Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Bosch 2700ES Vs. Bosch Pro 715ES - A Comparison

The Bosch AquaStar 2700ES tankless hot water heater is similar in many respects to the Bosch Pro 715ES tankless hot water heater.


They are both 199,000 BTU tankless water heaters and they both sit in the same chassis or case - the new "World 2" case.

Both have modulating gas valves and have the same .65 GPM minimum activation rate.

There are a few key differences between the two heaters, though.

One key difference is that the Bosch 2700ES comes with built-in freeze protection. This freeze protection is meant to keep the heater from freezing in locatons that experience occasional overnight freezes. The Bosch Pro 715ES does not come with this freeze protection -- but it is an optional accessory that you can pay extra for.

Another difference between these two heaters is the water filter.

In the Bosch 2700ES tankless hot water heater the water filter comes with the heater and is very easily accessible without having to even remove the cover. As you can see from this image, (1) is the water filter.

Bosch recommends that you inspect and clean the water filter once per year as part of your annual maintenance of the heater.

With the Bosch Pro 715ES, the water filter is an optional accessory - albeit a highly recommended accessory!

The Bosch Pro 715ES is a wholesale product that is meant to be sold directly to an installer. It is designed to be professionally installed. As such, it comes with a 15 year warranty. The Bosch 2700ES is a retail product that is meant to be sold directly to home owners and it comes with a 12 year warranty.

Steve

Monday, November 30, 2009

Cyber Monday Bosch Tankless Water Heater Sale

Today is Cyber Monday!

GlobalTowne.com is offering 10% off all Bosch tankless water heaters, vent kits, individual pieces of Z-Flex stainless steel venting, Flow-Aide Descaler Kits and Webstone isolation valve kits.

In fact, we are offering 10% off everything we sell!

This is our biggest sale of the year and it is TODAY ONLY - until midnight ET, November 30, 2009!

Just enter Promotional Code CYBERMONDAY at checkout to get your 10% off savings!

Please note that some items on our online store show our regular low price crossed out with the Cyber Monday 10% off sale price already displayed.

Steve

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Tankless Water Heater Incentives and Rebates

At GlobalTowne we want to help our customers save every penny they can on purchases of Bosch Tankless Water Heaters.



You may also qualify for additional rebates that are available in the US through your Energy Star partners. Please see the list of Special Offers and Rebates available from Energy Star Partners.

In the United States you can also review the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). This database may help you identify additional incentives that are available at your state or local government levels.

In Canada your new Bosch Tankless Water Heater may also qualify you for a Canadian Tax Rebate.

Going tankless with Bosch will save you on your gas, propane or electric utility bills. With these additional incentives available now there has never been a better time to Go Tankless!

Steve

Friday, November 20, 2009

Reconditioned Bosch Tankless Water Heaters

GlobalTowne sells factory-reconditioned Bosch Tankless Water Heaters. Please call us at 888.726.9752 for pricing.

All Bosch reconditioned tankless water heaters are refurbished and certified by Bosch. They carry the full Bosch warranty. Since we can sell these certified, factory-reconditioned tankless heaters to you at lower costs, you can realize significant cost savings.

Factory-refurbished tankless water heaters may have small dents or dings. However, Bosch Technical Support will provide you with the same level of technical support and customer service as if you had purchased a brand new tankless water heater. There is no risk when purchasing these "like new" tankless water heaters!

Supplies are limited by the speed at which Bosch is able to recondition the water heaters, so not every model is available at any given time.

Just give us a call and we will let you know if we have the reconditioned Bosch tankless water heater in stock that you desire.

Steve


Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Z-Flex 3" Termination Options for Bosch 2700ES/2400ES Tankless Water Heaters

We stock the full line of Z-Flex Z-Vent 3" and 4" stainless steel vent pipe. There are a variety of termination options for both the 3" and 4" venting.

All of our termination pieces come with a built-in bird screen to ensure that birds and other critters cannot get into your venting system.

The AQ3ES Side Wall Vent Kit for the Bosch 2700ES and 2400ES tankless water heaters comes with the 3" Termination Box with a 10" sleeve (2SVSTB03). This special OEM part is exactly the same as the Z-Flex part 2SVSRTF03. The 2SVSTB03 and the 2SVSRTF03 can both also be used for intake air.





