When it comes to upgrading to a tankless gas water heater, one of the most critical decisions is choosing the right size for your household’s hot water demand. CB Smith Plumbing recently completed a sizing and installation project in Greer, SC for a growing family that had been struggling with inconsistent hot water and rising energy bills. They reached out to us for help selecting an efficient and properly sized solution.
Tankless units offer several advantages over traditional tank systems—endless hot water, compact design, and energy savings—but only if sized correctly. Our plumbing experts walked the homeowner through the selection process to ensure their new system would meet peak demand without waste or shortfall. For those considering other water heaters, we offer a range of tank and tankless options to fit every budget and home size.
The Sizing Process
To find the right tankless gas water heater size, we followed a proven process:
1. Calculating Peak Demand
We began by determining the household’s peak hot water usage. This involved reviewing how many fixtures they used simultaneously—such as showers, laundry, and sinks—and the flow rate of each. For this family of five, peak demand reached 8 gallons per minute (GPM) during busy mornings.
2. Evaluating Temperature Rise
The incoming groundwater temperature in Greer typically hovers around 55°F. The homeowners wanted their hot water to reach 120°F, requiring a 65°F temperature rise. This factor helped narrow down the model options based on their heating capacity.
3. Selecting the Unit
Based on flow rate and temperature rise, we recommended a high-efficiency tankless gas model rated for 9.5 GPM. This ensured the household would have reliable hot water during peak hours without compromising performance or energy use.
Installation and Results
Our licensed technicians handled the full installation, including:
- Upgrading the gas supply line for proper fuel delivery
- Mounting the unit in a space-saving position on the exterior wall
- Connecting water lines with insulated piping
- Installing a condensate drain and proper venting
- Running performance tests to confirm heating efficiency and water pressure
The new unit not only resolved the hot water shortage but also provided significant energy savings and freed up space in their utility room.
Why CB Smith Plumbing?
At CB Smith Plumbing, we help homeowners make confident, informed decisions when it comes to water heating systems. Whether it’s sizing a tankless gas water heater, repairing old lines, or upgrading water heaters, we deliver expert solutions with care, clarity, and professionalism.
Thinking about going tankless? Contact CB Smith Plumbing for a free consultation and discover the ideal setup for your home.
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