09-25-14, 08:37 AM | #1 | |
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2015 - Higher Efficiency Water Heaters
Apparently, we have embarrassed Uncle Sam with our DIY energy improvements because...
U.S. Department of Energy is mandating higher efficiency standards on all water heaters manufactured on and after 2015. As far as I can tell, the testing procedures are not defined yet, but here are some of the relevant info (SOURCE): Quote:
I'd be interested to know what the EU standards are. Best, -AC
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09-25-14, 11:20 AM | #2 |
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Sounds like it will make gas water heaters which are a little bit more expensive ($50 to $100) than electric heaters a lot more expensive than electrics.
Those hybrid things start at $1000. They seem like they would be good form some situations. If you don't install or operate them correctly then you just bought an electric that costs more than 3 times the cost of a regular electric heater. |
09-25-14, 12:14 PM | #3 |
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Window A/Cs are commonly available for around $100. The main reason heat pump water heaters cost so much is because there's not much competition. Once they become more common, they should only cost $100 or so more than regular electric.
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09-25-14, 01:28 PM | #4 |
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The gooberment is all worried about saving a few KWH on water heaters while allowing up to 20KW of STRIP HEAT to be used as a primary heat source for homes. Ban electric furnaces as a primary source of heat before worrying about a little more insulation on water heaters.
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09-25-14, 05:27 PM | #5 |
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Do both....
Better yet, mandate a solar water heater then do the above, haha |
09-25-14, 05:42 PM | #6 |
Supreme EcoRenovator
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wow.....don't hold your breath on that one to make much difference.
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09-25-14, 05:57 PM | #7 |
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09-25-14, 11:28 PM | #8 |
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Where I live straight electric furnaces aren't allowed by code in permited work. Most jurisdictions that use somewhat modern codes should require heat pumps. I even recommend heat pump hybrids for people using propane for heat. It wasn't that long ago when the minimum allowable a/c efficiency was 10 seer, at least now its 13, thank you DOE! That 13 minimum helps make a good price point for 14.5 seer. As far as hot water heating, I think they might save more with built in self learning timersr. It seems a lot of designs incorporate the water heater in the attic, great for heating, pita for replacement and water leaks. Making a gas water heater 90% or higher efficiency might save a fraction of small amount of gas usage and I don't see any potential paypack or return of investment within the decade lifespan of such heater
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09-26-14, 12:23 AM | #9 |
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09-26-14, 05:09 AM | #10 | |
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Quote:
I suspect that the min 13 seer AC will be replaced with a 15+ seer soon. |
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