If you have vinyl siding then you do not want to use the 2SVSTB03 or 2SVSRTF03 Termination Box as the hot exhaust gases may melt your vinyl siding. The recommended part for vinyl siding is the 3" Termination Hood (2SVSHTX03). This part can also be used for intake air.

We also sell the 3" Termination Hood with Damper (2SVSHTD03), but this part is not approved for either the Bosch 2700ES or Bosch 2400ES tankless heaters. The concern is that if the damper gets frozen shut then the exhaust gases cannot escape. The 3" Termination Hood with Damper cannot ever be used for intake air!



We carry the 3" Termination Coupling (2SVSTPF03). This will exhaust the gases straight out from your house, so safety is a concern when using this part for exhaust. This part can be used for either exhaust or intake.




The 3" Termination Tee (2SVSTTF03) exhausts the gases out in two directions. This part can also be used for intake air.


The 3" Termination Elbow (2SVSTEX0390) will shoot the exhaust gases out in a single direction. This part can also be used for intake air.

The Z-Flex Z-Vent 4" stainless steel vent pipe part numbers are as follows:
  • 4" Termination Box 2SVSRTF04
  • 4" Termination Hood 2SVSHTX04
  • 4" Termination Hood with Damper 2SVSHTD04
  • 4" Termination Coupling 2SVSTPF04
  • 4" Termination Tee 2SVSTTF04
  • 4" Termination Elbow 2SVSTEX0490
Steve

Monday, October 19, 2009

Noritz 0751 Series Residential Tankless Water Heater

Today we received a call from a customer who was looking for 4" stainless steel vent pipe for his Noritz 0751 Series Residential Tankless Water Heater.

Noritz VT4-TL Sealed Combustion Long Vent TerminationHe wanted to purchase Z-Flex vent pipe and wanted to know the correct venting adaptor for this heater. He also wanted to know how to connect the Z-Flex exhaust to his Noritz VT4-TL Sealed Combustion Long Vent Termination.



The correct Z-Flex adaptor for the Noritz 751M-DV tankless water heater is the 4" Noritz Adaptor (2SVWA04). This adaptor connects directly to the heater and allows you to exhaust with Z-Flex 4" stainless steel vent pipe.





The Z-Flex Stainless Steel Vent Pipe connects directly to the Noritz VT4-TL Sealed Combustion Long Vent Termination.

Steve

Thursday, October 15, 2009

ESHCK Concentric Vent Kit for Bosch 2700ES / 2400ES

Bosch has recently approved the ESHCK Concentric Vent Kit for the Bosch AquaStar 2700ES, 2400ES and 715ES tankless water heaters.

The ESHCK side wall concentric vent kit is actually a shell piece of stainless steel venting that will work with vent pipe manufactured by Z-Flex, ProTech Industries or Heat-Fab. (Of course, we always recommend using Z-Flex stainless steel AL29-4C vent pipe.)

Part number ESHCK is a 5" diameter shell through which you can stick a 3" x 3' piece of stainless steel vent pipe. This piece of straight pipe is terminated by either a Termination Tee or a Termination Elbow. The ESHCK shell that fits around this straight pipe creates the air intake vent pipe.

The air intake from the Bosch 2700ES, 2400ES or 715ES tankless water heater can be run using PVC and connects directly to the ESHCK. The air intake port on the ESHCK can be rotated 360 degrees around the ESHCK to bring the combustion air in from any angle. Bosch recommends that you bring the air in from the top, particularly in areas that are prone to freezing.



The ESHCK is actually 20" long, but when you stick the 3" x 3' pipe and the termination piece through the ESHCK then the total length of the ESHCK Vent Kit is about 41" long. When you add the required 3" x 90 degree elbow the total length is about 47" long. The square flashing that rests against the outside wall is 8" square.

Bosch requires that the termination tee or termination elbow be a full 12" away from your exterior wall. This is meant to ensure that the exhaust air does not get recylcled back through the air intake. Don't go beyone the 12" either as this may increase your potential for condensation in the exposed pipe section.

We sell a complete kit called the ESHCK-FULL-KIT Concentric Vent Kit that includes the ESHCK shell, a 3" x 90 degree elbow, a 3" x 3' stick of pipe and a termination tee.

