View Full Version : New hotwater systems savings ?
rondo
02-22-2001, 07:28 PM
Has anyone installed a new energy efficient hotwater system such as the NATCO Super efficient or other such systems? The Journal and coin-op magazines claim they can pay for their selves in 1 to 2 years in gas savings. The NATCO system cost between 7,000 - 14,000 Dollars. I find it had to believe that you can get that much savings. Can anyone make me a believer?
I just replaced my 20 year-old Ace water heater with a new Ace water heater and have discovered that I am saving about 25-30% in gas. Obviously, I am talking about the gas used for the water heater, not the gas used for the entire store. Anytime, you replace an old system with a new system you probably are going to save on gas simply because your "old" system is/was not as efficient as your "new" system. With gas prices being what they are, I will pay for my new system in about 7 months. Do I think that there are more efficient systems out there??? Probably, but you can only save so much and I just can not possibly justify spending $7,000 - $14,000. My new Ace water heater (700,000 BTU) cost $2,800. I did not need a new tank, but the price quoted to me for a new 350 gallon storage tank was $2,300 - still well below your totals. I hope this helps in some way.
ptdiver
02-24-2001, 01:16 AM
Many of these super type heaters require soft water. Check before you buy.
I installed a heat pump system for my laundry cooling which has a heat recovery system to heat my water. I insalled it in 1993 and it has been very effective in heating the water when it has been operational. I am presently replacing a water tank (my third) have replaced two compressors (one under warranty) a fan motor and a few electronic control boards. The system was app. $10,000 when it was installed. It is a great concept. Would try to get stainless steel water tanks if I were to do it over again. Also would try to purchase an extended warranty if available.