Selecting a water heater for oil to gas conversion

zepfan

Need advice for selecting a gas water heater for a house that is going to convert from oil to gas. The existing oil fired WH is a 50 gallon model with a 184 GPH recovery rate. I realize that that recovery rate is impossible to even get close to with a standard natural gas WH, and that's ok. The house is 4,200 ft.2, and has three and a half baths. The master bathroom has a small whirlpool bathtub. There are four occupants. The new owners are on a budget so there are not interested in one of the tankless heaters. We are trying to stay within their budget, and have narrowed it down to a 50 gal w/ a 54 gph recovery, or a 75 gallon w/ a 82 gph recovery. I hope that the 50 will do the trick, however any input will be much appreciated. thanks to all.

JUGHNE

What are they expecting....how many baths in old house....how much recovery in old house?

Do they understand the term rationing? With 3.5 baths & 4 occupants this could turn into a large demand IMO.

Once upon a time a 50 gal gas WH would handle a large family but they know the limited time to spend in the shower etc.

The word "budget" is used. When you budget the WH tank you also have to budget the usage. IIWM I would suggest the 75 gal tank.

Steamhead

How about putting a gas conversion burner in the existing WH?

Steamhead

I believe the OP, zepfan, is a contractor rather than a homeowner........

zepfan

Thanks to all. The more thought I give it the 75 gallon, is going to be the only option we give. Saving money will have to be done elseware

Bob Harper

Converting fuels triggers a level II full comprehensive chimney inspection per NFPA 211. This will surely reveal the need for a listed chimney liner. The chimney would need to be swept first then a stainless steel liner installed. You can NOT install aluminum liners in chimneys that once serve oil-they will rot out within a year. By the time you factor these costs into the job you might be better off just installing a power vented WH vented out the sidewall with PVC.

If you have a boiler, just install an indirect tank and be done with it. HTH,

Steamhead

zepfan said:

Thanks to all. The more thought I give it the 75 gallon, is going to be the only option we give. Saving money will have to be done elseware

Sure that will handle the Jacuzzi?