Solar Tankless Water Heater

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Is a solar water heater the same as a tankless water heater?
   Are all tankless water heaters solar? Do the tankless water heaters or solar water heaters for the home really pay off?

   • ANSWER:
     two different animals

     a tank less water heater is gas or electric......it only turns on when you open a hot water tap somewhere in the system....it senses water flowing, turns on the heating element and then turns off when the water flow stops.That way you aren't keeping 25 or 40 gallons in the tank hot 24/7. 'Cause there isn't a tank. The whole unit is about the size of a large phone book or a small briefcase.

     We put 75 of them into the condo I run and peoples electric bill dropped about 25%.

     Generally the tank less heaters will raise the incoming water temperature about 25 to 40 degrees. They draw A LOT of current for the few minutes they are running.

     A solar water heater is a long run of copper pipes inside a frame, with a glass or plastic cover......it's about the size of, say, a large desk or a double bed and about 6 inches thick. You mount it somewhere that the sun can shine on it. Usually the roof but it could be at ground level. Water runs through the copper pipe and absorbs heat from the sun and then goes into the pipes in the house and to the taps.

     An ideal set up would have the solar heater preheating the water before it goes to the tankless heater...should drop your hot water bill 25-40%, because in the summer a solar heater makes water hot enough to not need the boost from the tankless.

2. QUESTION:
   can a solar water heater be hooked with a tankless water system?
   i am thinking about saving cost and energy. want to get a tankless water heater. i would like to have a solar water heater too, but heard that u need a stoage tank for the solar heater. not sure if i can combine the two. anyone got an answer for me?

   • ANSWER:
     you could have a 2 panel 80 gallon tank solar thermal system backed up by a tankless. but if you have a tankless, you dont need anything else, it wont work with solar panels, you must have a storage tank. if you have the money, do it. (roughly ,000) installed with a heating element in your air handler to pre heat your air in the winter. payback around 5 years pending tax credits. if thats to complicated, just do tankless, they are awesome. do both if you have the dough. your neighbors will be jealous.

3. QUESTION:
   Which is more energy efficent, tankless water heater or solar heating?
   i am having trouble deciding which is better. tankless water heaters are turned on only when i need hot water, but solar heating preheats the water with solar energy. I know there is no heat loss for the tankless and it saves more space.

   • ANSWER:
     They are both efficient. The problem with solar as mentioned is that they are subject to the availability of sunlight. I believe that ambient temperature has an effect on efficiency, that is, in the winter the water won't be as warm as in the summer.

     Tank-less is more reliable. But you have to get one that can heat the volume of water you expect to use.

     A solar + tank-less will be okay for long duration water use (like showers, laundry). It takes time for the warmed solar water to get to the point of use. If you're just washing your hands, you'll use the tank-less and none of the solar water. I don't believe any homes are plumbed for two water systems (solar and other).

     Using a circulating pump with a solar system may help its efficiency but it costs a few dollars a month to run.

     Check this site:
     http://www.tanklesswaterheaterguide.com/
     If I had the bucks, I would put tank-less systems at each fixture.

4. QUESTION:
   Hot water heater - tankless or solar?
   I need a new gas hot water heater & trying to decide on whether to get a tankless or solar hot water heater. Can't anyone give me some advice on which is better or a site that could compare the two?
   I do understand that solar runs on the sun & requires no electricity but, seriously, is one better than the other? Pro's & cons is what I'm looking for. I had a conventional 50 gal. gas water heater prior to it flooding my garage out.
   Currently there are 2 in the household but desire a system capable for 4-6 people.
   I am in Az. so the sun shines pretty much all the time during the day.

   • ANSWER:
     BOTH! They work great together!

     Solar water heating is a great way to provide up to 75% of your hot water. However, it can't provide 100%, you need backup. The ideal solution is to get a solar water heater to do most of the heating. Then run the "hot out" from the solar storage tank to the "cold in" off an on-demand water heater. If the water is hot enough, the on-demand doesn't turn on, it just passes it through, no energy used. If the water isn't hot enough, perhaps you had a stretch of bad weather, it will add any needed heat. But instead of heating water from the city at 50 degrees, it will be heating partially heated water, maybe 80 degrees. This requires less energy.

