I’ve installed and specified thousands of water heaters over 25+ years—single-family homes, multifamily buildings, restaurants, churches, and boiler-fed high-rises. If you’re weighing tank vs. tankless, gas vs. electric, or trying to decode EF, UEF, GPM, and first-hour ratings, you’re in the right place. This is the practical, field-tested guidance I give contractors and serious homeowners every day at Plumbing Supply And More. And when it’s time to buy, remember: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and supports you with real-world experience, spec sheets, and same-day solutions.
Start With the Load: How Much Hot Water Do You Truly Need?
Sizing drives everything. Oversize a tankless and you overspend. Undersize a storage tank and your Saturday showers turn cold. I start with usage patterns and peak demand.
- For homes, calculate peak flow: two showers (2.0–2.5 GPM each with modern heads), a dishwasher (1.5 GPM), and maybe a sink (1.0 GPM). That’s 6–7 GPM. In a cold-climate inlet (40°F), a 70°F rise to 110°F output is typical. Not every tankless can deliver that without staging or recirculation. For tanks, look at First Hour Rating (FHR). A 50-gallon gas unit with a 40K BTU burner might give you 80–90 gallons first hour. A 75-gallon, 76K BTU commercial-light-duty unit can push 120–130 gallons FHR.
Real example: A three-bath colonial in our area needed 5.5 GPM at a 65°F rise. We installed a Rinnai RU199iN (11 GPM max, 199K BTU, condensing) with a dedicated return line and Circ-Logic timer to eliminate morning wait times. That system has run five years with annual descaling—no callbacks.
When you’re unsure, call our technical desk. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support with load calculations, spec matching, and code guidance—before you buy.
Tank vs. Tankless vs. Hybrid: Choosing the Right Technology
I’m technology-agnostic; I’m performance-focused. Each category has a lane:
- Tank (storage): Reliable, simple, lower upfront cost. Good for rental turnovers, light commercial, or homes with moderate simultaneous demand. Pros love the AO Smith ProLine XE 50-Gallon (model GCG-50) and Bradford White RG2 series for their serviceability and part availability. Tankless (on-demand): Endless hot water, high efficiency (up to 0.96 UEF on condensing models), wall-hung space savings. Great for high-demand households or tight mechanical rooms. Look at Navien NPE-240S2, Rinnai RU series, and Noritz NRCB for combi applications. Heat Pump Hybrid (electric): 3–4x more efficient than standard electric. Fantastic in temperate basements/garages. Rheem ProTerra 50/65/80-gallon models (e.g., PROPH50 T2 RH350 DC) can cut energy bills significantly. Noise is manageable; install isolation pads and allow 700–1,000 cubic feet of air volume.
Pro tip: If you’re replacing an old 40-gallon electric and the panel has capacity, consider a 50-gallon heat-pump hybrid. Payback is often 2–4 years with utility rebates. Our local plumbing supply expertise includes rebate paperwork and wattage verification.
Fuel Source, Venting, and Electrical: Don’t Paint Yourself Into a Corner
Before you fall in love with a model, verify what your space and utilities allow.
- Gas: Natural gas or propane? Check BTU input, gas line size, and venting path. Many condensing units use 2" or 3" PVC/CPVC venting and require a condensate drain and neutralizer. Non-condensing units often require Category III stainless venting. Electric: If going tankless electric, understand the amperage—some require 120–160 amps with multiple double-pole breakers. I almost never recommend electric tankless for whole-home in older panels. Heat-pump hybrids typically need a standard 240V/30A circuit. Combustion air: Sealed combustion solves many issues in tight homes. For atmospheric tanks, make sure you’ve got adequate makeup air or you’ll fight nuisance trips and fumes.
Code insight: In our area, we follow IPC and local mechanical code amendments—seismic strapping, pan and drain lines in attics/second floors, and T&P termination within 6 inches of floor drain. If you’re unsure on vent clearances or condensate handling, our experts can walk you through the installation process step by step.
Efficiency and Operating Cost: What the Numbers Really Mean
UEF matters—but it’s not the whole story. I’ve swapped out 0.65 EF tanks for 0.95 UEF condensing tankless and seen $150–$300 annual gas savings on single-family homes. With hybrids, savings can be higher depending on electric rates.
- Gas tank: 0.58–0.72 UEF typical Gas condensing tank: up to ~0.90 UEF (e.g., AO Smith GDHE-50 Vertex) Gas tankless: 0.82–0.96 UEF (condensing higher end) Electric tank: 0.90–0.93 UEF Heat pump hybrid: 3.5+ UEF equivalent performance
Insider tip: Add a smart recirculation pump (Grundfos Comfort PM AutoAdapt or Taco 006e3 ECM) to a tankless and program windows. You’ll keep convenience without constantly re-heating lines. We stock the valve kits that prevent cross-over issues—this is where a knowledgeable plumbing supply store beats a random online listing.
