Are your customers constantly asking about upgrading their home’s hot water system? You are definitely not alone. Homeowners are catching on to the energy savings and endless hot water that tankless systems provide, which means you need to be ready to supply and install them efficiently.
But with so many options hitting the market, selecting the perfect unit for a specific job can feel a bit overwhelming. You want to make sure you are offering a reliable solution that prevents future callbacks, keeps your clients happy, and fits perfectly within your project timelines.
If you are wondering exactly how to buy a tankless water heater that checks all the boxes, you have come to the right place. We are going to walk through the essential factors you need to consider before making a purchase.
From sizing requirements and fuel types to the best brands and the most reliable wholesale supplier for your business, this guide will help you streamline your purchasing process so you can get back to what you do best.
Understand the Sizing Requirements
Unlike traditional tank heaters that are sized by gallon capacity, tankless units are sized based on two main factors: flow rate and temperature rise. Getting this right is crucial for ensuring your customer actually gets that endless hot water they are expecting.
First, you need to calculate the flow rate. Think about how many fixtures the household might run at the same time. If they want to run a shower (typically 2.5 gallons per minute) and a kitchen sink (1.5 GPM) simultaneously, you will need a unit that can handle a minimum flow rate of 4.0 GPM.
Next, consider the temperature rise. This is the difference between the cold groundwater entering the home and the desired hot water temperature. Groundwater temperatures vary wildly depending on your location. If you are working in a warmer climate like Texas or Arizona, your temperature rise requirement will be much lower than if you were working in a colder northern state.
Choose the Right Fuel Type
Tankless water heaters primarily come in gas (natural gas or propane) and electric models. Your choice usually depends on the home’s existing infrastructure.
Gas tankless heaters are highly popular because they typically offer higher flow rates, making them great for larger homes. However, you will need to account for proper venting and ensure the home’s gas line can handle the increased BTU load.
Electric tankless units are incredibly efficient and often easier to install since they do not require venting. But there is a catch. They draw a massive amount of electricity. You will often need to verify that the home’s electrical panel can support the heavy amp draw, which might require an expensive panel upgrade for the homeowner.
Top Tankless Water Heater Brands to Trust
When you are buying supplies for a big contract or a quick residential repair, you need brands that offer proven reliability. Here are five of the best names in the industry that you should consider keeping on your radar.
Navien
Navien is a massive player in the condensing tankless market. Their NPE-2 series utilizes advanced condensing technology, which captures extra heat from the exhaust gases to pre-heat incoming water. This makes their units incredibly energy-efficient and highly sought after by eco-conscious homeowners.
Steibel Eltron
If you need an electric option, Steibel Eltron is a fantastic choice. Known for their German engineering, models like their Tempra Plus whole-house heaters offer sleek, space-saving designs. They completely eliminate standby heat loss and provide a reliable, unlimited supply of hot water without the need for venting.
State Water Heaters
State Water Heaters offers a robust lineup of both gas and electric models. Their ProLine series is a favorite among professional plumbers because these units are compact, straightforward to install, and built to deliver continuous hot water consistently. They are reliable workhorses for everyday residential jobs.
Ruud
Ruud has been a trusted name in the HVAC and plumbing industry for decades. Their tankless water heaters are highly innovative, providing excellent energy efficiency alongside continuous hot water delivery. They are a solid, dependable choice when you want a brand with a long history of quality manufacturing.
Trutankless
For your tech-savvy customers, Trutankless is an exciting option. These units stand out by offering smart home integration. Homeowners can easily control temperatures, track their water usage, and even monitor maintenance alerts directly from their smartphones, adding a premium, high-tech touch to their home’s plumbing.
The Best Place to Buy Your Plumbing Supplies
Knowing what to buy is only half the battle. Knowing where to buy it makes all the difference in your daily operations. When you need to reduce supply acquisition time and keep your projects running smoothly, Van Marcke Plumbing Supply is your go-to partner.
As a professional plumber, you cannot afford to wait around for out-of-stock items. Van Marcke Plumbing Supply is the best wholesale plumbing supply company in the region, carrying all the top brands you need, including Navien, Steibel Eltron, State Water Heaters, Ruud, and Trutankless.
With over 20 convenient locations across Arizona, Nevada, and Texas, they act as your local supply partner. If you cannot make it into the store, their e-commerce platform, PlumbersOnly.com, allows you to shop anytime, anywhere. You get 24/7 online access to over 6,000 brand-name products, ensuring you can place orders efficiently and tackle urgent repair needs without missing a beat.
Plus, Van Marcke values your partnership. Their excellent Rewards Program allows you to earn points on every purchase, which you can redeem for products or gift cards. It is just another way they help you maximize your business’s profitability.
Ready to Streamline Your Purchasing Process?
Buying the right tankless water heater does not have to be a headache. By mastering the sizing calculations, understanding fuel requirements, and sticking to trusted brands, you can provide top-tier service to your customers every single time.
More importantly, partnering with a reliable supplier ensures you always have the stock you need, exactly when you need it. Ready to make your purchasing process simply efficient? Head over to Van Marcke Plumbing Supply today, explore their massive inventory online, and start earning rewards on your very next order.