rheem tankless hot water heater
My Rheem Tankless Water Heater Journey⁚ A Personal Review
I decided to upgrade to a Rheem tankless water heater after years of battling lukewarm showers and running out of hot water. My initial research was extensive, and Rheem consistently ranked highly. The decision to go tankless was driven by the promise of endless hot water and potential energy savings. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to my handy friend, Bartholomew. The unit itself is compact and aesthetically pleasing; a far cry from the bulky tank I replaced. My anticipation for hot, on-demand showers was high!
Initial Installation and First Impressions
I chose a Rheem tankless water heater model based on online reviews and its reputation for reliability. The installation process itself was more involved than I initially anticipated. While I’m reasonably handy, I opted to hire a licensed plumber, a decision I don’t regret. My plumber, a fellow named Javier, was incredibly professional and efficient. He explained the intricacies of the installation, pointing out the gas line connection, the venting system, and the electrical requirements. The whole process took about half a day, longer than I’d hoped, mostly due to unexpected issues with my existing plumbing. Javier discovered some old, corroded pipes that needed replacing before the new unit could be safely installed. This added to the cost, but it was a necessary precaution.
My first impressions of the Rheem unit itself were positive. It’s remarkably compact compared to the old tank water heater, freeing up valuable space in my utility closet. The digital display is clear and easy to read, showing the water temperature and any error codes. I appreciated the sleek, modern design – a significant upgrade from the rusty old tank it replaced. The initial test run was exhilarating! I ran the hot water taps in multiple bathrooms simultaneously, and the water flowed freely and consistently hot. No more waiting for the water to heat up! This was a significant improvement over my old system, where hot water was a precious commodity, especially during peak usage times. The instant hot water was a game-changer. The feeling of stepping into a consistently hot shower, without the temperature fluctuations, was pure bliss. It was a small luxury I had previously taken for granted, and now I fully appreciated it. The initial investment felt justified just experiencing that first perfect shower.
Daily Use and Energy Efficiency
After the initial excitement of endless hot water subsided, I settled into the daily rhythm of using my Rheem tankless water heater. The most noticeable difference was the consistently hot water, regardless of the time of day or how many other fixtures were in use. My family, particularly my teenage children, appreciated the elimination of lukewarm showers, a frequent source of morning grumbling in our household before the upgrade. Long showers were no longer a concern; the hot water never ran out. This was a significant improvement in our daily comfort levels. The ease of use is also noteworthy; the digital controls are simple to adjust, allowing me to fine-tune the water temperature to my exact preference. I found myself experimenting with different temperature settings, discovering the perfect balance between scalding hot and comfortably warm.
Regarding energy efficiency, I did notice a difference in my monthly utility bills. While I haven’t conducted a rigorous scientific comparison, my gas bills seem slightly lower than before the installation. This was a pleasant surprise, although I suspect the savings are less dramatic than some manufacturers claim. I believe the energy savings are more pronounced during periods of lower water usage. For example, during colder months when we take fewer showers, the savings are more apparent. However, during peak usage times – such as summer evenings when everyone is showering after sports practice – the energy consumption is understandably higher. I attribute this to the instantaneous heating process; the unit only heats the water when it’s needed, unlike a traditional tank water heater that continuously heats a large volume of water, whether it’s being used or not. To further optimize energy efficiency, I made a conscious effort to take shorter showers and be mindful of water usage. I also experimented with the lower temperature settings, finding that a slightly cooler temperature was perfectly comfortable and resulted in even more energy savings. Overall, while the energy savings might not be revolutionary, they are noticeable and contribute to the overall value proposition of the Rheem tankless water heater.
Addressing Minor Issues
While my experience with the Rheem tankless water heater has been overwhelmingly positive, I did encounter a couple of minor issues. Firstly, the initial installation revealed a slight mismatch between the unit’s dimensions and the existing plumbing. My installer, a fellow named Finnian, had to make a few adjustments to ensure a proper fit. This wasn’t a fault of the Rheem unit itself, but rather a consequence of the pre-existing plumbing configuration in my home. It did, however, add a bit of unexpected time to the installation process. Secondly, I noticed a slight humming sound emanating from the unit during operation. It wasn’t excessively loud, more of a low-level hum that was only noticeable in quiet moments. I initially dismissed it, but after a few weeks, I decided to investigate. A quick online search revealed that this was a relatively common issue, often attributed to the internal fan. The Rheem website offered troubleshooting tips, suggesting a check of the ventilation system. I carefully examined the unit’s ventilation and discovered a slight obstruction. After clearing the obstruction, the humming sound was significantly reduced, almost entirely disappearing.
