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augiemike · Mar 19, 2015, 10:46 AM

I'm having a jacuzzi walk-in tub installed for my disabled wife. It holds 80 gallons empty and somewhat less with a person in it. I was told I would need another water heater (one 40 gal. gas is installed) to accommodate the hot water needs for the tub. The contractor suggested a 50 high efficiency gas water heater installed in series. I was wondering if an electric tankless heater dedicated to the tub would be more energy efficient, since the tub would be used only once or twice a week. Any comments and/or suggestions are welcome.

Mike

ballengerb1 · Mar 19, 2015, 10:57 AM

That is the main reasion for a tankless heater, highly efficient and unending supply of hot water. Be prepared to pay about $1200 if you do the work.

Milo Dolezal · Mar 19, 2015, 06:47 PM

Agree with Ballengerb1...

Installing other w/h in series is not a bad option, either... Gas costs lot less than electrical. Electrical heater required at least 30 AMP dedicated breaker and dedicated electrical line. It just may be cost ineffective to use electric heater.

If it was my house, I would install gas Tankless Water Heater. It heats up water only when you open hot water valve at the tub - and idles with zero consumption when not in use.

Milo

ballengerb1 · Mar 19, 2015, 06:56 PM

I am not even sure a 40 and a 50 would be enough for an 80 gallon hot bath. Plus you'd be heating 90 gallons of water 24/7. Milo and I both would go with a tankless. Most of the companies have charts to figure your usage so you might not have to buy the largest unit out there. If you have a Menards box store near you they are about to have their 11% off everything sale, just saying.