Is a tankless water heater good for a family of 4?

Author: Berniece Rau  |  Last update: Monday, May 5, 2025

For a family of four, you will likely need a tankless water heater capable of producing hot water for two to three bathrooms simultaneously. Factor in the temperature rise needed for your desired hot water temperature. Typically, a temperature rise of 70°F is required to achieve a 120°F hot water temperature.

How big of a tankless water heater do I need for a family of four?

Small households of two people need a tankless heater with a flow rate of 6 to 8 GPM, while a larger household of four people requires a flow rate of about 8 to 10 GPM. Remember to factor in temperature rise when deciding how big of a tankless water heater you need for your household.

What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

Before you commit to buying a tankless water heater, the primary drawbacks to know include: Higher upfront costs. Tankless water heaters are, on average, quite a bit more expensive to buy and install than tank water heaters. Access to fuel.

Can I replace my 40 gallon water heater with a tankless water heater?

You can go with a small tank and a small tankless water heater at the same time. You install this as a single device (1.5 gal per minute) tankless water heater with the output going to the tank and the tank feeding your household. If you need a lot of hot water quickly both water heaters run at the same time.

What size water heater is best for a family of 4?

A small (50- to 60-gallon) storage tank is usually sufficient for one to two three people. A medium (80-gallon) storage tank works well for three to four people. A large tank is appropriate for four to six people.

Can a Tankless Water Heater Support a Large Family?

What is the average cost to put in a tankless water heater?

The typical range for tankless heater installation is between $5,400 and $7,400 averaging out to around $6,400 (including the water heater, warranty and tune ups). The tankless installation without the unit can cost between $1800 and $3500, averaging out to around $2650. One of the big variables is labor rates.

Should I get a tank or tankless water heater?

If your bank account can manage the higher initial cost of a tankless water heater, you'll save more money over time by choosing tankless. But, if you are on a fixed modest income, a storage tank water heater might make more sense for you. Discuss the two types of water heaters with your plumber to weigh your options.

Why don't more people use tankless water heaters?

Some people hesitate to decide on a tankless water heater because they can be a slightly higher cost; however, you get significantly more life out of one. A standard water heater tank lasts about 8-12 years. A tankless water heater can last as long as 25 years!

Is there an IRS tax credit for a tankless water heater?

The federal tax credit for tankless water heaters in 2024 is an excellent opportunity for homeowners to save money while investing in energy-efficient water heating solutions. This tax credit is effective from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2032.

Is it worth converting to a tankless water heater?

Even for homes with high water usage, up to 85 gallons per day, tankless water heaters can offer up to 14% energy efficiency savings. However, while they offer energy savings, the higher upfront costs and installation expenses can result in a long payback period, ranging from 12 to 27 years.

When not to get a tankless water heater?

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

They're less expensive than gas-powered ones but aren't efficient if you run multiple hot water devices. They may struggle to keep up with multiple appliances at the same time.

Can you take a long hot shower with a tankless water heater?

While a tankless water heater will deliver an unlimited stream of hot water, they struggle to deliver a lot of hot water at one time. So while you might be able to take 100 showers in a row if you have the dishwasher, washing machine, and shower going at the same time you might have problems.

Do tankless water heaters increase water bill?

Because tankless water heaters only consume energy when you need hot water, they're more energy efficient, saving you money on water and energy bills.

How many GPM do I need for a family of four?

But on average, different family sizes require the following sizes of tankless water heaters: Family of 2 — 6-8 GPM. Family of 3 — 7-9 GPM. Family of 4 — 8-10 GPM.

Can you replace a 50 gallon water heater with a tankless water heater?

A 50-gallon water heater should be replaced with a tankless system with a 10 GPM flow rate just to be safe. Selecting the right flow rate ensures you won't experience cold showers or excessive energy costs. Proper sizing optimizes performance, providing hot water on demand without unnecessary waste.

How many people can shower with a tankless water heater?

Two people can shower at the same time with a tankless water heater, but it depends on the unit's flow rate and the hot water demand of both showers. Tankless water heaters are rated by their maximum flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) and their ability to heat incoming water to the desired temperature.

What is the best tankless water heater?

7 Best Tankless Water Heaters for Large Homes in 2025
  • Best Overall: Rinnai RU199iN.
  • Best Premium: Navien NPE-240A.
  • Best Gas Option: Rheem RTGH-95DVLN.
  • Best Electric: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36.
  • Best Value: EcoSmart ECO 36.
  • Best Compact: Takagi T-H3-DV-N.
  • Best Warranty: Noritz NR981-DVC-NG.

Can I write off a water heater on my taxes?

Water Heater Tax Credit Details.

You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to a $2,000 maximum credit. Heat pump water heaters that have earned the ENERGY STAR are eligible for this credit. You can find a list of ENERGY STAR certified models here.

What is the downfall to a tankless water heater?

A tankless water heater cannot provide hot water faster than its ability to heat the water. While a tank unit can provide hot water for multiple uses at once, a tankless unit might not be able to support simultaneous usage, such as washing dishes, taking a shower and running a washing machine all at once.

Should I replace my water heater with a tankless?

Tankless water heaters are more efficient and don't experience standby heat loss. This can be especially cost effective if you travel a lot. Some tankless water heater units come with a federal tax rebate. You can get up to $300 off installation!

What's the best hot water heater to buy?

5 Water Heaters You Can Count on, According to Testing
  • Best Overall. A.O. Smith Signature 900 Smart Electric Water Heater With Hybrid Heat Pump. Read more.
  • Best Value. Rheem 50 Gallon Natural Gas Water Heater. Read more.
  • Best Tankless. A.O. Smith Signature Series Tankless Water Heater with Scale Prevention. Read more.

Why avoid a tankless water heater?

Additional Installation Costs

Tankless water heaters are much more complex than traditional hot water tanks. As a result, they require professional installation. If you're switching from a hot water tank to a tankless unit, you will likely need your gas lines rerouted, as well as a larger gas supply line.

Do plumbers recommend tankless water heaters?

Tankless Water Heaters: Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters, heat water directly without the need for a storage tank. Plumbers recommend tankless water heaters for their energy efficiency, space-saving design, and endless hot water supply.

Does Lowes install water heaters?

Lowe's Water Heater Installation

Let us replace and install your new water heater. Our Independent Service PROviders can help you with both tankless and traditional water heater tanks, including gas water heaters, electric water heaters and tankless gas water heaters.

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