     Depending on where you are, and how many people in your household, the equipment can cost about 00 - 00. I don't know the cost for an on-demand heater.

     http://www.altestore.com/store/Solar-Water-Heaters/Climate-freezes-Closed-Loop-Systems/Closed-Loop-Systems-for-1-4-People/Closed-Loop-PV-Powered-w-Tank/AET-PV-w-80-Gal-Tank-64-SqFt-Collectors/p172/

5. QUESTION:
   Can you use solar water with a tankless water heater ?

   • ANSWER:
     Yes, you can.
     Allow the water to go through the heater first.

6. QUESTION:
   replacing old electric water heater with tankless? solar tubes? cheapest way?
   my husband loves his hot showers (i know not green kosher) i want the best for the environment and my pocket. With rebate till 2009 what is the best way to go? To gaurantee never to run cold.
   We are a family of 3 live in sydney> thanks

   • ANSWER:
     You can go from one extreme to the other here...initial instalation is going to be by far the cheapest with a straight replacement with a new more efficient tank..tankless units are not cheap to buy but are not hard to install their advantage is that you are only heating water as you need it and not loosing heat from a tank left unused for long periods.In your situation I don't think you would see much difference in operating costs....the other side of the coin is solar being higher instalation and purchase costs but once done your running cost are almost nil...I'd still install a small tank heater that can be turned on should you need it

7. QUESTION:
   Tankless water heater/ electric water heater?
   I wanted to know if it would be more cost effective to install a tankless water heater or electric water heater. I have well water that uses oil to heat a 40 gal tank, I also have radiators to heat up the hose in the winter. With oil prices going up year after year I'm looking for the best and more energy efficient way to cut my monthly expense. Would solar water heater be a good option? I live in norther New Jersey so everything is expensive.

   • ANSWER:
     We need more info on what you currently have but....

     Tankless oil vs electric
     electric will be way more cost effective to install. Its just two pipes, and an electrical wire to the panel.

     For a tankless oil heat you will need to modify your boiler if its even possible. More than likely its not possible which means you will need to change your boiler to have a tankless feature.

     if you're looking for Tankless propane. This is cheaper then going the oil route. You will need to buy a tankless heater and install the propane tank/piping.

8. QUESTION:
   does anyone out have a tankless water heater and how do you like it?
   im in the market for a new heater. i have elctric now, but originally it was run by solar. now the solar ran out and it runs on electri(this is what my brother told me) so i need a new one. i can get permits to have gas put in( run a line to the house) but its a pain in the neck to go through all that. so what do you think of the tankless water heaters? do you save money?

   • ANSWER:
     I have a Bosch exterior mount model on city water and it works great. Not only did I gain the space of my water heater closet in my house (can never have enough storage) but I see the savings in my gas bill. Depending on the size of house you have and number of people living there you may need two. They require 3/4" gas line too and my plumber said that if you have hard water you would want to run a inline filter before the unit.

9. QUESTION:
   Should I remove solar panels or get a solar hot water heater?
   I just found out that my homeowners insurance company wants to charge me 0 more per year because I have some old solar panels on my roof. They were put on by the previous owners a long time ago I think. They are for a solar water heater but they aren't connected to anything because I just have a regular water heater in my garage. They are ugly as hell and I would just as soon take them down as I'd rather have a tankless system eventually anyways. My insurance is already 50 per year for a 140K house (Florida) so its high enough as it is. It seems stupid to pay 0 a year for something I'm not even using. Who can I call to take them down or can I do it myself or are solar water heaters cheap enough now that I should consider one?

   • ANSWER:
     Why don't you do this first my friend: put an ad in the local paper for someone that wants solar heaters and have them help you, for a price maybe. You can get their help and, have them pay you for them. You'd better check with your insurance company first. They may require a roofer to replace anything for their own purpose. You know how insurance companies are?

