New Hot Water Heater Regulations April 16, 2015

[David Krulac]

New Water Heater Guidelines

National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA) -

On April 16th, 2015 the NAECA will require all manufacturers to make new water heaters to comply with the new standards. The change is not a big deal because this requirement has been coming for some time and manufacturers are already making water heaters to comply with the new standards. Due to energy requirements, water heaters 55 gallons and under will grow in size due to increased insulation and will need approximately 3 more inches side to side and 3 inches taller install height. The concern is replacing water heaters in tight locations, the openings may not be big enough to install a new water heater. Other options are to install a smaller capacity water heater. Or, install the water heater in a new location. Standard water heaters can be sold and installed after April 16th, 2015, but only as supplies last.

[Martin Scherer]

Tankless will not be less expensive.  You still need space, ventilation and a very expensive stainless triple wall vent pipe.  The last one I installed the vent pipe alone was more than twice the cost of a new standard hot water heater.  They also require significant maintenance if you follow directions.

Unless you install a very high end unit (hint HD doesn't sell them) your tenants will be very unhappy.  You need at least 8-10 gallons per minute capacity for a family.  If it is for a single person even a cheap one will work .