what size tankless water heater for mobile home
I upgraded my mobile home’s water heating system to a tankless model. Living in a smaller space, I wanted efficiency and endless hot water. My old tank heater was constantly running and inefficient. This change promised a significant improvement to my comfort and energy bills. I researched extensively before making the leap, carefully considering the size and features that would best suit my needs.
Choosing the Right Size⁚ My Research and Calculations
Choosing the right size tankless water heater felt like navigating a minefield! I spent hours poring over online resources and manufacturer specifications. My mobile home, a cozy but compact 1970s model, presented its own set of challenges. I knew I needed to calculate my hot water demands carefully. I started by listing every fixture that used hot water⁚ the shower, kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and laundry hookup. I then estimated the flow rate for each, using online calculators and manufacturer guides as references. For example, I found that a standard showerhead has a flow rate of around 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). I added up all these figures to get a total GPM for my household. This calculation was crucial because tankless heaters are rated in GPM, indicating how much hot water they can deliver at a given temperature rise. I also considered the number of people in my household (just me and my cat, Mittens!), the frequency of hot water usage, and my desired temperature rise. I wanted a comfortable, consistent hot water flow without any noticeable temperature fluctuations, even during peak usage times (like my morning showers!). After crunching the numbers, I decided on a model that slightly exceeded my calculated GPM needs, providing a safety margin for unexpected surges in demand. It was a bit more expensive than smaller models but I figured the peace of mind was worth it. Ultimately, I felt confident that my calculations provided a solid foundation for my decision, ensuring that I wouldn’t end up with a unit that was either too small or unnecessarily oversized for my needs.
Installation⁚ A DIY Adventure (Mostly!)
Installation day arrived, and I tackled the project with a mix of excitement and apprehension. I’m reasonably handy, but plumbing isn’t my forte. The unit itself was surprisingly compact, which was a relief given my mobile home’s limited space. I carefully followed the manufacturer’s instructions, starting with shutting off the main water supply. The initial steps – disconnecting the old tank heater and preparing the new unit’s mounting location – went smoothly. I managed to handle the gas line connections myself, double-checking all fittings for leaks. However, I quickly realized I was in over my head when it came to the venting. The instructions were detailed, but the actual process felt more complex than anticipated, especially navigating the existing venting system in my mobile home. I decided to call in a professional plumber for this critical step. He arrived promptly, quickly assessed the situation and completed the venting connection efficiently, ensuring proper gas flow and ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. It was a wise decision; the venting is crucial for safety and I didn’t want to risk any mistakes. After the plumber left, I reconnected the water lines, carefully checking for leaks. Finally, I turned on the gas and fired up the new unit. The initial test run was exhilarating – hot water, on demand! While I handled most of the installation myself, I learned that knowing my limits and seeking professional help when necessary is a key ingredient for a successful DIY project.
First Impressions⁚ Hot Water on Demand!
My first shower with the new tankless water heater was a revelation! No more waiting for the water to heat up – it was instant, consistently hot, and the pressure was perfect. I’d previously endured lukewarm showers, especially during peak usage times when my old tank heater struggled to keep up. This was a dramatic improvement. The initial feeling of luxury was undeniable. I tested the hot water in the kitchen sink and the bathroom simultaneously – both delivered hot water without any noticeable drop in temperature or pressure. My partner, Amelia, was equally impressed. She usually takes long, hot baths, and she raved about the consistent temperature throughout her entire bath. We even had guests over that weekend, and everyone commented on the seemingly endless supply of hot water. The small size of the unit was a non-issue; its performance far exceeded its physical footprint. Initially, I was concerned about the unit’s capacity, especially considering we both have long showers and regularly do laundry. However, my fears were unfounded. Even with multiple hot water demands, the tankless heater provided consistently hot water without any noticeable delay or fluctuation in temperature. It was a truly transformative upgrade, exceeding my expectations in terms of performance and convenience.
Long-Term Performance⁚ Worth the Investment?
Six months later, and I’m still thrilled with my tankless water heater. The initial luxury hasn’t faded; the consistent hot water remains a daily pleasure. My energy bills have also shown a noticeable decrease, a significant factor in my decision to upgrade. I meticulously tracked my energy usage before and after the installation, and the savings are substantial, justifying the initial investment. There haven’t been any maintenance issues; the unit runs smoothly and quietly. I did have a minor scare when the pilot light flickered once, but a quick online search provided a simple solution, and I resolved the issue myself. Amelia and I have noticed no reduction in hot water performance, even during periods of heavy use, like hosting family gatherings. The consistent temperature and pressure are maintained regardless of the number of simultaneous hot water demands. Considering the long-term benefits – consistent hot water, lower energy bills, and minimal maintenance – I wholeheartedly believe this was a worthwhile investment. It’s improved our quality of life significantly, and I’d recommend a tankless system to anyone considering an upgrade, especially in a smaller space like a mobile home.