10. QUESTION:
    How long would a tank of propane last in a tankless water heater?
    I am contemplating buying a tankless propane water heater to heat my above ground pool.
    I can get one from ebay for about 0.
    I was originally going to try and build a solar heater but I figure that will cost me somewhere around 0 to do that.
    I am trying to figure out which way is the better route to go.
    Obviously the solar one has no running costs which is the biggest difference.
    The question is which one will be more effective?
    I figure the tankless will be able to get the water to a higher temperature and has the added benefit of being able to heat the water even if it's night time.
    How long would a bbq sized tank of propane last if it was left running until it was out of gas?
    Which one would heat the temperature of the pool more?
    I've compiled a list of pros and cons, for each heating method. Some feedback and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

    Tankless Pros- will heat the water more so I'm imaging it will raise the pool temp more and can get heated water anytime, day or night.
    Tankless Cons- have to buy propane regularly

    Solar Pros- no cost to operate
    Soar Cons-no heat at night and will not raise temp as high

    • ANSWER:
      A 20lb cylinder will not operate a tankless water heater. It does not have enough vaporization capacity for that big of a burner. Especially since it will be running for extended periods of time.

      Gas fired pool heaters use a LOT of Fuel! You can easily use 100 gallons of propane in a day or two when you are first bringing the pool up to temperature.

      A tankless water heater is not designed to handle the chlorine and other chemicals you will be subjecting it to. You are much better off with the solar method. Just make sure you have valve shutoffs to stop the water from circulating at night, or you will actually cool the pool overnight.

11. QUESTION:
    I would like to add a solar water heater to my house, if you have one, are you happy with it?
    Our other option is tankless, we have used tankless before and were happy with it, but it seems like solar is more cost effective in the long run. We will likely be in this house for the next 30+ years.

    • ANSWER:
      I installed one about 15 years ago when I first got my business started. Two people on the block already had them. They all liked them. Tankless is newer technology, and is quite luxurious. Solar water heating is Green, but not very luxurious. If you like steaming hot showers, go with the tankless heater. If you want to save money, go with the solar heating. It's really easy to install. You have to have a good location on the roof where it can face south. You could even hook up the solar heating just to some hot water lines and keep the tankless on your shower line exclusively.

12. QUESTION:
    How come new homes aren't built with solar panels?
    With all this "Go Green!" nonsense going on, you would think we would be graduating to better construction habits. Tankless water heaters, solar panels on roofs, compost heap areas in yards, WiFi- Broadband ready homes,etc.

    • ANSWER:
      You'd think, wouldn't you? But such things would so increase the price of new construction as to be prohibitive.

      Change is slow, until necessity rears its head. I daresay, necessity is not long in coming.

13. QUESTION:
    Electric tankless hot water heater ?
    We are in the process of building a new home and it is time to pick out the hot water heaters. There is so much information out there and I need some help choosing the right one! Here are some details...

    We live on Gulf Coast in MS (so it's warm almost all year)

    master bedroom - 2 sinks, 125 gal whirlpool tub, separate shower
    2 other bathrooms with tub and shower, 1 double sink, 1 single sink
    1 additional bathroom with double sink, stand up shower only
    Kitchen - sink, dishwasher (cant think of anything else that would need hotwater ??)
    Laundry roomm - Washing Machine (a larger one - we are a family of 6)

    We do not want gas at all in the house so it must be electric, but I was wondering how the solar/electric tankless units work too, and with all of the bathrooms and appliances using so much hot water how many units would we need to purchase.

    Thanks so much! I cant wait to get some insight! This is a very important decision that must be made soon!
    note: my husband is dead set against gas. He does not want a gas tank buried underground in our backyard and if truly afraid the house could blow up if we have gas. (his ex wife's house burned down 5 years ago and his son died in the fire, our house burned down 15 months ago. This was due to an electrical storm, but really there is no changing his mind. I agree with you though. ughhh)

    • ANSWER:
      You don't need to use gas for heating water! Note that most dishwashers and washing machines have only a cold water inlet and they heat the water by themselves.

      If the climate is sunny (as it is here in Israel) a solar heater works well for most of the year except for the 4 winter months. It is a passive unit without pumps but is a bit ugly and is on the roof. Different sizes and numbers of solar collectors and insulated tanks are available and for a family of 5 who are modest in their showering needs I suggest the tank should be of 180 liter size and two solar panels of about 3 x 6 foot each are necessary. They must face approximately south!

      I am not sure what you mean by a tankless solar heater. Here there is no such animal!

