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Old 03-01-16, 01:34 AM   #3
gtojohn
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Programmable thermostats are super easy to install as well. A decent basic thermostat like the honeywell pro 4000 costs about $35 and installs in 15 minutes. 4-5 low voltage wires and you're done. Wifi thermostats are the rage now. There are a few honeywell wifi units in the $100-120 range, the nest are closer to $230.

Regarding the tankless, the bigger gas units require a larger gas supply pipe. My tanked water heater used 1/2" pipe, my tankless (190kbtu+) requires 1" pipe. Similarly with electric powered water heaters, typical tanked uses a 30 amp 240vac circuit vs. tankless might require 60 amp 240vac. Upgrading either gas piping or an electrical circuit might add a significant cost to the project. I love my tankless, family of 4 we often use less than $5 a month in gas usage.
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