How about an on-demand water heater?

The water heater is dying. We have an on-demand unit upstate, in a SMALL house, that we LOVE. I’m wondering about the efficacy of installing a similar system in our 3-story, 2 family brownstone. Any thoughts/recommendations?

hopper

in Plumbers and Plumbing 12 years and 4 months ago

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jane moffat | 12 years and 2 months ago

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I’ve seen people mention that delay – but i’m on the top floor of a brownstone with a traditional water heater and there is a fifteen+ second delay (with the tub faucet full blast, longer in the kitchen since there’s less flow) so i’m not sure i understand the difference. i assume that is just because the water sitting in the pipes is going to be cold no matter what… so are people meaning that there is a 10 second ADDITIONAL delay if you have an on-demand heater?

frankya | 12 years and 3 months ago

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  Rinnal is good. We use that and it works pretty well. There’s also the type that you install and it just circulate the water which keep the water hot. but make sure you insolate your copper pipes.   Certified HVAC tech – 2 semesters =P www.hvactrainingprograms.org

hawaiismurf | 12 years and 3 months ago

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What is the advantage of on demand vs traditional water heater? Less water usage? Lower energy bills? Or is performance (pressure and immediate hot water) better?

Master Plvmber | 12 years and 4 months ago

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You need a 4-foot circle of clearance from the center of the exhaust to any door, window or other building envelope penetration to vent it legally in NYC. Also, can’t be vented into a walkway, a lot line, a landmarked façade or anything else left up to an inspector’s discretion.

widthom | 12 years and 4 months ago

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I installed a Rinnai for my 2 story unit (rental is separate) and have been very happy.  If you already have an on-demand you know about the delay when you first turn on the tap.  But if you can wait those 5-10 seconds for hot water, then you should be OK. Once it’s up, it’s hot and consistent.  Never had a problem.   Not sure this would be cost-effective for a two-family… What about installing a separate smaller unit in the rental and the tenant pays their own gas?   Good luck to you.