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Tankless Water Heaters for Mid-size Homes’ Ultimate Installation Checklist
Choosing the best water heater for your home can be challenging, especially when balancing efficiency, cost, and space-saving benefits. Tankless water heaters, also known as on demand water heaters, have become a popular choice for mid-size homes due to their energy efficiency, convenience, and space-saving features. These water heaters only heat water when needed, eliminating the energy waste of traditional hot water tank heaters, which constantly keep a tank of water hot.
Installing a tankless water heater in a mid-size home can significantly reduce energy costs while delivering a continuous hot water supply. However, to maximize the performance and lifespan of your water heater, proper installation is essential. A thorough installation checklist ensures the water heating system is set up correctly. By following these steps, you can guarantee your tankless instant water heater operates safely and efficiently, providing reliable hot water on demand without complications or performance issues. Proper water heater setup is critical to long-term satisfaction and savings.
In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about installing a tankless water heater for your mid-size home, focusing on models from Eccotemp. Whether you’re interested in a natural gas tankless water heater, a propane tankless hot water heater, or looking for the best tankless water heater options, we’ll guide you through the essentials.
Understanding Mid-Size Homes and Tankless Water Heaters
What is a Mid-Size Home?
A mid-size home typically refers to a house with one to two bathrooms, three bedrooms, and around 1,500 to 2,000 square feet. These homes have moderate water usage needs, making them ideal candidates for a tankless gas water heater. In a mid-size home, a natural gas tankless water heater or propane tankless water heater can meet hot water demands efficiently without requiring a large storage tank.
Why Tankless Water Heaters Are Ideal for Mid-Size Homes?
Tankless gas water heaters are an excellent choice for mid-size homes, offering hot water on demand so you never run out, even during high usage periods. Whether you're running the shower, kitchen sink, or dishwasher simultaneously, a properly sized gas tankless hot water heater can handle your household's needs effortlessly. These water heaters provide energy efficiency and consistent water heating, making them a smart solution for mid-size homes. Here are some key benefits that make tankless water boilers ideal for these settings:
- Energy efficiency: Since tankless gas hot water heaters only heat water when you need it, they can significantly reduce energy consumption. A gas tankless water heater or propane on demand water heater can lower your energy bills by up to 30% compared to traditional water heaters.
- Unlimited hot water: With a continuous water heater, you can enjoy an endless hot water supply for multiple applications.
- Space-saving: Tankless instant water heaters are compact and can be wall-mounted, freeing up valuable space in your home.
- Lower tankless water heater cost in the long run: While the initial tankless gas hot water heater installation may be higher than a traditional system, the energy savings over time often make up for it and it will give a lower tankless water heater cost in the long run.
Eccotemp Tankless Water Heater Models
Eccotemp is known for delivering top-quality indoor tankless water heaters, making them an excellent choice for mid-size homes. Their tankless water geysers deliver reliable hot water on demand, meeting the needs of households with moderate water usage. Below is a brief overview of the best Eccotemp tankless water geyser models that perfectly suit homes with average hot water needs, ensuring consistent performance while helping you save on energy costs:
FVi12 Series
- Key Features: The FVi12 Series is perfect for smaller to mid-size homes, offering a flow rate of 4.0 GPM. Available in liquid propane tankless water heater or natural gas water heater option that provides efficient hot water delivery.
- Benefits: The compact design allows for easy installation indoors, making it ideal for homes with limited space. The FVi12 is known for its energy efficiency, saving homeowners on utility bills by heating water only when needed.
i12 Series
- Key Features: Rated at 4.0 GPM, the i12 Series indoor tankless water heaters is suitable for smaller single-family homes, apartments, condos, cabins, and small commercial spaces with 1-2 hot water applications simultaneously. It has an advanced 0.7 GPM low-flow ignition technology, making it one of the best gas water heaters for mid-size homes. Available in either a liquid propane water heater or a natural gas water heater model.
- Benefits: The i12 tankless boiler is available in propane water heater and natural gas models, offering flexibility depending on your home’s energy source. It is also very energy-efficient, with a sleek and modern design that makes it a smart choice for homes looking to upgrade their hot water system.
SH12-A Series
- Key Features: The SH12-A Series tankless boiler offers a 4.0 GPM flow rate, making it perfect for mid-size homes with moderate hot water demands. SH12-A Series is a smart gas water heater, offered in either a liquid propane water heater or a natural gas water heater option. This smart water heater features advanced temperature controls for precision heating, along with smart technology like Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote control through the Eccotemp mobile Additionally, it supports voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Home, allowing hands-free control of your water heater.
