Is an Instahot Water Heater Right for You? What You Need to Know Before Installing

Instahot water heaters, also known as tankless water heaters, have become a popular solution for many homeowners seeking instant hot water on demand. While the benefits of these systems are undeniable, there's a crucial consideration that often gets overlooked: the electrical capacity of your home.

At Gloudeman Electric, we've encountered numerous instances where homeowners rush into installing an instahot water heater without considering the electrical implications. We'll share a story that underscores the importance of having your electrical system assessed before making the switch.

A few months ago, we received a call from a distressed homeowner experiencing frequent breaker tripping and electrical issues. Upon arriving at the property, we discovered that they had recently installed an instahot water heater. However, upon inspection, it was evident that their electrical panel was unable to handle the increased amperage demands of the new appliance.

This scenario is not uncommon. Instahot water heaters draw a significant amount of power, often requiring substantial electrical capacity. Without proper assessment and potentially upgrading your electrical panel first, you could be setting yourself up for a host of problems, including frequent breaker trips, overheating, and even electrical hazards.

Now, let's delve into the benefits of instahot water heaters.

1. Endless Hot Water: Unlike traditional water heaters that store hot water in a tank, instahot water heaters heat water on demand, providing a continuous supply of hot water for your household needs.

2. Energy Efficiency: Instahot water heaters only heat water when needed, eliminating standby heat loss common in traditional tank heaters. This efficiency can lead to lower energy bills over time.

3. Space Saving: Tankless water heaters are compact and can be installed in smaller spaces, freeing up valuable square footage in your home.

4. Longevity: With proper maintenance, instahot water heaters can have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank heaters, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
   

While these benefits are enticing, it's crucial to approach the decision to install an instahot water heater with caution. Before making any commitments, consult with a licensed electrician to assess your home's electrical capacity. Upgrading your electrical system, if necessary, ensures a safe and seamless transition to your new water heating solution.

At Gloudeman Electric, we're committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our customers. We can assess your electrical system, recommend necessary upgrades, and run the electrical for your instahot water heater with precision and care.

In conclusion, while instahot water heaters offer numerous benefits, they're not a one-size-fits-all solution. Before taking the plunge, consult with an electrician to ensure your home is equipped to handle the electrical demands of this modern convenience. Don't let electrical issues dampen the joy of instant hot water—let us help you make the switch safely and seamlessly.

Andrew Gloudeman

Lead Electrician

Gloudeman Electric, LLC

Navigating Electric Vehicle Charger Quotes: Why Price Isn't Everything

As the world moves towards sustainability and eco-friendly solutions, electric vehicles (EVs) have surged in popularity. With this rise, the need for reliable and efficient electric vehicle chargers has become paramount. However, when it comes to installing an EV charger, one may encounter a wide range of quotes from electricians, and we know this can be confusing.

While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, there are crucial factors to consider beyond price alone. Read on to see what could result in the differences in quotes (and why picking the lowest quote may not be the best).

In the following article, we hope to equip you with questions to ask the next time you get multiple EV charger quotes before choosing an installer.

Quality vs. Cost: The Dilemma

When seeking quotes for an electric vehicle charger installation, it's not uncommon to encounter significant disparities in pricing. At first glance, opting for the lowest bid might seem like a prudent financial decision. However, it's essential to delve deeper into what influences these price variations.

1. Licensing and Credentials

One of the primary reasons for the fluctuation in quotes is the difference in the skill and qualifications of the electricians. Licensed electricians undergo rigorous training and certification processes to ensure they possess the necessary expertise to handle complex electrical tasks safely. Conversely, unlicensed electricians may offer cheaper rates but lack the proper training and credentials, putting your safety and the integrity of the installation at risk. Remember that a Business License and an Electrical License are two very different licenses, and it's important to clarify which one (they should have both) the installer has if they say they're "licensed."

An unlicensed electrician may not know that not all EV chargers come with built in GFI protection, or how to calculate amperage need (a 50 amp charger doesn't only need a 50 amp circuit, but needs a 60 amp circuit because of something called "continuous load").

Question to ask: Do you have an electrical license and can I see it or have the number?

2. Material Quality

Another factor that can affect the pricing is the quality of materials used in the installation. Copper wiring is the industry standard for electrical work due to its superior conductivity and durability. However, some less scrupulous installers may opt for cheaper alternatives like aluminum wiring to cut costs. While this might initially reduce the quote, aluminum wiring is less efficient and cannot handle as high amperage as copper, potentially leading to performance issues and safety hazards in the long run.

Question to ask: What kind of wire do you plan to run (copper or aluminum) and will you be providing GFI protection?

3. Skill and Expertise

The complexity of EV charger installations requires a certain level of skill and expertise. Electricians with more experience and specialized knowledge in this area may command higher rates, but their proficiency can ensure a smooth and reliable installation process. Conversely, inexperienced or less skilled electricians may offer lower quotes but could make errors that compromise the functionality and safety of the charger.