      Our solar tank also contains an electrical immersion heater for use in the winter, which I regard as wasteful because it takes a while to heat up or it looses heat when running continuously. Instead we have in the two bathrooms an "instant" electrical device also manufactured here, but available in the US. Its performance is not fantastic when the incoming water is very cold, but if you run the water slowly it is effective. Be very carefull about installing this powerful electrical device in the bathroom so that condensation cannot allow water to collect inside or on the internal connections etc. When in use always TURN OFF THE WATER BEFORE CHANGING THE HEATING RATE, or you will blow a fuse. There are at least two models to choose from and it should be planned before the house piping is put in so that it can be used to heat all the bathroom water and not just the shower water (for this an ïn-line"model is needed). For shower water alone, the older kind is suitable. The same applies to the kitchen.

14. QUESTION:
    Can tankless hot water heaters be installed in a new manufactured home?
    Just wondering if we can do away with the regular hot water heater if/when we order a new manufactured home. Also looking to install some solar shingles.

    • ANSWER:
      Most manufactured home companies will build anything you are ready to pay for. They have their standard models but they can do custom work. the water heater won't be an issue. Solar shingles might be because of the home manufacturers warranty.

15. QUESTION:
    Which is more effecient and more successful? A Tank-less Waterheater of a solar-powered waterheater?
    I'm trying to be more energy-efficient in My home, (at least as the water heater goes. And I'm also trying to figure out which water heater system is the best "green" way to go, the tankless or the solar powered water heater? Anybody know about either one or both? Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      My folks have a tankless water heater, and they love it. It is electric, and doesn't use any power until the hot water faucet is turned on. Then, it only runs to heat water going through the pipe. As soon as you turn off the faucet, you turn off the heater. It's instant heat, and unlimited heat. Here is the website that they bought from. Others have used it and love it as well. Very efficient to use, and not much money to set up. Solar water heaters would work great, but they are expensive to set up. It takes a long time to make your money back with those.

16. QUESTION:
    Water pump PSI - Swimming Pool Heater?
    OK, here's the deal ( I know it is hokey...) - I have an Above Ground Swimming Pool @ 5500 gallons. I just got an ECCOtemp L-10 Liter Outdoor Tankless Propane Water Heater. - It is supposed to be used for taking showers, etc. I want to use it to help heat my pool. I want to put an electric water pump on the pool to recirculate the water back up to the ECCO. The ECCO needs water pressure of 30-50 PSI to open the ignition circuit for operation. There are alot of types of water pumps to choose from, but they do not list the PSI , just the GPH. I am looking at 1" Clear Water pumps from Harbour Freight - - , 1/2 HP but I don't know if it will generate the PSI. Submersible pump would be easy also, but not sure if they have the PSI I need. I KNOW that the pool chemicals will affect the ECCO. I want a way to heat my pool in the cooler months, and in the evening - not 24/7. Cost is important. I live in Florida and don't want to pursue the solar angle on this brainstorm. The pool heats quite nicely on its own, but the above ground really saps the heat from it. I do have the pool somewhat insulated. Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Hello,

      You can force the water to a higher pressure by putting a two way valve after the heat unit. By throttling down the flow, you can increase the back pressure.

      The idea of heating your pool for the night is not very cost effective. Calculate the time needed to raise the temp a few degrees, even if you ignore all the loses, especially on an above ground pool. How many BTU's is this unit? Is there a minimum flow rate for the hot water? If it was designed for showers, the flow rate will not be much.

      I did something similar for a custom builder once, but it was all to company specs.

      When you heat a pool, you are only allowed to raise the temperature of the incoming water by two degrees over the outgoing water. Why? Safety! You are going to burn the hell out of someone. These things are not approved to use on swimming pools. Be careful!

      Keep a cover on the pool when not in use to conserve the heat of course.

      Good Luck

17. QUESTION:
    Can we get builders to build homes that don't need much energy?
    I envision a future where homes are built with whichever sustainable energy option is right for it's particular area. We all know that going green with solar, wind, geothermal, sub-radient floors, tankless water heaters, solar water heaters, micro hydro, or whatever method is high dollar to ADD to a home. How about if the home came with a solar roof. You never had to pay for the conventional roof, or it's removal/alteration? The same goes for all the other energy items I mentioned. Not all are right for every area, but builders could determine which were right for an area, and build homes with these things in them. Wouldn't this drastically reduce the cost of any re-fit, or add-ons? Having subradient floors be the original floor installed would seriously reduce costs. Having a tankless water be installed vs. a conventional in the first place. Is anyone building homes which require little to no energy from electric & gas companies? Without seriously overinflating the cost?

