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What Size Tankless Water Heater to Replace a 50 Gallon: A Comprehensive Guide

Replacing a 50-gallon water heater with a tankless model requires understanding how tankless systems operate and how to size them correctly. Unlike traditional tank heaters that store and continuously heat a set amount of water, tankless units heat water on demand, providing endless hot water but requiring sufficient capacity to handle peak usage times. The right size depends on your household’s simultaneous hot water needs, the groundwater temperature in your area, and the desired output temperature. Proper sizing ensures efficiency, performance, and longevity of the unit.

Factors to Consider When Sizing a Tankless Water Heater

Flow Rate (GPM)

The flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the unit can deliver at once. To replace a 50-gallon tank, calculate the total GPM required during peak usage. For example, a shower typically uses 2.5 GPM, a dishwasher 1.5 GPM, and a washing machine 2.0 GPM. If two showers and a dishwasher run simultaneously, the total demand would be 6.5 GPM.

Temperature Rise

Temperature rise is the difference between the incoming groundwater temperature and the desired output temperature. Colder climates require a higher temperature rise, meaning the heater must work harder. For instance, if groundwater is 50°F and the desired output is 120°F, the temperature rise is 70°F. Tankless heaters are rated for specific GPM at a given temperature rise, so choose a unit that meets your needs.

Calculating the Right Size

To determine the appropriate tankless water heater size, follow these steps:

List all hot water devices and their GPM requirements.
Estimate the maximum simultaneous usage scenario.
Add the GPM of all devices used at the same time.
Determine the groundwater temperature in your area.
Calculate the required temperature rise (output temperature – groundwater temperature).
Select a unit that meets or exceeds the total GPM at the calculated temperature rise.

Comparison of Popular Tankless Water Heaters

Model	Flow Rate (GPM at 70°F Rise)	Energy Source	Price Range (USD)
Rinnai RU199iN	9.8	Natural Gas	$1,200 – $1,500
EcoSmart ECO 27	6.5	Electric	$500 – $700
Navien NPE-240A	9.9	Natural Gas	$1,600 – $2,000
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus	7.0	Electric	$1,000 – $1,300

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation is critical for optimal performance. Gas-powered units require venting, while electric models need sufficient electrical capacity. Regular maintenance, such as descaling, ensures longevity and efficiency, especially in areas with hard water. Consult a professional for installation to avoid common pitfalls.

References

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