Please note that this concentric vent kit will protrude quite a bit through the inside wall making it very difficult for you to mount the tankless water heater on the same wall that you are venting out of. The easiest way to use this ESHCK concentric vent kit is to mount your tankless water heater on a wall that is perpendicular from the wall that you are venting out of.

With this configuration, you will need a 90 degree elbow coming off of your water heater. Then we recommend using a horizontal drain pipe to catch any condensate that gets generated. Then you may need additoinal straight pipe to connect up to the ESHCK concentric vent kit which protrudes from the wall.

If you do want to do and "up and out" venting through the same wall you mount the heater on with the ESHCK then you will need to install your 2700ES or 2400ES tankless water heater out away from the wall. This will help you avoid using an excessive number of 90 degree elbows.

One of the big advantages of using the ESHCK concentric vent kit is that you only have to have a single hole through your exterior wall. This may greatly reduce your installation costs if you have a difficult wall to drill through, such as a thick stone wall.

Another advantage of using the concentric vent kit is that for some installations it is impossible to meet the 3' distance requirement between the exhaust and the air intake.

Aesthetically it may also be more desireable to have a single vent through your outside wall.

Please see the Bosch 2700ES Installation Manual or the 2400ES Installation Manual for the full details of installing the ESHCK Concentric Vent Kit.

Steve

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Propane and Propane Tankless Water Heaters

There has never been a better time for propane to fuel American homes. Homeowners are looking for smart approaches to enhancing home enjoyment and value while minimizing environmental impact. Whether providing an instant flame for gourmet cooking or offering an endless supply of hot water in the shower or backyard pool, propane is helping millions of American families enjoy richer, more comfortable lives with less impact on the planet. And the lower cost of operation means homeowners will be rewarded for a smart choice each month with lower energy bills. Getting more for less while helping the environment - that’s a message worth sharing.


Fact: Propane delivers instant hot water with a lighter impact on the environment.

  • Propane tankless water heaters produce 61 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric tankless models.1
  • Propane tankless water heaters save families an average of 10 to 20 percent of their daily water use.2
  • Propane tankless water heaters reduce standby energy loss by up to 20 percent compared with tank water heaters.2
  • Propane tankless water heaters cost approximately 60 percent less to operate than tank water heaters.2
  • Propane tankless water heaters are Energy Star qualified for efficiency; electric tankless water heaters are not.
Note: Using any kind of Tankless Water Heater is better for the environment than using a tank water heater. And even though electric tank water heaters are not energy star rated, that are significantly more environmentally friendly and less costly to operate than even Energy Star rated electric TANK water heaters.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Bosch Tankless Approval Codes/National Listings

All Bosch Gas Tankless Water Heaters are Compliant with ASHRAE 90.1 and are CSA design certified.

All Bosch Electric Tankless Water Heaters and Electric Mini-tanks are UL and cUL approved.

Please visit:  www.bosch-climate.us for all other codes and cerifications.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Replacing Legacy Bosch Tankless Heaters

We have just started getting some calls from customers who are looking to replace some of the original Commercial Bosch Tankless Water Heaters that were introduced into the market 20 years ago.

If you are looking to replace any of the following Bosch On-Demand Water Heaters, please give us a call at 888.726.9752 so we can help you match your heater up with its current replacement model:
  • Bosch WR400-1K (117,000 BTU, Pilot Light)
  • Bosch WR400-3K (B) (117,000 BTU, Electronic Ignition)
  • Bosch WR400-5K (117,000 BTU, Pilot Light)
  • Bosch WR400-7K (117,000 BTU, Hydro Ignition)
  • Bosch WR430-3KV (125,000 BTU, Electronic Ignition)
  • Bosch WR125-K (125,000 BTU, Pilot Light)

Steve

Monday, June 29, 2009

Keltech Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Keltech Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Electric tankless water heaters are an alternative water heating solution compared to the traditional boiler or tank. In a Keltech tankless water heater, water is quickly heated to temperature as it passes through the copper and brass constructed heater core. Tankless water heaters are also referred to as “on-demand,” “in-line” or “booster” water heaters.

