Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: hillbilly1, Location: North Georgia mountains
Asked on: Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at 7:38 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 11:41 am EDT
Question: Got a call today from one of the boss’s friends today. He owns a hotel converted to low income apartments. He wanted me to come out and look at one of the apartments he had a contractor remodel. They changed the tank type water heater to a tankless. Anyway, he was unhappy with their work and fired them after the first apartment. I asked him what kind and size of tankless did they install? He said he thought it was a 17 kw. I told him that could be a problem, the apartments have only a 100 amp single phase service, and are totally electric! Had him send me a picture of the panel, and it confirmed what I thought! He asked what we needed to do to fix it? Oh, just change out the entire service and meter pack, replace every panel and feeder. Nothing major, LOL! (Two story, 40 units)
Electrical Service Upgrade Requirements
To accommodate the increased electrical demand of a 17 kW tankless water heater in a totally electric apartment complex with 100 amp service, a significant electrical service upgrade is required.
Steps Involved
1.
Upgrade Service and Meter Pack
Replace the existing 100 amp service with a 200 amp or larger service. This includes installing a new meter pack and service entrance conductors.2.
Replace Main Panel and Feeders
Replace the existing main electrical panel with a 200 amp panel or larger. Additionally, all feeder circuits (lines supplying electricity to different sections of the building) must be upgraded to handle the increased current draw.3.
Sub-Panels
If there are any sub-panels in the building, they should also be upgraded to handle the additional load.4.
Wiring
All wiring throughout the building may need to be replaced or upgraded to meet the new electrical demands.
Implications and Considerations
This upgrade is a major undertaking that will require significant time, effort, and expense. It may involve disruptions to electrical service during the upgrade process. The cost of the upgrade will vary depending on the size of the building and the complexity of the electrical system.
Recommendation
Advise the building owner that the installation of a 17 kW tankless water heater in a 100 amp service is not feasible and would require a substantial electrical service upgrade. Discuss the following options:
Reduce Water Heater Size
Install a smaller tankless water heater (e.g., 12 kW) that can operate within the existing electrical capacity.*
Consider Other Hot Water Solutions: Explore alternative hot water solutions, such as solar water heating or a hybrid water heater, that are more compatible with the existing electrical service. Flag for review