Sizing Matters: How to Choose the Right Tankless Water Heater for Your Home

Ready to upgrade your water heating system to a tankless option? Great choice! Tankless water heaters are efficient, space-saving, and long-lasting. But one crucial question remains: What size tankless water heater do you need for your home? A.M. Plumbing & Rooter, your go-to team for all things hot water heater, is here to help you address that concern and make the best decision for your household.

Why Does Proper Sizing Matter When It Comes to Tankless Units?

The answer is simple – it’s to ensure you have enough hot water for all your daily needs. A unit too small and you’ll find yourself running out of hot water mid-shower, while one too large will result in unnecessary energy waste and higher utility bills. Choosing the wrong size can also affect the lifespan of your appliance, causing it to work harder and wear out quicker, necessitating frequent water heater repair in Carlsbad, CA.

Consider Peak Hot Water Demand

This includes all the activities requiring hot water, such as showering, washing dishes or clothes, and running multiple faucets at once. The number of people living in your household will also play a role in determining the peak demand. For example, a family of four will have a higher demand than someone living alone.

Factor in the Temperature Rise

This is the difference between the incoming cold water temperature and the desired hot water temperature. For instance, if the cold water temperature is 55°F and you want your hot water to be at 120°F, the temperature rise would be 65°F. This varies depending on your location and climate.

Determine the Flow Rate and GPM Requirements

Flow rate is the amount of hot water a tankless unit can produce per minute, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). This will also depend on your peak demand and the number of appliances or fixtures using hot water simultaneously. A simple calculation of adding up the flow rates of all your fixtures and appliances will give you an idea of the GPM requirement for your household. A higher number means you’ll need a larger tankless water heater.

Consult with a Professional Plumber

But if all this math is starting to give you a headache, don’t worry. Professional water heater services can help you. They will cover all the abovementioned factors and recommend the best unit for your needs. They will consider all your household’s unique factors, such as the type of fuel used, gas line size, and existing plumbing configuration.

A.M. Plumbing & Rooter knows that water heater installation is a significant investment. To ensure you get the most out of it, we are committed to providing expert advice and quality services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.