    • ANSWER:
      Here's an example for a warm climate: http://www.livinghomes.net/primer.html

      Try Google for "green architecture" "green building" "sustainable architecture" and "alternative architecture". For prefab projects, try fabprefab.com. Consider green roofs, also.

      Try architecture.com.

      Look up "small houses".

      Just because contractors won't do it, doesn't mean you can't. Look up "natural building" to see how people are using their own hands and ancient techniques to minimize impact and energy expenditure, increase quality of life, reduce building costs by orders of magnitude, and generally deal with the issue directly.

      So glad you asked.

18. QUESTION:
    What are the most eco-friendly methods of heating water in a house?
    Our water heater is looking very sad and yesterday our neighbors burst. I took it as a sign.

    My husband wants to get a tankless water heating system.
    I'm wondering which methods are most eco-friendly, energy saving, etc.

    I don't think we can afford solar panels.
    I should have mentioned that I live in South Florida so if I can harness the sun's energy in a way I can afford (upfront) then I'm in the perfect location to do it.

    • ANSWER:
      there are 2 types of solar panels, photovoltaic - that create electricity to use for any purpose (like heating water) and solar thermal - used for collecting heat which is typically used to heat your home, your hot water, or even your pool. The former are typically expensive, the latter can vary a lot in price depending on technology. I wouldn't dismiss solar thermal collection before exploring it. It is likely more expensive, and certainly more complicated than a standard (and probably tankless) hot water heater too, but remember the difference is paying for the higher cost up front, then getting essentially free energy for years. The cost of energy will likely keep rising over time too, so saving 50% now might cost you a whole lot more over the lifespan of the product you buy.

      Depending on your location, a geothermal heat pump system can be much more efficient for heating and cooling your whole house, as well as heating water. Its not worth it for just hot water, but if you are looking at larger solutions these systems get rave reviews. Cost is high, but again you are paying up front and saving in the long run.

19. QUESTION:
    Which equine wash do you prefer?
    When we built my ranch back in 2002, we put in a hotwater heater and built in shampoo solutions machine into our main wash racks. We've been using Mane N' Tale...the concentrated formula you buy by the gallon, but because of the increase of our flashier paints with more white the mane n tale isn't cutting it...even when left to soak for 10 minutes.

    So we just upgraded our ranch to the "GREEN" way of life, you know, tankless water heaters, solar panels, LED lights, biofuel generators and figured we'd switch wash's while we're at it.

    What wash do you use and would you recommend it.

    BTW...I'm squashed for time, with over 60 horses right now. I love cowboy magic, but they haven't made the gallon jugs yet and we do use EQ Solutions on our trucks and trailers, but have never tried the wash for equines. White N' Bright and White Knight work, but still not in the gallon jugs.

    I would also be willing to purchase the 50 gallon drums.
    EDIT- I can only use vinegar on a few horses. Most of them either have allergic reactions or it dry's them out.

    The way I mix the mane' n' tale is because the system is run like a self wash car wash machine. I have a 50 gallon drum full of wash and it automatically disperts in the water system.

    I use to buy 50 gallon drums of ASPIRE, but that was back in the early 70's and it was a pain to pump out. Unfortunately they company who made it shut down and no one else makes it.

    • ANSWER:
      I also show paints and have used the EZ All wash system. It was an OK thing, but a lot seemed to get wasted. I have also tried just about every other product on the market and have always come back the the Orvis shampoo also. A little goes a long way, and it cleans wonderfully. I personally prefer the Suave conditioner for the manes and tails and if I need to do any whitening, I use the Roux Ultra White Minx rinse. This is a temp hair rinse that really makes the white pop.

20. QUESTION:
    Does it make sense to put solar panels on my house?
    I live in the Twin Cities (Minnesota) I am going to build a home, and I am thinking of going green, I probably won't do some of the "green things" like using all recycled materials, or even bamboo flooring, but more so, radiant floor heating, all Energy Star appliances (even getting an LED TV), Tankless water heater, french drain water collection (for water the lawn) LED lights, spray foam insulation etc. Does it make sense to get solar panels? I know that building rather thatn buying saves me 25%, but going full on green costs about 40% more.

