Hot Water Heaters

[dtaylo]

I have two 40 gallon gas hot water heaters plumbed in series. Is this the industry standard? I would think that parallel would be better, since each heater would then work under the same conditions. The series setup means that the second heater is supplied with hot water from the first, so the first one is on a lot more. On the other hand, series may provide a longer run of hot water for a big tub fill. Any experience from the pros on dual tanks? Thanks in advance.

[markts30]

There are a few other threads about series vs parallel water heater setups on this forum...
They should turn up in a search...

[kordts]

Series, it's pretty hard to get a perfect parrallel installation, so one does all the work.

[master plumber mark]

Series is best, hands down....

parrellel will always eventually clog up , and

cause you greif....

[dtaylo]

I did search the other threads (I'm unfamiliar with the Forum process and should have done that first), and followed the whole debate. Since they are already in series, I'll buy that argument! Now I just have to decide on the best valve to replace the failing rubber washer equipped one from the city main. Every time the washer starts to leak, the city has to come and turn the water off. Thanks all for the speedy advice.

[Gary Swart]

Ball valves usually are the best. I'd also suggest that you get a key that you can turn off your water at the meter rather than calling the city. Even though the city may not want you do have one, if you have a rupture in your mainline on a holiday or weekend, and there is just a skeleton crew at the city, it might take a considerable time for them to get to you.