If you’re in the market for a new tankless water heater, you’ll need to know what size wire to use. The wire size will depend on the amperage of the heater and the voltage of your home’s electrical system. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right wire size for your tankless water heater.
Contents
What Size Wire For Tankless Water Heater
When installing a tankless water heater, you must utilize either a 120- or 240-volt circuit. Both voltages require an 8-gauge wire, and the section exposed to the area under the sink must be the armored cable.
The ampacity requirement for a tankless water heater differs from that for a standard storage water heater. The U.S. National Electrical Code (NEC) permits up to 80% of the branch circuit OCPD to be used for tankless water heaters, rather than the 60% maximum allowed by the NEC for standard storage water heaters. This higher percentage is because tankless water heaters have much shorter periods of operation than storage water heaters.
A single tankless water heater can provide hot water for several appliances at once, making them ideal for larger households or businesses. Consider the NEC’s different ampacity requirements when calculating the wire size necessary for your tankless water heater installation. This will ensure that your installation is up to code and safe for your home and your family.
Can You Use 12 Gauge Wire For A Hot Water Heater?
When selecting electrical wire for any home project, it is important to consider the gauge of the wire. The thickness of the wire will determine how much current it can carry safely. For most home projects, 12-gauge wire is a good choice. However, a thicker wire may be required for some applications, such as a water heater. Most electric water heaters sold by Home Depot draw 4500 watts, which would require 18.75 amps.
This is a little marginal for a 12-gauge circuit. A few models are rated at 3800 watts, which would require 15.83 amps. It is irrelevant what water heater is used–you can’t use #12 for any water heater on a 30-amp breaker. When in doubt, always err on the side of using a thicker wire to avoid overloading the circuit and causing a fire.
What Size Breaker Do I Need For A Tankless Electric Water Heater?
A tankless electric water heater is a great choice for those who want to save space and money on their energy bill. But what size breaker do you need for a tankless electric water heater? The answer may surprise you. A gas tankless water heater only needs a 15-amp, 120 volts dedicated single-pole breaker.
This is because the tankless electric water heater does not use a storage tank, so it does not require as much power to heat the water. As a result, you can save money on your energy bill and have more space in your home. So if you’re considering a tankless electric water heater, ask about the size breaker you’ll need. It may be smaller than you think!
How Many Amps Does A Tankless Water Heater Need?
Water heaters are becoming increasingly popular in households across the country. A tankless water heater provides several benefits over a traditional model, including on-demand hot water and reduced energy costs. But one question that often comes up is: how many amps does a tankless water heater need?
On average, a tankless water heater will require 120 amps to run. However, if your home is older, you may need to upgrade your electrical system to accommodate the additional amperage. This is something that a professional electrician should do. Once your system is up to date, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a tankless water heater without any worries about overloading your electrical system.
What Size Wire Do I Need For A 30 Amp Breaker On A Water Heater?
Many home appliances require their dedicated circuit to function safely and properly. This is especially true for larger appliances like water heaters, which typically require a 30-amp circuit breaker. But what size wire do you need for a 30-amp breaker? The answer depends on the type of appliance and the start load.
You’ll need a 10-2 non-metallic or MC cable for a large boiler tank.
This type of wire is suitable for start loads of 40-amps and a constant load of 35-amps. Remember that the start load is typically higher than the constant load, so choosing a wire that can handle the highest possible load is important. Otherwise, your appliance may not operate correctly or could be at risk of overheating. With a little planning, you can ensure that your home is wired correctly for all your appliances.
Conclusion
So, what size wire do you need for your tankless water heater installation? You’ll need a 120- or 240-volt circuit and an 8-gauge wire. Ensure that the exposed wire section is armored cable to protect it from potential damage. If you have any questions about wiring your tankless water heater, be sure to consult with a qualified electrician.
