[CarlieT]

Are there any problems with this system? Seems very efficient; I would like to hear the experience others are having with this system. Thank you.

[Milo Dolezal]

You are not telling us what brand tankless heater you are planning on installing...

For example, Rinnai tankless heater (18,000 to 200,000 Btu's ) draws about 40 AMPS. So there will be more likely some electrical work to be done to feed the heater (new circuit, breaker, etc ). Meaning, the start up cost will be on high side therefore, the break-even point will take little longer. But, it will be more economical to operate tankless electric heater since these heaters don't reheat water 24/7. And you cannot beat the endless showers!!

[ballengerb1]

No real problems but the cost to purchase can be $1000 and installation is a bit more difficult than a standard heater. We'd also need to know if you plan on electric, propane or NG. The last two require venting and must adhere to strict codes and manufacturer instructions. Some brands will not warranty their unit unless you have their factory authorized pro do the install. After that its just cheap hot water 24/7.

[CarlieT]

Oh sure, no problem. I am considering an electric tankless heater. I have a small condo, approx. 1000 sq.ft, so would the cost for the unit and installation be, perhaps, less? Actually the cost isn't bad. I've read reviews from various people that the down side is, when there is a power outage, the water turns instantly cold. (I'm new in N. Virginia, not many outages, so far.) Also that it might be noisy. (I have enough noise with my uninsulated drainpipes, dang developer!) Oh, and power surges. I wouldn't want other people in the building to be affected by my unit.

Unless the units have improved on those areas, I would certainly do it!

[CarlieT]

Oh yes, I would certainly look at the Rinnai, which I have bookmarked but haven't been able to look at yet! :)

[Milo Dolezal]

CarlieT:

1. I would not worry about noise. The heater will be installed in some kind of service room or area designed for mechanical equipment. It has no fan since it is electric heater and no vent is used to run direct vent gas system. Otherwise, I cannot think about any other noise this heater would emit.
2. The cost would be the same whether it is 1,000 sq. feet condo or 2,000 sq. feet house.
3. If it is electric heater, you won't have to worry about vent.
4. Rinnai has list of trained contractors on their website they recommend. These people are factory trained. Price-wise they are just about the same, +/- few dollars.
5. Get 3 estimates. Ask lots of questions. Go with the guy you feel most comfortable with.
6. Power outages my be the only negative thing. But in case of natural disaster, chances are the gas will not be operational either. So I would not worry about it too much.

Please, let us know what you decided to do ! Milo

[CarlieT]

Thank you Milo, appreciate your expertise!

[ballengerb1]

Only thing I want to p[oint out is price is based on number of people and fixtures being used not square feet. Small units cosrt much less in the $750 ballpark while one large enough for an active family of 4-5 runs about $1200.