Suppose you have been long enough searching the market and the internet for the right tankless hot water heater. In that case, the chances are that you have come across the same name over and over.
Noritz, Rinnai, and Navien are some of the big-name eater heaters in the market. The advertisements seem that all of them are great water heaters, but which one is good for you? Here will tell you everything you need to make an informed decision. Keep reading to choose the best tankless hot water heater for your house this winter.
What is a tankless water heater?
Tankless hot water heaters are the new generation of water heater that does not use a tank to store hot water. They take less space and cost less in marinating and energy bills. Because water will be heated once you turn the tap on otherwise, there is no need to heat water. Considering all the above advantages of a tankless heater, the initial cost of buying and installing it is higher than the traditional one. However, you are investing in a better water heater that will reduce your energy bill a lot.
What to consider when choosing a water heater?
There are so many things you should consider when choosing a water heater. Here we are going through some of them:
- How much hot water do you use?
A tankless hot water heater does not have a tank, so there is no stored heated water. Sometimes you need more than one tankless water heater to ensure you will never run out of hot water.
- What is the temperature rise?
The temperature rise is the difference between the temperature of the groundwater and the temperature you want your water to be heated to. You should consider your region’s climate when buying a water heater as well.
- What is your home energy source?
Water heaters use a different types of energy sources. Some of them use electricity, and others use gas to heat water. You should think about your home energy source and the cost of electricity and gas.
- What is your budget?
Some water heaters are more expensive than others, so you need to make a cost comparison to stay within your budget.
Noritz
The next water heater you will find on the market is Noritz NR981-NG. This unit has 9.8 gallons per minute capacity, just like the Rinnai. It works with gas and is considered one of the most lightweight units in the market. It weighs 54 pounds. This model has a maximum temperature of 180 degrees F.
Pros and cons of Noritz
- You can install this device indoors or outdoors.
- The unit has an elevation adjustment, making it the best choice for those who live at high elevations.
But the unit has a few cons to consider too:
- The installation cost is high because installing the unit yourself might be problematic.
- If you place the heater away from the shower or the faucet, it takes one minute for the water to be hot.
Rinnai
When looking for the right water heater Rinnai RUC98iN is one of the first options. It has a 9.8 GPM (gallon per minute) flow and capacity. Rinnai uses gas to heat the water. Suppose you are thinking about installing the water heater outside of your house. In that case, you should go for other water heaters because this tankless water heater can only be used for indoor installation.
The Rinnai can heat water up to 98 degrees F to 140 degrees F. if you need to heat water up to 185 degrees F, you need to buy the commercial controller, which is sold separately.
This model has a 12-year guarantee and a 5-year guarantee for parts. If you live in a small house, this water heater is perfect for you; it weighs 82 pounds and measures 10″ by 18.5″ by 26″.
Advantages and disadvantages of Rinnai
- Rinnai can heat water quickly, and it is considered one of the quietest units on the market. Stan next to it, and you won’t hear a thing.
- The instruction is easy, and everyone can understand it. On the other hand, great customer service is available that will provide you with the necessary information.
There are some downsides to buying this unit too.
- If you are an expert plumber, you do not have any problem installing this unit; otherwise, you need to pat for professional installation.
- If you are far away from the unit, you might need t wait for up to one minute for the water to be heated.
Navien
Navien is a Japanese brand specializing in producing highly efficient and environmentally-friendly water heaters. The Navien NPE-240A is the next model you will find on the market. It has an 11.2 GPM capacity and uses natural gas to heat water.
You can hang it on the wall as well, and it only weighs 82 pounds. The residential heating of the unit is from 98 to 140 degrees F.
The pros and cons of Navien
- With 11.2 GMP, you will always have hot water in your house.
- There is a buffer tank that is insulated and prevent cold water sandwiches in the middle of a shower. So no more cold-showers.
- It can heat water to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
There are somethings that could be better as well:
- The unit is not as quiet as the Rinnai water heater, so installing it away from the bedrooms is recommended.
- If your shower is far from where the heater is installed, it might take up to one minute for the water to be hot.
The best Hot Water Heater for 2022
There is no best of all water heater on the market. The only things that make a unit best for you are your preferences and needs. So before buying a tankless water heater, think about your household needs to choose a boiler that can handle those needs.