On-demand, limitless hot water is available via tankless water heaters.
They eliminate standby energy losses, which can save your electricity costs by almost 30%.
But if you have a family of 5 members, the first question you would be asking is what size tankless water heater is for a family of 5.
Here we are, to help you out in finding the perfect-sized water heater for your family.
What Size Tankless Water Heater For a Family Of 5?
For a family of 5, a tankless water heater with a flow rate of around 11-13 GPM (gallons per minute) is recommended. This provides enough hot water for moderate simultaneous use by multiple family members. Based on other factors, like usage and power system, you may even need an 80+ gallons heater.
Tankless Water Heater Size Chart for a Family of 5:
| Family members | Usage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Members | Electric | Gas |
| Regular/Low | 80 | 50 |
| High | 80+ | 75 |
Determine The Size Of A Tankless Water Heater For A Family Of 5
Just picking a size based on some statistics is not a good idea.
You shall consider all the relevant factors that have an impact on the size of the tankless water heater.
So, consider the following things wisely before you opt to buy one.
How Big Is Your House?
There is a range of sizes available for tankless water heaters.
Virtually all contemporary water heaters have the capacity to steam your whole home’s water supply in its entirety.
If you choose a model with a lesser capacity, you could find that you can only heat the water that is used in some of the bathrooms in your home.
This would be an inefficient use of the water heater.
Traditional storage tank heaters, can only hold and heat the amount of water that you anticipate using at any one time.
But tankless heaters, when properly designed, are capable of heating an unlimited quantity of water.
Don’t pick a unit so small that it can’t supply enough hot water to run all of your showers and sinks at once.
The Number Of Family Members:
Consider household size and peak consumption when choosing a tankless water heater.
Calculate peak hot water demand based on the number of users. Choose tank size accordingly to ensure sufficient hot water supply.
The water flow rate inside your house:
Because the water steams as it enters your home, tankless water heaters are clearly different from conventional tank heaters.
This implies that the flow rate generated by your heater controls how much water is released from your faucets.
If you take this into account, you may use many faucets or shower heads simultaneously without reducing water pressure.
A simple calculation:
If a shower head typically emits 1.8 gallons of water per minute, a second shower may begin to emit 1.8 gallons of water per minute alongside the original one.
To be practical, both the showers and the tankless water heaters should be able to generate sufficient flow.
The combined flow rates of the two showers may be used to determine the optimal flow rate for the tankless water heater.
First shower uses 1.8 GPM + the second shower uses 1.8 GPM = for a total of 3.6 GPM flow rate.
While those two showers are operating, the kitchen or another bathroom may have another one running. So, it further increases the combined need for flow rate.
Typical GPM Rates:
Below, we’ve provided some average flow rates to assist you to estimate the water output of your faucets.
Depending on the layout of your home and the efficiency of your appliances, the actual flow rates may vary.
- 0.5 and 1.0 gallons per minute = bathroom sink faucet
- and 2.0 gallons per minute = showerhead
- 2.0 and 6.0 gallons per minute = typical range for a kitchen faucet
- 1.5 to 2.5 gallons per minute = dishwashers
- 2.5 to 3.5 gallons per minute = top-loading washing machine
Rate of temperature increase:
After figuring out how much water flows through each fixture, you are a step ahead.
You can calculate the amount of heat your heater has to produce to meet the desired temperature at the fixtures.
To calculate the necessary temperature increase, you have to consider two things.
The incoming water temperature and the desired temperature for the water coming out of your faucet.
A simple calculation:
If the water flowing into your house is 45 degrees Fahrenheit and the water temperature in your shower is 105 degrees Fahrenheit, then you need a 60-degree temperature boost.
From the equation: Shower temperature prediction (105°F) (-) incoming water temperature prediction (45°F) = The minimum Heat-Up for your heater is 60°F.
Your water heater must continuously heat 60 degrees Fahrenheit (C) worth of water.
Important consideration:
It’s also important to keep in mind that some US states are often warmer or colder than others, which might produce a difference in average ground temperatures throughout the country.
Estimates put the peak temperature in certain states at 75 degrees. For other states, this is at about 35 degrees.
