Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their energy efficiency and endless supply of hot water. While some homeowners prefer propane tankless water heaters, others may want to switch to natural gas due to its affordability and accessibility. This article aims to discuss the possibility of converting a propane tankless water heater to natural gas and the factors one should consider before making the switch.
Understanding Tankless Water Heaters
Before delving into the topic of converting a propane tankless water heater to natural gas, it is essential to understand how tankless water heaters work. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless models heat water directly as it passes through the unit, eliminating the need for a storage tank. This process involves heating elements that run on either propane or natural gas.
Propane vs. Natural Gas
Propane and natural gas are both fossil fuels commonly used for residential heating and cooking purposes. However, their properties differ, and it is essential to understand these differences when considering a conversion.
Propane offers higher heat output and energy content per unit, making it an excellent choice for appliances requiring high temperatures such as grills, ovens, and water heaters. On the other hand, natural gas is generally more affordable, easily accessible through existing utility lines, and considered a cleaner fuel as it produces fewer emissions.
Factors to Consider
Before converting a propane tankless water heater to natural gas, several factors need to be taken into account:
- Compatibility: Check if the specific model of the tankless water heater is designed to be convertible from propane to natural gas. Manufacturers often produce alternative kits or conversion parts to accommodate different fuel types.
- Professional Installation: Converting a tankless water heater from propane to natural gas involves altering the fuel supply, gas pressure, and specific components within the unit. This task should be performed by a qualified professional to ensure safety and optimal performance.
- Cost Considerations: The cost of converting a propane tankless water heater to natural gas will depend on various factors, including the brand, model, and availability of conversion kits. Additionally, installation costs and potential modifications to gas lines or ventilation might be necessary.
Converting the Tankless Water Heater
If the propane tankless water heater is compatible and you have decided to convert it to natural gas, here is an overview of the conversion process:
- Acquire a Conversion Kit: Contact the manufacturer or an authorized dealer to purchase a conversion kit specifically designed for your water heater model. These kits typically include new gas jets, burners, and control valves.
- Turn off Gas Supply: Shut off the gas supply to the water heater and ensure that it is completely disconnected before proceeding with any conversion procedures.
- Replace Gas Orifices: Remove the existing propane orifices from the burner assembly and replace them with the natural gas orifices provided in the conversion kit. These orifices control the gas flow and must be adequately sized for the different fuel type.
- Modify Gas Pressure: Adjust the gas pressure regulator on the tankless water heater to accommodate the lower gas pressure associated with natural gas. This step should be performed by a professional to ensure it is done accurately and safely.
- Ignition Adjustments: Some propane tankless water heaters require adjustments to the ignition system to operate efficiently with natural gas. This may involve altering the flame sensors, ignition timing, or other components. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
In summary, converting a propane tankless water heater to natural gas is indeed possible, but it requires careful consideration and professional installation. Assessing compatibility, cost considerations, and ensuring proper installation are key factors to ensure safety, performance, and ultimate satisfaction with your water heating system. Always consult with manufacturers or professionals before proceeding with any conversions, and follow their guidelines to guarantee a smooth and successful transition.