
A 50-gallon indirect water heater is a great investment for any home, providing a reliable and efficient source of hot water.
These systems can be powered by a variety of fuels, including natural gas, propane, and even solar energy.
To choose the right indirect water heater for your needs, consider the size of your household and the number of hot water users.
A 50-gallon tank is a good starting point for most families, but you may need to adjust based on your specific needs.
The cost of an indirect water heater can vary widely, depending on the fuel source and installation requirements.
Typically, you can expect to pay between $800 and $2,000 for a new 50-gallon indirect water heater.
Choosing the Right Indirect Water Heater
Choosing the right indirect water heater is crucial for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
A 50-gallon tank size is a popular choice for households with moderate hot water needs, but it's essential to consider the flow rate of your household to ensure the tank can keep up.
A 50-gallon tank with a 10-gallon per minute flow rate is often sufficient for small to medium-sized households.
The type of fuel used to heat the water is also a critical factor, with electric, gas, and heat pump options available.
Electric indirect water heaters are generally the most cost-effective option, but gas models offer a more efficient and cost-effective solution in the long run.
Readers also liked: Water Pipes Cost
Maintenance and Support
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your indirect water heater. Check the temperature and pressure relief valve annually to ensure it's functioning properly.
You should also inspect the anode rod every 6 months and replace it if necessary, as it helps to protect the tank from corrosion.
In addition to these tasks, consider having a professional inspect your indirect water heater every 5 years to catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
Parts & Replacements
When searching for specific parts or replacements, it's essential to know what you're looking for. You can search by a specific part number, which will give you a detailed breakdown of the part's specifications, features, and documents.

The NTI Trin and Stor Indirect Water Heater, S Series, has a 53-gallon capacity and a 180 MBtu/hr BTU rating. Its high-quality construction and components make it a popular product.
The storage tanks are renowned for their maximum resistance to corrosion, which increases their longevity. They come in a wide range of sizes to fit any need.
The storage tanks are made of stainless steel, which is lead-free and resistant to corrosion. The tanks are also passivated to remove all surface contaminations and restore the chromium oxide layer of the stainless steel surface.
Here are some key features of the NTI Trin and Stor Indirect Water Heater, S Series:
- Lead-free
- Simple and quick aquastat connection
- High accuracy TPI control thermostat
- Highest quality construction
- Tank and coil is constructed out of type 444 stainless steel
- Tanks are completely pickled, rinsed and passivated inside and outside
- Fittings are constructed out of type 316L stainless steel
- Insulated with CFC-free 2 in THK expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam
- Outer shell is constructed out of durable grey plastic
- 3/4 in FNPT temperature and pressure relief valve connection
- Stainless steel well for insertion of tank sensor or aquastat
- Removable top clean out hatch
- Recirculation connection
Warranty
At Ideal Heating NA, we've got you covered with our comprehensive warranty program. This program is designed to give you peace of mind and protect your investment.
We offer a Lifetime tank assembly warranty, so you can rely on your system for years to come. Ideal Heating NA stands behind the quality of our products.
Our warranty program also includes 6-year coverage for components and parts, so you can rest assured that any issues will be addressed quickly. This coverage is a testament to our commitment to quality.
In addition to these warranties, we provide a 3-year labor allowance, which covers the cost of labor for any necessary repairs. This is a valuable benefit that can save you money and hassle.
Benefits and Considerations
Indirect water heaters are a great choice for efficient hot water heating. They're 99.9% efficient, compared to conventional heaters which are only about 50% efficient.
One of the biggest advantages of indirect water heaters is that they don't require a separate gas line, which can save you money and space. Since they use the connected boiler's energy, you only need one gas line for both the boiler and water heater.
Indirect-fired water heaters also have no mechanical parts that can go wrong, making them a low-maintenance option. And with their durable stainless steel composition, they can last for decades.
Recommended read: Rain Gutter Heat Cable
Indirect-Fired vs Conventional
Indirect-fired water heaters are a game-changer when it comes to efficiency. They're 99.9% efficient, compared to conventional heaters which are only about 50% efficient.
Conventional heaters waste a significant amount of energy, with $50 out of every $100 spent on gas going out through the chimney.
An indirect-fired water heater, on the other hand, uses the energy from its connected boiler, eliminating the need for a separate gas line. This is a major advantage, especially during the winter when both the boiler and water heater are in use.
For another approach, see: Hot Water Heaters Located
Seasonal Energy Savings
In some parts of the country, you can turn on the boiler in October and turn it off in April, and the indirect-fired water heater takes care of your domestic hot water during that time.
Having a boiler that also heats your domestic water means you only need one system for both home heating and hot water.
For about six months a year, your boiler is already operating to heat your house, so it's not actually a downside that it also heats your water during that time.
In the summer, the boiler will still turn on to heat the indirect hot water heater, even though you don't need it to heat your house.
This might seem like a drawback, but a high efficiency/modulating boiler will only use a fraction of its capacity, in this case, 25,000 BTU, which is still a highly efficient system.
Most indirect-fired water heaters come with a stainless steel tank that's well-insulated with a thermal plastic jacket, keeping the water warm for longer, regardless of the season.
Consider reading: How to Heat Water Pipes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of indirect water heaters?
Indirect water heaters have two main disadvantages: they require more space and can increase operating costs due to the need for larger storage tanks and more frequent use of external heating systems.
What is the life expectancy of an indirect water heater?
An indirect water heater can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance, making it a long-lasting and reliable option for your home.
Featured Images: pexels.com