- Benefits: This smart water heater is compact yet powerful, this tankless instant water heater model is designed for 1-2 applications with a temperature range of 95-140 degrees Fahrenheit. The SH12-A Series smart tankless water heater also includes an Eco Mode feature, which reduces energy consumption by up to 25% by adjusting the smart gas water heater's settings for optimal efficiency. This mode helps lower utility costs by conserving energy when hot water demand is low, providing both convenience and savings. You can easily activate Eco Mode via the Eccotemp Smart App, enhancing the overall energy efficiency of your home.
SHLX Series
- Key Features: The SHLX Series is also a smart tankless water heater, equipped with cutting-edge technology for maximum convenience and efficiency. Also available in either a liquid propane on demand water heater or a natural gas tankless water heater option. This WIFI water heater also features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the heater remotely through the Eccotemp mobile app. The series also integrates voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, offering hands-free operation. Additionally, the SHLX Series includes real-time energy consumption tracking and maintenance alerts, empowering homeowners to optimize their hot water usage and monitor performance seamlessly.
- Benefits: The SHLX Series tankless water geyser, with its impressive flow rate of 4.5 GPM, 80,000 BTU capacity, and a temperature rise of 35 degrees, is perfect for homes with elevated hot water needs, effortlessly handling 1-2 simultaneous applications. This indoor tankless water heater is a WIFI water heater with smart features that streamline temperature control, scheduling, and energy management, while the Eco Mode and customizable settings help lower energy costs. In addition to its advanced functionality, the SHLX Series features a sleek, contemporary design that enhances your home’s decor and a compact, wall-mounted configuration that saves valuable space. This model combines style and cutting-edge technology to deliver a continuous hot water supply and improve overall home efficiency.
Pre-Installation Considerations
Before installing a tankless gas water heater, you need to assess several factors to ensure you select the right water heater model and place it in an optimal location.
1. Evaluating Your Home’s Water and Gas Supply
First, confirm that your home's water pressure meets the tankless geyser's recommended specifications to ensure optimal performance. For gas-powered tankless hot water heaters, such as propane water heaters or natural gas tankless water heaters, check that your gas supply is sufficient and that your home's gas lines are compatible with the selected model. Proper assessment of both water pressure and gas supply is crucial for the efficient and reliable operation of your tankless on demand water heater.
2. Determining the Right Model for Your Home Size and Hot Water Needs
For mid-size homes, models such as the FVi12, i12, SH12-A, or SHLX series tankless boilers are well-suited to meet your hot water demands. The best gas water heater choice for you will depend on factors like the number of simultaneous water uses (such as showers, sinks, and dishwashers) and the overall square footage of your home. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a natural gas or propane tankless water heater to match your specific needs and preferences.
3. Evaluating the Installation Location
Tankless water heaters can be installed indoors or outdoors. For mid-size homes, installing your tankless gas water heaters indoors close to the most-used outlets, like bathrooms and kitchens, will ensure quick hot water delivery. Indoor tankless water heaters like the FVi12 and i12 require proper ventilation and clearance from combustible materials, so make sure to evaluate the space for safety.
4. Understanding Local Building Codes and Permits
Before you begin the installation process, it’s important to check your local building codes. Many areas require specific permits for installing a continuous water heater. Ensure your installation meets local safety and energy regulations, and if necessary, consult with a professional installer.
Tankless Water Heater Installation Checklist
Proper installation of your tankless gas water heater ensures it runs efficiently and safely for years to come. Below is a checklist you can follow to make sure every aspect of your water heater installation is covered.
1. Water Heater Location
- Installed Indoors: Ensure your tankless gas water heater is installed indoors for protection against the elements.
- Close to Area of Mostly Used Outlet: Installing the continuous water heater near the most frequently used water outlet ensures smoother operation and quicker access to hot water. This strategic placement minimizes wait time and enhances the overall efficiency of your water heater by reducing the distance the hot water needs to travel.
- Protected from Freezing Temperatures: Freezing temperatures can damage your tankless gas water heater. Ensure the location is well-insulated.
- Proper Clearance from Combustible Surfaces Observed: Maintain adequate distance between the water heater and any combustible materials to prevent fire hazards.
- Sufficient Fresh Air Supply for Proper Operation of Water Heater: Make sure the gas tankless hot water heater has access to fresh air for proper combustion, especially for gas tankless water heaters.
- Air Supply Free of Corrosive Elements and Flammable Vapors: Avoid installing the instantaneous water heater in areas with corrosive gases or vapors that can damage the instantaneous hot water heater.
- Provisions Made to Protect Area from Water Damage: Install drip pans or other protective measures to guard against potential leaks.
- Sufficient Room to Service Heater: Leave enough space around the water heater for maintenance and repairs.