Question to ask: How many years of experience does the technician who will actually be doing the work have? Has he/she done a lot of EV charger installations?

4. Contractor Liability Insurance

Contractor liability insurance is another critical aspect to consider when evaluating quotes for EV charger installations. Licensed and reputable electricians typically carry liability insurance to protect both themselves and their clients in the event of accidents, property damage, or injuries during the installation process. While this insurance provides essential coverage and peace of mind, it also contributes to the overall cost of the installation. Electricians who prioritize safety and professionalism by investing in liability insurance may have slightly higher quotes, but this additional expense reflects their commitment to protecting you and your property throughout the installation process. Ultimately, the added protection offered by contractor liability insurance is well worth the investment, safeguarding you from potential liabilities and ensuring a smooth and worry-free installation experience.

Question to ask: Does your company carry liability insurance?

Why Cheaper Isn't Always Better: A Cautionary Tale

At Gloudeman Electric, we recently encountered a situation that illustrates the potential risks of prioritizing cost over quality. We were called to a customer's house to inspect an electric vehicle charger installation carried out by another company. Upon examination, we discovered that the installer had used aluminum wiring instead of copper, unbeknownst to the customer. This shortcut not only compromised the performance of the charger but also posed significant safety concerns.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Quality and Safety

When it comes to electric vehicle charger installations, prioritizing quality and safety should always take precedence. While opting for the cheapest quote may seem appealing initially, it can lead to subpar results and potentially hazardous situations down the line.

The most important thing is to make an informed decision. Ask the questions, get the info, and choose the best installer for you. Does that happen to be the least expensive one? Well, that's good luck! But, it may not work out that way. Our goal here is to educate and give people the best shot at getting both great value and great quality, and to feel confident in their electrical choices.

At Gloudeman Electric, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and ensuring that every installation meets the highest standards of quality and safety. When you choose us for your EV charger installation needs, you can rest assured that you're investing in reliability, efficiency, and peace of mind for years to come.

Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day.

Andrew Gloudeman & Team

Double Tapped Neutrals & What To Do About Them

Are you familiar with this common inspection list item?

You may have heard the term "double tapped neutrals" before, especially if you have had an inspection done in the selling or purchasing process of your home. But what does that term mean and why is it a problem? In this blog post, we will explain what double tapped neutrals are, what hazards they can bring, and what steps you should take to ensure the safety of your home when it comes to this situation.

What are double tapped neutrals?

Example of double tapped neutrals. Notice the discoloring on the double tapped white (neutral) wires from overheating.

A double tapped neutral is a condition where two or more neutral wires are connected to the same screw or terminal on the neutral bus bar in the electric panel¹. The neutral bus bar is a metal strip that distributes the neutral current to the circuits in the panel. You can see an example of double tapped neutrals in the picture here where multiple wires are under the same screw. Notice the discoloring caused by overheating.

Why are double tapped neutrals dangerous?

Double tapped neutrals are a violation of the National Electric Code (NEC), which has prohibited this practice since 2002¹. There are several reasons why double tapped neutrals are unsafe and should be avoided:

- Double tapped neutrals can cause loose connections, which can lead to overheating, arcing, and fire¹.

- Double tapped neutrals can interfere with the proper functioning of the circuit breakers, which are designed to protect the circuits from overloads and short circuits.

- Double tapped neutrals can create an imbalance in the electrical system, which can affect the voltage and current levels and damage the appliances and devices.

What should you do about it?

If you suspect or discover that you have double tapped neutrals in your electric panel, you should contact a licensed electrician as soon as possible to correct the issue. A qualified electrician will be able to inspect your panel and perform the necessary repairs. Some of the possible solutions are:

- Moving the extra wires to another terminal on the neutral bus bar, if there is enough space.

- Installing a new neutral bus bar.

Do not attempt to fix double tapped neutrals yourself, as this can be dangerous and illegal. Only a licensed electrician can ensure that your electric panel is safe and compliant with the NEC.

Conclusion

Double tapped neutrals are a common and serious electrical problem that can pose a fire hazard and damage your electrical system. If you have an older home or an amateur installation, you may have double tapped neutrals in your electric panel. To prevent any potential risks, you should hire a professional electrician to inspect and fix your panel. At Gloudeman Electric, we have the experience and expertise to handle any electric panel issues, including double tapped neutrals. Contact us today for a free remote estimate. We are here to help you with all your electric needs.

(1) Double Tapped Neutrals: This Isn't A New Rule - Structure Tech Home .... https://structuretech.com/double-tapped-neutrals/.

(2) Why are Double Tapped Neutrals a Problem?. https://nonprofithomeinspections.org/why-are-double-tapped-neutrals-a-problem/.