The groundwater temperature in your state is an important factor in determining the efficiency of your heater.
If you’re unsure of what it is, you can make the assumption that it is 40 degrees. It will make sure you don’t underestimate the required temperature rise.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Tankless Water Heater for a Family of Five
Flow Rate
Select a tankless water heater with a flow rate of 11-13 GPM (gallons per minute) to provide enough hot water for moderate simultaneous use by a 5-person family. Units with higher flow rates allow for more fixtures running at once.
Temperature Rise
Consider the groundwater temperature and desired output temperature when sizing the heater. Tankless heaters are rated for a certain temperature rise, such as 90°F rise. Cooler inlet water means a higher rise is needed.
Fuel Type
Gas tankless heaters generally provide higher flow rates for their size than electric models. Propane units need larger vents than natural gas. Electric can work for a small family depending on power service size.
Application
Whole house units require higher flow rates than point-of-use under-sink or showerhead models. The whole house allows hot water at all fixtures.
Brand and Model
Research brands for reliability and reputation. Different models offer varying features and capabilities to compare based on needs.
Efficiency Ratings
Higher efficiency units reduce operating costs. Look for an Energy Star-rated model. The EF (energy factor) indicates efficiency.
Installation
A gas heater needs proper gas line sizing, venting, and clearance. Electric requires sufficient amperage circuit. Hire a qualified technician.
Maintenance
Flushing the heat exchanger annually removes scale buildup. Replace water filters per manufacturer.
Warranty
Look for at least a 5-year warranty, 10+ is better for parts and heat exchangers. Ensure labor coverage.
Cost
Get multiple quotes. Determine the payback period compared to a tank model. Consider lifetime operating expenses along with upfront costs.
Popular Tankless Water Heater Options for Larger Households
Here are overviews of popular tankless water heater options for a family of 5:
Rheem RTGH-95XLN
- Up to 9.5 GPM flow rate.
- Condensing technology for high efficiency.
- Natural gas model good for whole home use.
- Built-in water filtration system.
- Easy to adjust control settings.
Takagi T-H3-DV-N
- Up to 8 GPM flow rate.
- Compact, wall-mounted design.
- Natural gas powered.
- 10-year warranty on heat exchanger.
- Good reliability reputation.
Ecosmart ECO 27
- 27 kW electric tankless water heater.
- Up to 6.5 GPM flow rate.
- 5 modes to maximize efficiency.
- Digital temperature control.
- Lifetime warranty on stainless steel components.
Camplux 10L
- Propane-powered for 10L flow rate.
- Integrated gas regulator.
- Built-in freeze protection.
- Easy installation indoors or outdoors.
- Budget-friendly option under $500.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus
- 24 kW, 7.5 GPM electric tankless.
- Advanced flow control for consistent temp.
- Touchscreen digital temperature display.
- 99% thermal efficiency rating.
- 7-year leakage warranty.
FAQs About Tankless Water Heater For A Family Of 5
How Do I Know What Size Tankless Water Heater I Need?
The most important consideration is the number of family members.
This determines the total number of devices for the heater. Then consider the GPM carefully and the temperature rise.
Is 50-Gallon Enough For 5 People?
Yes, it is enough if you use the tank on a regular basis only.
Only a gas tankless water heater is can provide the shower for 5 people in the family.
For an electric one, the minimum requirement is 80 gallons.
How Much Does A Tankless Water Heater For Family Of 5 Cost?
For a family of five, the price of a tankless water heater can range from $500 to $2,000.
You have the take into account the size, material, overall quality, etc.
How Much Does It Cost To Install A Tankless Water Heater For Family Of 5 Cost?
You should expect to pay between $600 and $3,000 to have a tankless water heater installed in your home.
So, it will add at least a hundred dollars to your bill due to the need for professional assistance.
Final Words
You know what size a tankless water heater is for a family of 5.
Yet, to summarize it in a sentence make sure you account for peak consumption periods after calculating the water flow rate and needed temperature rise for regular hot water usage.
Don’t hesitate to let us know if there’s anything else you’re curious about despite our responses.