- Combustible Materials Clear of the Heater and Vent Piping: Ensure that no flammable materials are near the heater. (Example: clothing, cleaning materials, rags, etc.)
- Water Heater Properly Attached to the Wall: Secure the tankless instant hot water heater to the wall with proper mounting equipment to prevent accidents.
2. Water Supply
- Water Supply Has Sufficient Pressure: Your home’s water pressure should meet the recommended pressure for your gas tankless hot water heater.
- Air Purged from Water Heater and Piping: Remove any air trapped in the tankless hot water heater and pipes to avoid disruptions in water flow.
- Water Connections Tight and Free of Leaks: Check for any leaks around water connections.
- Water Filter is Clean and in Place: Ensure the water filter is installed and clean to prevent debris from entering the system.
- Materials Used are as Instructed in This Manual: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing water pipes and fittings.
- Water Pipes are Insulated: Insulating water pipes prevent heat loss and protect against freezing.
3. Gas Supply
- Gas Type Matches Rating Plate: Ensure your gas supply matches the requirements of your continuous water heater (propane or natural gas).
- Gas Supply Pressure is Sufficient for the Water Heater: Verify that your gas line provides adequate pressure for the tankless hot water heater to operate.
- Gas Line Equipped with Shut-Off Valve, Union, and Sediment Trap: Install safety features like a shut-off valve and sediment trap in the gas line.
- Approved pipe joint compound used: Use the correct sealant to prevent gas leaks.
- Commercial leak detector or soap and water solution to check all connections and fittings for possible gas leaks: Always check for gas leaks during installation.
- Gas company inspected installation (if required): Contact your local gas company if an inspection is needed for safety compliance.
4. Relief Valve
- Pressure Relief Valve Properly and Discharge Line Run to Open Drain: Install the pressure relief valve as directed.
- Discharge Line Protected from Freezing: Ensure the discharge line is insulated or protected to prevent freezing, maintaining efficient operation in cold conditions.
5. Electric Wiring
- Voltage Matches Rating Plate: Ensure the voltage supplied to the tankless geyser matches the rating plate to avoid performance issues or potential damage.
- Water Heater is Properly Grounded: Properly grounding the water heater ensures electrical safety, preventing shock hazards and protecting the tankless water boiler from electrical surges.
- Wiring Meets All Local Codes: Ensure the wiring complies with local electrical codes to guarantee safe installation and prevent potential hazards or violations.
- GFCI Protection Where Required: Install GFCI protection where required to prevent electrical shocks in wet areas, ensuring safety and code compliance.
Importance of the Installation Checklist
The installation checklist is crucial for ensuring that your tankless hot water heater functions efficiently and safely. It covers essential aspects such as proper location, adequate water and gas supply, and compliance with safety standards. Following this checklist helps prevent issues like leaks, inefficient performance, and potential hazards, ensuring long-term reliability and optimal performance.
FAQs
Question: What size tankless water heater is best for a mid-size home?
Answer: For a mid-size home, a tankless water heater with a flow rate between 4.0 to 4.5 gallons per minute (GPM) is typically sufficient, depending on your household's hot water needs.
Question: Can I install a tankless water heater myself, or do I need a professional?
Answer: While some homeowners with plumbing and electrical skills might feel comfortable installing a gas tankless hot water heater, it’s often recommended to hire a professional. Installation involves gas, water, and electrical connections, and proper installation ensures the system operates safely and efficiently.
Question: What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor tankless instant hot water heaters?
Answer: Indoor tankless instant water heaters are installed inside the home and require proper venting to the outside, while outdoor tankless instant water heater models are designed for exterior installation without the need for extensive venting. Mid-size homes often benefit from indoor models like the SH12-A Series and SHLX Series for easier maintenance and weather protection.
Question: How often should a tankless instant water heater be maintained?
Answer: Annual maintenance is essential for keeping your tankless instant hot water heater operating at peak performance. Key tasks such as descaling, flushing, and inspecting filters help prevent mineral buildup and prolong the tankless geyser's lifespan. Regular upkeep ensures your on-demand water heater remains efficient and reliable for years to come.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tankless water heater for your mid-size home is a smart investment in energy efficiency, convenience, and long-term cost savings. With models like the Eccotemp FVi12, i12, SH12-A, and SHLX Series, you can enjoy continuous hot water without worrying about running out during peak usage times. By following the installation checklist, you’ll ensure your new water heater is installed correctly and operates at its highest efficiency for years to come.
If you're considering a tankless water heater installation, be sure to follow this checklist to get the most out of your new water heating system. Whether you’re upgrading from a traditional water heater tank or installing a tankless hot water heater for the first time, taking the time to install it properly will pay off with reliable, energy-efficient hot water.
