A year ago, we installed a washing machine that does not use hot water from the water heater. It's got a built-in heater.
Today, I need to replace the hot water tank and I need to know how to calculate the size I need in consideration of the fact that it is not used for laundry purposes. What is the equation? or do you know a site that would explain the different things to take into consideration?
No resale consideration here. This is our last house and we are just trying to make it as green and cheap to live in as possible.
Thanks
2007-12-02 05:14:14 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Other - Home & Garden
I did think of point of use heaters but my memories of them (from over 30 years ago) is of showers going from normal temp to super cold or super hot. lol. Are they now better at keeping the temperature you constant throughout the period of use?
What's the emergency? No hot water!
2007-12-02 05:45:25 · update #1
I'm assuming that you are replacing the water heater itself? Not the tank in the washing machine? If that is the case, then you should consider a tankless water heater. Its the "green" way to go and since this your last house it would be worth the investment. If you still decide on a regular water heater, I would not go with less than a 40 gallon tank, preferably a 50 gallon model.
2007-12-02 05:19:14 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Although your washing machine does not require pre-heated water, do you have a dishwasher,and how many people live in your home? Consider these items when sizing the water heater,and also, think about what the next people may need when and if you decide to sell this home.
The average size for a water heater, for the normal family of three to five would be either a 40gal, high recovery, or a normal recovery 50 gal.
The average home today has the 40 gallon as standard, and is great if it's a high recovery unit.
You might also look into the water on demand heater, which does not heat a tank full of water, only to set and cool off some between use. The demand heaters are small, wall mounted units, a little more expensive to purchase than a standard water heater, but much more efficient, and only heat water as needed, and fast.
I do not believe this type would be so good with well water because of the high mineral content which would coat the system and ruin the heating radiators, but check with your dealer for his thoughts. These "on demand heaters" are really great,and much cheaper to operate than the conventional water heater.
Jack the toad, talk about stupid answers, you take the cake, I bet you never installed a water heater in your life.
Everyone has a right to their likes and dislikes, and opinions, so what gives you the right to judge them all wrong?
2007-12-02 05:28:09 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you and your spouse like to take a nice hot shower and not run out of hot water, then you need minimum of a 40 gallon unit. If you're using an electric system, then 50 would be even better, (the gas models recover quicker than electric). Don't consider anything less than 40 gal, as even a 30 gal. unit in most areas, will cost very nearly the same. 30 gal. heaters are considered to be point of use now. You don't need to worry about wrapping it with an insulation blanket either, as the new units are all manufacturer with approx. 1-1 1/2" of foam injected inbetween the tank and the outer shell. It insulates so well you don't need the blankets anymore.
2007-12-02 09:52:33 · answer #3 · answered by Corky R 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you considered a point of use hot water heater instead of installing another tank heater? They only make hot water when and where you need it. A trip to home depot or local super sized hardware store and a stroll down the water heater isle will give you a good idea of all the options available.
2007-12-02 05:23:53 · answer #4 · answered by D S 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Most apprasers base the Hot water heater on the Tub and the about of bathrooms in the house. I say big or 40 gallons will work just fine..Remember turn down the temp level during the summer!!
2007-12-02 05:21:13 · answer #5 · answered by Brother Enrique 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The link below has information on it that says to consult the manufacturer for recommendations. New tanks might either have the info on a sticker on the heater or in the manual with it. If you go to Lowe's or Home Depot you might find someone there who knows from experience versus going to Sears and talking to a man or woman who is there to sell.
2007-12-02 05:33:38 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I don`t see what the Emergency is! Why not replace it with what you had? Just because you don`t use it for laundry has nothing to do with it. Avoid taking hot showers and you can eliminate the water heater completely and save the cost of the purchase
2007-12-02 05:23:46 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
A reputable plumber should be able to leave a bill and accept payment by mail.
2016-05-27 06:18:39 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
go 1 size smaller than the one coming out
2007-12-02 05:19:53 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
All depends on how long you want to be in a "hot" shower.
2007-12-02 05:17:56 · answer #10 · answered by budokie 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