Tankless Technology from Rheem Proving a More Efficient Way to Heat Both the Air and Water

Online, April 25, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Contractors and home owners now have an even more energy-efficient option to introduce tankless technology into a home with the Rheem Integrated Heating & Water Heating System's newest design feature. The company announced an upgraded version of its hydronic air handler, a key component of the system, equipped with a highly-efficient permanent magnet powered motor.

When a Rheem tankless gas water heater is used together with the hydronic air handler as part of the Rheem Integrated Heating & Water Heating System, hot water is circulated through the air handler and is then re-circulated back to the tankless water heater. This pairing of products provides a soft, comfortable heat to the home while maintaining comfortable humidity levels regardless of the climate, with the added benefit of energy savings provided by the tankless technology.

"Now that we've upgraded the efficiency of the Rheem Hydronic Air Handler's motor, timing is ripe for contractors and plumbers to use this product to expand offerings and, ultimately, increase business," said Sal Brunetto, corporate national accounts manager, Rheem.

The redesigned, AHRI-certified hydronic air handler offers innovative features that translate into energy savings to the homeowner and ease of installation and handling to the contractor. The air handler is compatible with Rheem's selected high-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps and can be used to create a home comfort system that meets ENERGY STAR® standards.

In addition, the redesigned Rheem Hydronic Air Handler, when combined with the Rheem Prestige™ Series Condensing Tankless Water Heater, which operates at 94 percent efficiency, offers not only energy savings but also precise temperature control. Such integrated heating system is comparable to a 90+ percent efficient furnace and the benefits of the combustion modulation technology of the tankless water heater works in tandem with the air handler's 11 to 100 percent combustion modulation formula to electronically adjust the burner's flame size and provide the optimal temperature for the home.

The new design also aligns with the space-saving concept of the tankless technology. With a low-profile, 34-inch design and an easy-access panel, contractors will find it more maneuverable and easy to service, with the controls, blower and motor all in one place. The unit also features an integrated control board with diagnostics that manage all operational functions and the control board also provides hook-ups for a humidifier and an electronic air cleaner. No gas or vent connections are necessary, which leads to greater installation flexibility and lower costs.

"In the recent down economy, we've seen savvy mechanical contractors and plumbers identify new avenues for business. The Rheem Integrated Heating & Water Heating System has become a go-to product for mechanical contractors to enter the tankless water heating space and for plumbers to enter the residential heating market," Brunetto added.

The Integrated Heating and Water Heating System has proven to be the perfect solution in climates where heat pump systems are used to further improve energy efficiency and conservation. In 2012, California's South Coast Air Quality Management Department (SCAQMD) implemented a new rule that reduces the NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions allowed from tankless water heaters to 14 nanograms per Joule of heat output. Rheem offers a comprehensive selection of tankless water heaters that meet SCAQMD's new requirement.

For more information on the Rheem Hydronic Air Handler, Rheem Prestige™ Series Condensing Tankless Water Heater and the Rheem Integrated Heating & Water Heating System, please visit http://www.rheem.com. Contractors using Rheem's Apple iPad app® can also find information regarding the air handler on the app.

Related Media