    My ultimate goal it to have a home that is comfortable, cool in the summer, warm in the winter, not a lot of energy loss, and especially low utility costs. I know solar cells are expensive, and I going to build a 3000-4000 sq ft house... what do you think?

    • ANSWER:
      Michael, since you're designing the house, you should take advantage of passive solar building techniques - south facing windows, earth sheltering, a lot of interior thermal mass, etc. Check into using insulated concrete forms for the walls. Next, consider where dollars are most effectively spent for active energy recovery. Rather than gathering sunlight and converting it to electricity, convert it to heat and store it in a hot water tank - which provides both household heat and domestic hot water. How to air condition a house with hydronic heat? Look further into earth sheltered construction, and plan landscaping to provide some shade. You may find your AC needs are minimal or non existent. Do this correctly, and you'll save tons of $$ in utility bills while the rest of the nation is up in arms about rising energy prices. You should be able to name that tune for about 20 - 25% above normal construction costs. Good luck!

21. QUESTION:
    I want to go solar... all electric or keep gas?
    Im considering a few things and would appreciate any input. I would like to start installing solar panels over the next few years as well as a homemade VAWT windmill (not too big) and black tubing to heat up water before it gets to my water tank.

    1 - Install a tankless water heater. Do I go gas or electric?
    2 - Install electric clothes dryer instead of gas?
    3 - electric stove instead of gas?

    My thinking is to go all electric and get rid of my gas bill entirely and try to generate enough electricity on my own to power all the electric appliances.

    Just not sure what direction to take! I dont use much electricity (/mo) and my gas bill is in the summer and up to in the winter from cooking and heating. Ahhhh. I forgot about heating. It doesnt get too cold where I am, but I would still need heating. I would think gas is still cheaper then electricity for heating.

    Any tips or ideas out there? Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      I can see advantages to both options. It all depends on your intentions for going solar. Is your motivation environmental, independent living, or emergency preparedness? Do you intend to keep your utility connection and supplement it as much as possible with solar, or do you wish to be utility independent? If you keep the utility connection, then go all electric, and buy some Eden-Pure heaters for your heating needs. You will feed the grid all summer long, build up a big credit, and use the excess to run the heaters in the winter. If Independence is your goal, gas makes a good back-up plan in the event your solar does not generate a sufficient amount of power. When you say "gas" are you talking kerosene, LPG (propane) or natural gas? If you want to prepared for all emergencies, and LPG is available in your area, use it. Buy a tank big enough for a year's supply.

      Be careful of tankless water heaters--gas or electric. Many do not support preheated water conditions, and will cause problems on a solar water heated system. Your bills are quite low, you are likely very energy conscious already. Solar will be a great fit for you regardless of which way you go.

22. QUESTION:
    Can i built an attached utility room for the home equiptment:?
    I want to move this equiptment out of my yard, house and garage. I want to build an attached utility room with access from my garage. The reasons are self explainitory. I want to know if there are any issues doing this; like Having them together, code issues, temp, ect. Please let me know if you see issues with this. if anyone has pics or information on existing room please let me know. Thank you for your help!

    Air conditiner
    Furnace
    Air Compressor
    Pool Equiptment
    Central Vacuum
    Tankless water heaters
    (Maybe) solar power equiptment

    • ANSWER:
      air conditioner has to be outside, it would be a lot of trouble and money to move your water heaters and central vacuum, I would just get a tool shed and use it to put your pool stuff in

23. QUESTION:
    What kind of water heater would you put in?
    I have a hot water maker which is heated by the furnace (boiler) it is powered by propane. This heater is costing me a fortune for hot water during the summer. I have to heat the boiler to get hot water and then the thing is hot and heats up the area it is in. To put in an electric hot water heater would cost a lot due to the fact I would have a ton of electrical work to do.
    I think a tankless would suck because of the hardness of the water also my wife like her water hot. . A propane tank type seems the best option.
    Solar is not an option due to the amount of sun we get any ideas?

    • ANSWER:
      You have answered your own question. Please buy an energy efficient one to save our environment. If you have cold well water you may want to install a temper tank. A temper tank is just a tank to let the water stand and warm to room temperature before going in the water heater. It may save only a few pounds of gas a year but a pound of gas saved is one you never have to pay for. It will also be better for thee environment.

