Direct Vent Water Heaters

[MasterPlumbers]

I have a need for a new Water Heater. Have an electric now and would like to change to a direct vent LP gas water heater. Need some info.as to what type to buy and what the maximum length is for the vent pipe. I have to go about 15 ft. to vent to the outside. Is this acceptable?

[hj]

You do not have a large selection to choose from. The maximum length is determined by the blower in the water heater, so you have to check the specifications. The length is one item, but the number of turns permitted, (or necessary), is also a major factor in the allowable length.

[SylvanLMP]

If you check with Bradford white corporation you can gets several models that you can have lenths in way excess of 15 feet. some times just by increasing the diaof the vent piping only 2 commerical diameters you can MORE than double your horiziontal lenth. For example a model M-I-TW by increasing the vent from 2″ to 3″ you can vent verticaly away 20 feet versus 85 feet BUT the amount of 90 degree fitings is limited BUT
You maybe able to use 45 degree fittings to to give less resistence to the flue gases Check the local code and AGA requirements

Are you aware that there are residential OUT DOOR gas heaters that also use LP gas? The great thing about these out door heaters is venting is not a problem AND yuor existing electric heater can now serve as a storage tank to give you much more peak demand volume. Again check with your local code authorities and have a Licensed Master Gasfitter/Plumber do all the piping so you dont get blown away. LP Gas like natural is nothing to be taken lightly.

Good luck Any more questions feel free to contact me

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SylvanLMP

[Art_xyz]

I don’t know your specific reasons for wanting to change to LP (ie. lower utility cost, more h/w ), but you should seriously consider your initial cost of the LP water heater installation. Unless you have a good reason for the conversion I believe it won’t be worth the additional expense. (Perhaps in the Looooooooong term.)

[jnb@telenet.net]

I purchased & installed a Bradford direct vent hot water LP heater. Cost for heater was approx. $600.
My electric bill was reduced approx. $70.00 per MONTH. We use a
substantial amount of hot water in my home. My home is within the Niagara Mohawk Power area of upstate NY. My advice is change asap!! It was well worth it to us.

[Brandon Seward]

An A.O. SMith Power vented heater with 3-90 degree fittings can run out to 40ft in developed lengh! Must use long turn 90 degree
fittings or 45’s. 4ft from any fresh air inlet/window. Look into vent location before purchasing!! FInd out where a good location is!

[Author]

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