50 or 80

[dmontrond]

So I finally decided to go electric and I'm removing the 40 gal indirect boiler mate that is currently leaking. The plumber I'm dealing with is suggesting I go with an 80gal Bradford White that he states he can give me a good deal on.
However there are only two of us in the house. Two full baths and one Jacuzzi tub that I can't remember the last time we used it. (although its nice to sleep in when I'm kicked out of the bedroom ) So I figured I only need a 50 gal tank. He states the cost to run a 50 is the same as an 80.
Any confirmation one way or the other woul dbe greatly appreciated.

 

[Chris]

I am not an expert in water heaters but I would think it would take more energy to warm and keep warm that extra 30 gallons. I am guessing he might just have a heater lying around he wants gone. I have a 40 gallon with three people and have never run out of hot water.

 

[dmontrond]

I am not an expert in water heaters but I would think it would take more energy to warm and keep warm that extra 30 gallons. I am guessing he might just have a heater lying around he wants gone. I have a 40 gallon with three people and have never run out of hot water.

I think that is his intention. He has done work for me before and I trust him, but this one I'm really questioning. I don't want to get an 80gal just to help him out if in the long run I'm paying more in electrical to keep 30 gals warm. I have read on other sites that some of the new tanks can hold 80 and the cost would be close or the same. But I wanted more clarification if possible.

 

[havasu]

How much you wanna bet he has an 80 gallon water heater that needs a home and this is why he is pushing it towards you?

 

[dmontrond]

How much you wanna bet he has an 80 gallon water heater that needs a home and this is why he is pushing it towards you?

I havent got the model of the one he has but he quoted me $400 for the tank. So I assume its M280R6DS which is about a $100 savings.

 

[Chris]

I personally would rather spend a few extra bucks and get the proper sized for the home instead of going bigger. I just can't justify in my head that there is any way to heat 80 gallons of water at the same cost as heating 50 gallons. Maybe once it is warm it can keep it warm for about the same cost but as soon as you take a shower it is heating the whole thing up again. Like I said I am not the expert in this but in my experiences bigger has always cost more.

 

[havasu]

Seems like a great price.

 

[dmontrond]

How are the bradford white tanks? Are there better otions for the money?

 

[havasu]

I personally would rather spend a few extra bucks and get the proper sized for the home instead of going bigger. I just can't justify in my head that there is any way to heat 80 gallons of water at the same cost as heating 50 gallons. Maybe once it is warm it can keep it warm for about the same cost but as soon as you take a shower it is heating the whole thing up again. Like I said I am not the expert in this but in my experiences bigger has always cost more.

Not to mention potential plumbing adjustments for the bigger unit.

 

[dmontrond]

I personally would rather spend a few extra bucks and get the proper sized for the home instead of going bigger. I just can't justify in my head that there is any way to heat 80 gallons of water at the same cost as heating 50 gallons. Maybe once it is warm it can keep it warm for about the same cost but as soon as you take a shower it is heating the whole thing up again. Like I said I am not the expert in this but in my experiences bigger has always cost more.

Thanks Chris. Im thinking the same thing. I will push for a 50 gal installed. Will the 50 allow me to fill the jacuzzy tub without any issues if I ever get some free time to use it?

 

[Chris]

I would think so. You don't use all 50 gallons when filling the tub or you would scald yourself.

 

[dmontrond]

Any opinions on bradford White tanks?

 

[Chris]

I don't have any experience with them.

 

[Caduceus]

I have installed BW, State/AO Smith/American, Rheem/RUUD and there's not a noticeable difference in performance or quality in my opinion. Many new construction homes that I've worked in have 50 gallon (gas or electric) tanks as well as whirlpool tubs and the customers haven't complained of running out of hot water after filling the tub. But, depending on the tub size and how deep you like to soak, you should expect to use 30-45 gallons for filling. So you could run short if you use the dishwasher or do some laundry before filling the tub. If buying an 80 gallon would give you more confidence in having hot water for the tub and also inspire you to use it more for relaxation...not just sleeping in...I say go for it. At $400, as long as it operates properly, it's a steal. Be sure that all warranties apply and check the manufacture date. That will determine how long the warranty will be. If the tank has been sitting in a warehouse for over 6 months, you lose that time from the manufacturer's warranty. Hope this info was helpful.

 

[Beni]

If the tub is a 6' long or longer tub, by 32 to 36" wide, you might run out of hot water with a 50 gallon heater. That's the only reason I would go with an 80 gallon heater. If its a 5' x 30" tub (standard size) then 50 gallons is fine for two people...

The $400 price for the 80 gallon is a great deal, if you need it.

 

[wreckdiver]

Better check on the warranty of that Boilermate, many of them had a lifetime warranty. I have replaced 3 that were, one that wasn't. Where is it leaking? If no warranty and it is leaking around thes pipe entering the coil ( 2 are heating, 1 is cold water and 1 is thermostat well) It can be repaired, by pulling it out of the tank and re-silver soldering them.