Water Heater Recovery Rate

Most homeowners are simply unaware how important the "recovery rate" is when selecting a water heater. Recovery rate is defined as the number of gallons heated in 1 hour by 90°. In other words, if the incoming water is 50°, the recovery rate would equal how many gallons the appliance can heat to 140° (50°+90°) in 1 hour. Recovery rate and tank capacity are often very close in value for residential units (see photo & click to enlarge).

Tank capacity is somewhat misleading. I have inspected water heaters for 12 flats that are similar in size to a 50 or 75 gallon tank but the recovery rates are 200 gallons/hour! Many home owners believe bigger is better for this appliance and that is simply not true.

Tankless water heaters are coming but thats a completely different discussion. In the mean time, think "recovery rate" and a relatively small tank capacity.

Tank capacity is 38 gallons/hour (blue oval) and the recovery rate is 39.32 gallons/hour (red oval)

A must read if you are considering installing a "Tankless Water Heater"

Tankless water heaters are becoming more and more popular and there are some things to consider before buying:  Three Things to Consider

Plumbing Valves

If (I guess I should say when...) your shut off valves leaks install a "quarter turn" valve. They are far superior to conventional stop valves.

Click to enlarge

Unclog any drain

Several sources suggest that the Friday after Thanksgiving is the busiest day for clogged drains. It makes sense I suppose. "This Old House" provides the DIY instruction for getting your drains back in order...

This Old House • Clear Any Clogged Drain

Clog-Free Traps

Here's a nifty new item From PF Waterworks if you have problem drainage...

(click image to enlarge)

Got drain problems?

This Old House has some very useful tips for unclogging drains.
Drainage Fixes