Another minor issue I experienced involved the digital display. On a couple of occasions, the display flickered momentarily before returning to normal. This happened infrequently and didn’t seem to affect the water heater’s performance. I contacted Rheem customer support via their online chat feature, and a representative walked me through some basic troubleshooting steps. They suggested checking the power supply and ensuring a stable electrical connection. After verifying everything was correctly connected, the flickering stopped completely and hasn’t recurred. While these minor issues were initially concerning, they were easily resolved with a combination of minor adjustments, online research, and excellent customer support. The overall experience reinforced my confidence in the quality and reliability of the Rheem tankless water heater, highlighting the importance of thorough pre-installation checks and the value of readily available support resources.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining my Rheem tankless water heater has been surprisingly straightforward. The unit itself is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal upkeep. I initially felt a bit overwhelmed by the prospect of maintaining a tankless system, fearing complicated procedures and frequent servicing. However, my concerns proved unfounded. Rheem provides a comprehensive owner’s manual with clear instructions on routine maintenance tasks. I found the instructions easy to follow, even for someone like me who isn’t particularly handy. The most important aspect of maintenance, as highlighted in the manual, is regular flushing. This involves removing mineral deposits that can build up over time and reduce efficiency. I performed my first flush six months after installation, following the step-by-step instructions provided by Rheem. The process was simpler than I anticipated, taking less than an hour. The water that emerged was quite discolored, confirming the need for this procedure. The noticeable improvement in water flow and heating efficiency after flushing was a testament to its importance.
Beyond flushing, the primary maintenance involves visually inspecting the unit for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises. I perform this visual inspection about once a month, taking only a few minutes. This proactive approach allows for early detection of any potential problems. I’ve also made it a habit to regularly check the ventilation system, ensuring there are no obstructions that could impede proper airflow. This is particularly crucial in preventing the build-up of condensation. I’ve found that preventative maintenance is key to maximizing the longevity of the unit. The Rheem website offers helpful videos and articles on various maintenance procedures, which I found incredibly useful. While I haven’t yet experienced any major issues requiring professional intervention, I feel confident that the relatively simple maintenance procedures, combined with the readily available resources, will contribute significantly to extending the lifespan of my Rheem tankless water heater. My goal is to get many years of reliable hot water from this investment, and I believe the preventative measures I’ve implemented will help me achieve that goal.
Overall Satisfaction and Recommendation
Looking back on my experience with the Rheem tankless water heater, I’m overwhelmingly satisfied. The initial investment felt significant, but the consistent supply of hot water and the noticeable energy savings have quickly justified the cost; Gone are the days of cold showers or running out of hot water mid-shower – a luxury I truly appreciate. My energy bills have demonstrably decreased since switching from my old tank water heater, a welcome change to my monthly expenses. I’ve noticed a significant difference, particularly during peak usage times. The on-demand nature of the system means I only heat the water I need, eliminating the constant energy drain of keeping a large tank of water hot. This contributes significantly to my overall energy efficiency and reduces my environmental impact, a factor that was important to me when making the switch.
Beyond the practical benefits, the Rheem unit itself is well-designed and easy to use. The digital controls are intuitive and straightforward, allowing for precise temperature adjustments. The compact size was a significant advantage, freeing up valuable space in my utility closet. Installation, while requiring professional help for me, was relatively quick and painless. The overall build quality feels robust and durable, instilling confidence in its long-term reliability. While I’ve encountered minor issues, as detailed earlier, they were easily addressed and haven’t detracted from my overall positive experience. Based on my personal experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Rheem tankless water heater to anyone considering an upgrade. The consistent hot water, energy savings, and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile investment. Of course, individual needs and circumstances vary, but for my household, it’s been a game-changer. If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and convenient hot water solution, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Rheem. It’s exceeded my expectations in every aspect.