24. QUESTION:
    What Water Pump should I buy?
    OK, here's the deal ( I know it is hokey...) - I have an Above Ground Swimming Pool @ 5500 gallons. I just got an ECCOtemp L-10 Liter Outdoor Tankless Propane Water Heater. - It is supposed to be used for taking showers, etc. I want to use it to help heat my pool. I want to put an electric water pump on the pool to recirculate the water back up to the ECCO. The ECCO needs water pressure of 30-50 PSI to open the ignition circuit for operation. There are alot of types of water pumps to choose from, but they do not list the PSI , just the GPH. I am looking at 1" Clear Water pumps from Harbour Freight - - , 1/2 HP but I don't know if it will generate the PSI. Submersible pump would be easy also, but not sure if they have the PSI I need. I KNOW that the pool chemicals will affect the ECCO. I want a way to heat my pool in the cooler months, and in the evening - not 24/7. Cost is important. I live in Florida and don't want to pursue the solar angle on this brainstorm. The pool heats quite nicely on its own, but the above ground really saps the heat from it. I do have the pool somewhat insulated. Thanks!
    What do you mean by a "shower pump"?
    I have never heard of one. Please be specific, Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Your heating unit is hopelessly undersized for this to matter. For the pumps, go to a better store and get a pump that is rated for the average shower, about a gallon a minute, at 50 psi.

25. QUESTION:
    Easy points please help!!!?????
    I am building a house that is environmentally friendly and it has to have 20 green/environmentally friendly things

    examples are:
    1)flourescent lights
    2) solar panels
    3) a fan
    4) curtains
    5) double paned windows
    6) rain catcher
    7) trees
    wind turbine
    9) insulation
    10) drying clothes outside instead of using dryer
    11) astroturf
    12)tankless water heater
    13) radiant barrier
    14) low flush toliets/low flow faucets
    15)
    16)
    17)
    18)
    19)
    20)
    we just need 5 more things.
    alright we can work with air tight entrance door

    so we have 15 need 5 more
    well appliances and stuff we dont really want, we want more of like...something we can make..like solar panels (alum foil) turbine (pinwheel)...um...flourescent lights (we can make)

    stuff like that..

    • ANSWER:
      1)flourescent lights
      2) solar panels
      3) a fan
      4) curtains
      5) double paned windows
      6) rain catcher
      7) trees
      wind turbine
      9) insulation
      10) drying clothes outside instead of using dryer
      11) astroturf
      12)tankless water heater
      13) radiant barrier
      14) low flush toliets/low flow faucets
      ---------
      15) Heat recovery in/out air fresh air distributio/air extraction system
      16) Solar water heating
      17) Phase change material (PCM) drywall to store latent heat
      18) Automatization for windows blinds
      19) Air-tight entrance door
      20) South-side orientade largest windows surface (for houses in cold climates)

26. QUESTION:
    Home upgrades yes or no?
    Hi. I've just bought my first home about 3 months ago. I'm 21 and bought it as a "investment" home and plan to sale it in about 3-5yrs...hopefully. I purchased it for 0,000 as a banked owned home..very lucky... It's 1250sqft 3bed, 2bath and on the gulf with a bay view here in Navarre, FL (Destin, FL Area) . I completely remodeled the house inside and out, Wood/Carpet/Tile Floors, Stainless Steal Appliances, Custom Cabinets, Granite Counters (all), tub/showers. Lights, Paint and so far I only spent about ,000-,000 on the remodeled got everything at wholesale and installed mostly everything myself. Also have (10) 200w Solar Panels on the roof which were gave to me as a gift. Power bill has been on average .00 a month + I have a private well so my water bill is mainly my electric bill. I just discovered that I'm going to have to replace my Hot Water Heater so my question is should I spend the 00.00 that I was quoted for the Tankless Heater? are just replace it with another conventional tank for 0? and save the money? If I go with the tankless should I see a return are extra value on my house?
    Yes I know this area is highly populated with military . I plan to sale not rent I don't really want to do the landlord thing or let a company handle that for me. Rather Sale and cash out. Renting the house and buying another would require me to keep both homes maintained and that could be alot of work.

    • ANSWER:
      YES. >.