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Can I install power vent on any water heater?
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 much does it cost to install a power vent water heater?
Power Vent Water Heater Installation Cost An installed power vent water heater averages $1,050 to $5,000. They have more moving parts and require electricity to vent. Even if you use gas to heat your water, your unit requires electricity to work.
How far can I vent a power vent water heater?
The maximum equivalent vent length for the exhaust is 60 feet for 3” diameter pipe and 100 feet for 4” diameter pipe. The intake portion of the vent must be equal to or less than the vent length of the exhaust.
Is a power vent water heater worth it?
Power vent water heaters are more energy efficient, so they require less gas to operate. The lower energy consumption will save you some money, but probably not more than $20 a year, making this an added benefit, but not a deciding factor. A power vent water heater can be a good option for this situation.
Why have a power vent water heater?
Venting systems are necessary to prevent flue gases from accumulating in your water heater. These gases largely consist of water vapor and carbon dioxide. The vapor becomes acidic and needs to be released in order to relieve combustion pressure and prevent the water heater from exploding.
Does a power vent water heater need a dedicated circuit?
A gas water heater usually needs no electricity. Some have powered vents, the ones that do use less than 100 watts (less than one amp). So a dedicated circuit is not needed.
What is the proper way to vent a gas water heater?
The venting must be vertical or upward sloping so that the hot exhaust rises up through the venting to exit your home. Making sure that your home has a properly working vent system is imperative when installing a standard atmospheric vent with your water heater.
Can you vent a hot water heater with PVC?
PVC is fine. As Jason mentioned, plastic (PVC or ABS) is ok to use as a venting material on powervented hot water heaters. They work by sending a huge amount of air in with the flue gases that it decreases the temperature of the exhaust going through the vent enough that it will not comprimise the vent.
How much is Lowes water heater installation?
The basic water heater installation cost at Lowe’s is $325. Plus, an estimated fee of $40 is usually added on top of this basic installation cost. Typically, additional piping will be required to complete the installation, so allocate some funds for this expense.
Can a hot water heater last 20 years?
Tank water heaters will last an average of 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last even longer, up to 20 years. There are also electric and gas water heaters that will vary in lifespan, but in general gas ones last 8-12 years, while an electric heater could last upwards of 10-15 years.
What is the life expectancy of a water heater?
Factors that affect the life expectancy of a water heater: While many say 8 to 12 years is the expected life for a standard gas-powered water heater, this range can change and be very dependent on where you are located. The level of sediment in your tank affects the lifespan of your water heater.
How many elbows can a water heater vent have?
With the appliances used today, the use of an excessive number of elbows can cause condensation problems. Try to limit the installation to no more than two 90 offsets and to use offsets of no more than 45 wherever possible.
Can a direct-vent water heater be vented horizontally?
Compared to atmospheric, direct-vent water heaters offer more installation flexibility because they can vent horizontally. They also operate more quietly than their power-venting counterparts.
Can you vent water heater and furnace together?
Vent connectors serving equipment vented by Natural draft (typical water heater) Shall Not Be Connected Into Any Portion of Mechanical-draft systems (80% and higher efficiency gas furnaces). This Means: With Any New Furnace Installation — A Gas Water Heater Must Then Be Separately Vented.
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.
How long should a power vent water heater 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.
Are tankless water heaters power vented?
Tankless water heaters can be vented in two ways: power-vent or direct-vent. Power-vent units use indoor air for combustion and simply vent the exhaust to the outside.
How many amps does a power vent water heater draw?
Most electric water heaters use 18.8 amps with 240 volts and a 4,500 watt heating element. A gas water heater uses less amps—about 12 Amps with 115 volts. The average residential container heater has a 40-gallon tank and usually requires a 30-amp breaker.
