How to select a Tankless Water Heater (In GPM)

* How many gallons per minute (GPM) of hot water will I need? This is difficult to answer due to variables in pressure, flow rates, diameter of your water pipes, and the incoming water temperature. However, the average home uses 1-3 gallons per minute. It is unusual for any family to use over 3 gallons of water per minute. Also keep in mind the average faucet and shower run about 1.5 to 2 gallons per minute. With these figures in mind, most of our models can easily keep up with this type of demand.

* What is the average cold water faucet temperature in homes? 55-60F degrees is the average.

* Which size tankless water heater is right for me? First, you must determine the needs of the home or business. This must be compared to the capacity of the water heater being purchased. How many people are showering and at what time? Is there a specific time when more people are typically bathing? When are the washing machine, or dishwasher in use? Are these machines needed at the same time family members are bathing or showering? (Most families are familiar with using appliances that consume hot water in time periods when bathing and showering are not required.) Is there a large soaking tub or whirlpool bath? If so, what is the fill capacity in gallons? How is this tub used and how often? Is it used in a time period when the washing machine or dishwasher is running? Finally, you must establish a reasonable “peak demand” flow estimate in GPM. (Gallons Per Minute). This is done by adding up the flow rates of all hot water consuming appliances, faucets and showerheads. NOTES: (Please keep in mind that part of operating a more energy efficient home is the sensible usage of utilities. No different than recycling paper, glass, aluminum, and plastic requires more effort than simply throwing everything into a trash bin, saving energy and natural resources requires a change of habit and participation in effective economizing on behalf of all members of a family. When this is done, true energy savings and satisfying environmental results are easily seen by the residents of the home. For example, does you home have energy efficient low flow plumbing fixtures? An energy efficient shower head uses much less water than the ones of the past. It is possible to use an energy efficient tankless water heater without modern energy efficient faucets and shower heads. But does this make sense? When using low flow plumbing fixtures in combination with an energy efficient tankless water heater, you can enjoy the same comforts while consuming less energy and water as well as saving money on your utility bills.)