Alright, so here’s the deal. I’ve got this indirect hot water storage tank in my house on Long Island, and it’s currently being heated by my gas boiler. But man, my gas bills are through the roof! I’m thinking it’s time to make a change and save some cash. I’ve been diving deep into threads on Reddit comparing tank water heaters to tankless ones, trying to figure out which option is more efficient for me.
From what I’ve gathered, a gas tank water heater needs about 40 gallons of water to be constantly heated by a 36,000 BTU burner. On the other hand, a tankless water heater operates on-demand using a 160,000 BTU burner. But here’s the kicker – it takes longer for the hot water to actually reach the faucet or shower with a tankless system. So, I’m left wondering, does the tankless heater really use less gas in the real world?
Then there’s the issue of the flue pipe. With a tank gas water heater, I could just tap into the flue of my main boiler. But if I opt for a tankless heater, I’d have to install a separate flue that goes directly out the side of my house. It’s a whole extra step to consider.
So, the big question is: in my situation, should I go with a tankless gas water heater or stick with a tank gas water heater? I’m weighing the pros and cons, trying to figure out which option will help me cut down on my gas usage and save some money in the long run. It’s a tough call, but I’m determined to make the right choice for my home and my wallet.