Commonplace in Japan and Europe, tankless water heaters are now available throughout the United States.
“Propane tankless water heaters are another great way for builders to offer home owners innovative new technology that increases energy efficiency and customer comfort,” said Jim Hitzemann, chairman of the Propane Education & Research Council’s Home Builder Subcommittee, Huntersville, NC. “Just as importantly, they are versatile and easy to install.”
Tankless water heaters also save space. At the 2004 International Builders’ Show, Rinnai tankless propane water heaters installed in the 5,300-square-foot Ultimate Family Home required 16 fewer square feet of space than a comparable conventional tank heater. Another space-efficient model by Takagi Industrial Co. USA provides 240 gallons of hot water per hour and occupies only 2.2 cubic feet of space.
Installation is easy for builders, the council says. Manufacturers now produce energy-efficient propane-fueled direct-vent models, requiring no chimney or vertical venting. And most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years, compared to 10-15 years for storage tank water heaters, which are also labor-intensive to replace.
Most propane-powered tankless water heaters provide three to five gallons per minute of hot water, allowing for custom installation as a whole-house water heater, a hot water source for a remote bathroom or hot tub, or even as a boiler to provide hot water for a home heating system. Tankless water heaters are also versatile enough to be used in separate structures — indoor or outdoor — such as greenhouses or garages.
“Propane retailers across the country can help builders learn more about models of tankless water heaters, as well as installation options,” said Hitzemann. “Plus, propane retailers can help builders throughout planning and construction.”
To learn more about propane tankless water heaters, or to find a local propane retailer, click here.
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