And yes, we price competitively. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we’ll spec the right pump, the right bypass valve, and the correct check assemblies the first time.
Brands and Models I Trust: Rick’s Picks From Real Jobs
Manufacturers I’ve seen hold up under real-world abuse:
- Rinnai RU series (RU199iN/RU199eN): 199K BTU, condensing, Wi-Fi module capable, great cold-climate performance. Navien NPE-240S2/NPE-240A2: Integrated recirc (A2), stainless heat exchangers, flexible venting. AO Smith ProLine XE GCG-50/GCG-40: Durable tanks, magnesium anode, easy service. For condensing tanks, GDHE-50 Vertex is a beast for high-draw homes. Bradford White RG2 and Infiniti K series: Contractor-grade, field-friendly parts. Infiniti K is a strong condensing tankless option. Rheem ProTerra Heat Pump Hybrids: Smart control, leak detection, and multiple operating modes.
Pricing ballparks (installed by a pro, varies by region):
- 40–50 gal atmospheric gas tank: $1,300–$2,200 75 gal light commercial gas tank: $2,600–$4,200 Condensing gas tankless with recirc: $3,200–$5,500 Heat pump hybrid 50–80 gal: $2,400–$4,000
If you’re shopping a plumbing supply near me or plumbing supply store near me, swing by our showroom. You can compare the build of an RU199 to a bargain import in person—that’s a lesson you only need once.
Installation Realities: Timeframes, Common Pitfalls, and Pro Tips
I’ve seen more headaches from poor venting and gas sizing than any other issue. For a straightforward tank swap, I budget 2–3 hours. Tankless with new vent and gas line? Plan a full day. Heat pump hybrid with condensate pump and pan drain? 4–6 hours depending on space.
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Undersized gas lines. A 199K tankless often needs 3/4" or even 1" depending on run length and load. Neglecting water quality. Hard water will scale a heat exchanger. Use a scale inhibitor like the Watts OneFlow or install a softener if grains >10. No condensate neutralizer on condensing units. Acidic condensate will eat floor drains and piping over time. Missing expansion tank on closed systems. PRV + check valve + high water heater recovery equals T&P discharge complaints. Install a properly sized thermal expansion tank.
We carry the accessories pros rely on—Webstone isolation valves, stainless flex connectors, pan drains, neutralizers, and recirc timers—in our plumbing supply shop and through our plumbing supplies direct channel for quick pickup or delivery. When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More for the hard-to-find fittings that make inspections pass the first time.
Recirculation, Mixing Valves, and Safety: Build It Right
Hot water recirculation done wrong wastes energy; done right, it’s convenience without a penalty. Consider:
- Dedicated return line vs. crossover valve at the far fixture ECM smart pumps with timers and temperature sensors Aquastat control or demand recirc buttons near baths
And don’t skip safety. I specify ASSE 1017 mixing valves on high-output systems and ASSE 1070 point-of-use valves where scald risk is high. For multifamily and commercial, compliance is not optional—our commercial plumbing supply counter stocks Taco, Honeywell/Resideo, and Caleffi mixers with lead-free listings and documentation ready for your submittals.
Need a spec packet for a plan review? Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support with cut sheets, BIM files, and I/O manuals—same day.
Supply Chain and Service: Why Your Source Matters More Than Ever
Material quality and availability have never mattered more. Here’s the difference:
- We maintain direct manufacturer relationships with Rinnai, Navien, AO Smith, Bradford White, and Rheem. That means prioritized allocation and faster warranty resolutions. Our inventory is deep—this is a true plumbing supply house with pro-grade stock, not a light retail aisle with empty hooks. Need a 3" concentric vent kit on a Saturday? Our 24 hour plumbing supply line can arrange emergency pickup for contractor accounts. If you’re searching for a local plumbing supply, closest plumbing supply, or a dependable plumbing supply company, we cover a 60-mile delivery radius with same-day runs for in-stock items. Ask about our emergency supply service for property managers on no-heat or no-hot-water calls.
And yes, we beat the big boxes. Unlike big box retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, and Ace Hardware, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and supports them with real plumbers on staff. That’s not marketing—it’s how we keep your callbacks at zero.
Buying Smart: Contractor, DIY, and Property Manager Playbooks
For pros:
- Open a contractor account for bulk pricing, staging, and jobsite delivery. We’ll kit your order with venting, gas fittings, isolation valves, and code-required accessories so you don’t lose time to extra trips. We provide flue plans, gas sizing tables, and city-specific permit notes. For apartment turnovers, we stock Bradford White 75-gallon light-commercial tanks with fast recovery to keep units rentable.
