Is An Indirect Water Heater Worth It?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Indirect water heaters are a more efficient choice for most homes , even though they require a storage tank. ... An indirect water , if used with a high-efficiency boiler and well-insulated tank, can be the least expensive means of providing , particularly if the heat source boiler is set to “cold start.”

How long do indirect hot water heaters last?

Indirect water heaters typically last 15-20 years .

What is the best indirect water heater?

Indirect water heaters are a more efficient choice for most homes , even though they require a storage tank. ... An indirect water heater, if used with a high-efficiency boiler and well-insulated tank, can be the least expensive means of providing hot water, particularly if the heat source boiler is set to “cold start.”

Do indirect water heaters run out of hot water?

An indirect system is able to provide a high volume of hot water , so if you are running short it may be that the thermostat is set too low or is broken. It may also be the result of a bad circulator or circulator relay, or the unit could be air-bound and in need of purging.

Do indirect water heaters need to be flushed?

Just remember inside the tank is your potable drinking water so needs to be flushed well to get the chemical out . The inexpensive inspection camera's could also be inserted through that bottom so you could see what it looks like before and after.

How much does it cost to install an indirect hot water heater?

Type of Water Heater Labor Costs Total Costs Tank $270 – $500 $470 – $2,000 Tankless $500 – $1,500 $950 – $4,500 Hybrid $200 – $600 $1,400 – $3,100 Indirect $1,500 – $3,500 $1,840 – $6,500

How much does it cost to replace an indirect water heater?

Although the monthly price of an indirect water heater is low, the initial purchase and water heater installation cost is more expensive than traditional heaters and is priced around $1,500 .

How do I size an indirect hot water heater?

Size the expansion tank to 10% of the water heater's capacity . Example: Heater capacity = 30 gallons / 10% requires a minimum three-gallon tank.

How does an indirect heater work?

Indirect-fired heaters are similar to oil- or gas-burning furnaces with chimneys in homes. In such units, a flame in a burn chamber warms the heat exchanger. The device draws cool air into two different chambers . The air passes over and around the heat exchanger and gets warm.

What is the difference between a direct and indirect water heater?

A direct-fired water heater can be heated by propane, oil, or natural gas and has its own burner. ... Indirect water heaters rely on the furnace or boiler to supply the heat needed for the water.

What is an indirect hot water system?

An indirect hot water cylinder typically uses an external energy source , such as a traditional central heating boiler or a solar thermal system, which is fed into the cylinder via a coil or heat exchanger which then ‘indirectly' heats the hot water.

How do you get hot water without a boiler?

Heating water without a boiler

If you have a hot water tank or cylinder in your home, you may also have an electric immersion heater . This can be used to heat water as and when you need it, but beware that this is an expensive method.

How much is a tankless water heater?

Gas Hot Water Systems

Gas water heaters with storage tanks usually range from $850 to $1,500 according to Oneflare, again with larger tanks costing more. Tanks usually fall between 135 and 360 litres in size. Tankless gas systems usually range between $750 and $1,600 .

What happens if you don't flush your water heater?

If not regularly flushed, your water heater can corrode more quickly . The sediment can also block or clog the pressure and relief valve (which helps keep your water heater from exploding).

Can hot water heaters be repaired?

A water heater can certainly be repaired , generally depending on what is going on when a plumber is called out for water heater repair. As per the common problems listed above, the general consensus for these tends to be a parts replacement, a reset of the system, or a flush of your water heater.

How do you flush your water heater?

Close the drain valve located at the tank's bottom and detach the garden hose. If still open, close the relief valve and turn the cold water inlet back on. Open a hot water tap, letting it run until there are no more air bubbles emitted. Turn your heater back on.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.