What Is The Difference Between A Direct Vent And Power Vent Water Heater?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Since a power vent water heater eliminates the potential for backdraft, they greatly lower the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, although it is not totally eliminated. Energy savings is another benefit. Power vent water heaters are

more energy efficient

, so they require less gas to operate.

What is the advantage of a direct vent water heater?

When using a direct vent water heater,

water is heated by the heat of fuel combustion

. A direct vent system typically results in lower water heating costs, because the exhaust gases are vented vertically, with no extra power required as is the case with the power vent water heater.

Are power vent water heaters better?

Since a power vent water heater eliminates the potential for backdraft, they greatly lower the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, although it is not totally eliminated. Energy savings is another benefit. Power vent water heaters are

more energy efficient

, so they require less gas to operate.

Is a direct vent water heater more efficient?

Another benefit offered by a powervent water heater is lower energy consumption. They’re

more efficient

, so they use less fuel… but not a lot less. … Because they don’t use a vent that runs up through the middle of the house, powervent water heaters give a lot more flexibility when it comes to locating the unit.

Does a direct vent water heater need electricity?

Must Use Electricity: The blower in power vent water

heaters must be attached to an electrical source to run

. Depending on where your water heater will be located, you may have to install an extra electrical outlet nearby, which is another cost factor.

Can I replace a power vent water heater with a direct vent?

Direct venting and power venting systems offer greater flexibility, because neither requires a direct line to the roof. … This difference in operation means that you can install a direct vent system

almost anywhere

, but a power vented water heater must be placed in a room with adequate airflow.

How long does a power vent water heater last?

How Long Do Water Heaters Last? Based on the manufacturer’s suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is

about eight to 12 years

. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.

What is the difference between direct vent and non direct vent?

Direct vent (two-pipe) vent system – This system uses one pipe to bring in outside air for combustion and another to remove exhaust gases. Non-direct (single-pipe) vent system – This system uses only one pipe to remove exhaust gases.

Can I vent my hot water heater through the wall?

Venting. All natural gas water heaters must be vented to the outdoors to remove the byproducts of combustion.

Atmospherically venting gas water heaters

is the most common type of venting option used. … The vents go directly through an outside wall, and can also bring in combustion air to the gas burner.

Do gas water heaters need venting?

All water heaters that burn natural gas or liquid propane (LP)

gas require a venting system

. The process of burning of the gas is called combustion and it creates heat, exhaust gases (including highly poisonous carbon monoxide), and moisture.

How much does it cost to install a direct vent water heater?

Type Average Costs (Installed) Direct Vent

$350 – $4,000
Power Vent $1,050 – $5,000

How do direct vent water heaters work?

A direct vent water heater

draws air for combustion from outside your home rather than inside

. The exhaust gases and excess heat produced by your water heater are then vented back outdoors. … They pull and push air from outside to negate any backdrafting within your home.

Are power vent water heaters loud?

Many people complain about power vent water heaters because

they create too much noise

. We’ve got a few ways to help you reduce the noise and keep everyone happy. There are many different ways you can reduce the noise; some are easier than others.

Why are power vent water heaters so expensive?

A power vent water heater will

cost more initially due to extra equipment needed such as the fan and blower

. Also, you will need to run a power line to the fan which will also add to the cost.

Can I vent my water heater with my furnace?

Many homes are built with the water heater and furnace sharing the same exhaust vent. This practice is common with standard efficiency (80%) furnaces. When installed correctly, this venting arrangement works with an 80% gas furnace (or less than 80%) + gas water heater.

How high does a water heater vent need to be?

Single-wall metal pipe shall extend

at least 2 feet (610 mm) above the highest point

where it passes through a roof of a building and at least 2 feet (610 mm) higher than any portion of a building within a horizontal distance of 10 feet (3048 mm).

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.