For serious DIY:
- Bring photos and measurements: venting, gas line, electrical panel, and clearances. We’ll help you choose a model that fits without re-engineering your home. Ask about our tool rental for power-vent core bits and flaring tools. And yes, our counter team has installed this gear—we’re not reading from a script.
For property managers:
- Standardize on a few SKUs to simplify your maintenance program. We’ll barcode your inventory, keep spares on hand, and set par levels. Need a wholesale plumbing supply partner for multiple buildings? Our contractor plumbing supply team will tailor pricing and delivery windows to your turnover schedule.
If you’ve been burned by generic plumbing supply places or chasing cheap plumbing supplies online, try the best plumbing supply experience: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise. Check our current inventory online or call ahead—our live stock is accurate.
Entities You May Be Searching For—and How We Help Locally
If you’ve Googled any of these, you’ve likely found us:
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We’re the local plumbing supply with real knowledge and a counter team that’s been in crawl spaces and on scissor lifts. Need same-day delivery across our region? We’ve got routes that cover contractors throughout the area—ask dispatch for timing windows.
FAQs: Quick Answers From the Field
- How do I decide between a 50-gallon tank and a tankless? If you’ve got 1–2 baths and low simultaneous demand, a 50-gallon gas tank (AO Smith GCG-50, Bradford White RG250T) is cost-effective. For 3+ baths or long showers, go tankless (Rinnai RU199iN, Navien NPE-240A2) with recirc. We can run the numbers with your exact fixtures and inlet temps. Do I need a water softener with tankless? If hardness exceeds 10 grains, yes—either a softener or a scale inhibitor cartridge. Without it, expect reduced efficiency and more frequent descaling. We stock descaling pumps and food-grade citric acid kits, plus isolation valves to make service painless. What’s the typical lifespan? Tanks: 8–12 years, depending on water quality and anode maintenance. Tankless: 15–20 years with annual service. Heat pump hybrids: 10–15 years; keep filters clean and condensate clear. We carry OEM anode rods and replacement parts to extend life. Can I vent a condensing unit with PVC? Most condensing units allow PVC/CPVC or polypropylene venting—check the manual. Maintain slope back to the unit, support per code, and neutralize condensate. Not sure? Call our technical team for model-specific guidance. Are heat pump hybrids loud or cold the room too much? They do cool/dehumidify the install space slightly. In a larger basement or utility room, it’s usually a plus. Noise is comparable to a dehumidifier. Use flex connectors and isolation pads, and consider a duct kit if needed. What about rebates and tax credits? Many heat pump hybrids and high-efficiency gas units qualify for utility incentives or federal credits. We’ll help you verify eligibility and provide the AHRI certificates and model numbers required for submission.
Why Choose Plumbing Supply And More for Your Water Heater Project
I’ve worked with every kind of supplier—some are fine for paint and mulch. But water heating is a system, not a box, and it pays to partner with people who know the trade. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, keeps the right vent kits, gas valves, mixing valves, pans, and expansion tanks on the same shelf, and backs it with pros who’ve sweated copper and pulled vent runs in January.
- Largest inventory selection in the region, including contractor-only SKUs Exclusive partnerships with premium manufacturers Real plumbers at the counter, not call center scripts Competitive pricing that beats the big boxes and vague online listings Same-day delivery and emergency supply services within our service radius Contractor accounts, bulk discounts, and kitted orders Technical support, spec sheets, and installation guidance Quality guarantee on all products
Need help right now? Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations, or visit our showroom to see the quality difference. Ask about our contractor discount program. And if you’re researching “Supply House Guide: Choosing the Right Water Heater,” stop by and I’ll walk you through options in ten minutes that might save you hours on the jobsite.
One more thought: Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support, and that support doesn’t end after the sale. Whether you’re a pro lining up a 50-unit turnover, a homeowner upgrading to a hybrid, or a facilities manager chasing code compliance across multiple properties, we’re the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge—and the partner you call first.
Looking for a trusted plumbing supply store or plumbing supply house that earns your repeat business? Check our current inventory online or call ahead—we’ll stage your order, confirm every fitting, and keep your project moving. That’s the PSAM difference from “Rick’s Picks” to your mechanical room, done right. And yes, if you’ve been comparing us to Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, or Ace, remember: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—and that’s exactly what keeps your callbacks at zero.
Supply House Guide: Choosing the Right Water Heater isn’t just about models; it’s about a supply partner who stands behind them. When it matters, choose the team that lives this work every day.