Controversy fires debate over water heaters

May 22, 2012 | It only heats up the water when we need it so there’s no wasted energy going up the flue, as is the case with tank-style heaters which keep 40 to 60 gallons of water hot and ready to go. The knock against tankless is that they’re two to three... When Direct Energy tried to slip a negative-option clause past their water heater customers recently, they fired up a storm of controversy and put the tank versus tankless debate back on the front burner. Until the story hit the front page of the Toronto Star, most people probably haven’t thought much about their rental hot-water heaters in years. Which is why some folks, like me, have opted for a tankless water heater, also called an on-demand system. Cut off that supply of hot water, however, and the howls of anguish rain down from bathrooms across Canada. Read more »

The XR90: A Tiny-But-Mighty Water Heater

Jul 15, 2011 | If a tankless model isn't an option, Rheem's new XR90 Extreme Recovery Gas Water Heater might fit the bill. According to the manufacturer, this Energy Star qualified heater requires just 29 gallons of storage space but can heat water faster than a

National Grid Offers Energy-Saving Tips for Vacationers

Jul 16, 2011 | If you have a natural gas water heater, use the "vacation" mode. Just remember to run the hot water from a sink before turning the water heater back on to ensure the tank is not empty. Another option would be to install a natural gas tankless water

Rheem Debuts a Compact, 29-Gallon Residential Water Heater That Heats Water ...

Jul 08, 2011 | “Homeowners can now have a smaller, more compact water heater—without sacrificing power or performance,” said Tommy Olsen, Rheem senior product manager. “With the Rheem XR90, the household gets more hot water faster, at a lower operating cost.