and less than three amps. This ef rating is based on test procedures developed by the u s.

For example an electric tankless heater that is rated at raising the water temperature 55 degrees at 1 5 gpm will supply you with a 120 degree temperature if the incoming water is 65 f or higher. The need for a tankless water heater is 120v ac which is the regular power outlet in the u s homes.