The Keltech Tankless Advantage
  1. Precise Temperature Control Keltech water heating solutions can be programmed to meet a specific temperature range. If needed, Keltech can also heat water precisely to within +/- 1 degree for temperature sensitive applications. Keltech safety shower heaters and eyewash heaters quickly reach ANSI compliant tepid water temperatures.
  2. Energy EfficientWater is heated only when needed. Unlike a boiler, there is no need to heat water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That saves money, energy and water.
  3. Compact SizeKeltech tankless water heating solutions are modular and take up a fraction of the space compared to a boiler.
  4. Built to LastKeltech water heaters feature quality control systems and premium materials like copper and brass to meet the most demanding conditions.
Standard Water Heating Applications
Keltech’s commercial grade tankless water heaters and fluid heating solutions are built for commercial and industrial process heating applications. Keltech heaters are used in applications as varied as:

• Safety shower and emergency eyewash applications
• Large industrial process heating
• Sporadic water heating for laboratories
• Light industrial process heating
• Aircraft hot water delivery systems
• Residential systems
• De-ionized water heating solutions
• Corrosive fluid heating protection systems
• Non-flammable fluid heating applications
• Other on-demand water heating applications
• Bio-diesel vegetable oil heating at 230°F
• Removing residue and oils from machine parts
• Circuit board flux removal
• Legionella prevention
• ANSI compliant safety shower heaters and systems
• ANSI compliant emergency eyewash heaters

Tankless Water Heaters and Water Heating Solutions for Extreme Environments

Freeze ProtectionWater heating solutions can be freeze protected to perform when air temperatures get as cold as -30°F.

Explosion Proof
Keltech also manufactures Class 1 Div 2 explosion proof solutions for highly volatile or flammable areas where water or chemicals must be heated.

NEMA 4x Enclosures
Keltech also produces water heaters that can be sealed in NEMA 4x enclosures to protect the investment from corrosive conditions and hostile environments.

Specialty ApplicationsKeltech also engineers and manufactures custom built tankless water heating solutions that are capable of heating:

• De-ionized Water
• Reverse Osmosis Fluids
• Corrosive Fluids
• Non-Flammable Fluids

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Determining Your Water Flow Rate for Tankless Water Heaters

Selecting tankless hot water heaters isn't very difficult. Select one based on the maximum amount of hot water to meet your peak demand.

Selecting Tankless Water Heaters

Selecting tankless hot water heaters isn't very difficult. Select one based on the maximum amount of hot water to meet your peak demand. Use the following assumptions on flow for various appliances to find the size of unit that is right for your purposes: Faucets: 1.0 gallons (3.78 liters) to 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) per minute.

Low-flow showerheads: 1.0 gallons (3.78 liters) to 2 gallons (7.57 liters) per minute. Older standard shower heads: 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) to 3.0 gallons (11.36 liters) per minute.

Clothes washers and dishwashers: 1 gallon (3.79 liters) to 2 gallons (7.57 liters) per minute.

Unless you know otherwise, assume that the incoming temperature is 55° F (12.78° C). You will want your water heated to 110° F (43.33° C) for most uses. To determine how much of a temperature rise you need, subtract the incoming temperature from the desired output temperature. In this example, the needed rise is 55° F (12.78° C).

List the number of hot water devices you expect to have open at any one time, and add up their flow rates. This is the desired flow rate for the heater. Selecting a tankless water heater is nearly impossible without knowing the flow rate you need.

As an example, assume the following conditions: One hot faucet open with a flow rate of 1.0 gallons (3.79 liters) per minute. One person bathing using a shower head with a flow rate of 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) per minute. Add the two flow rates together. If the inlet water temperature is 55° F (12.78° C), the needed flow rate through the heater would need to be no greater than 3.5 gallons (13.25 liters) per minute. Faster flow rates or cooler inlet temperatures will reduce the temperature at the most distant faucet.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Replacements for Bosch Tankless Heat Exchangers

Today we sold and shipped a replacement heat exchanger for a Bosch 125VP tankless water heater.

This customer told me that he loved his Bosch water heater and has had it for -- get this -- 20 years!

He told me that he has maintained it regularly with a descaling solution and that he loves his water heater! We breifly discussed the merits of purchasing a new Bosch tankless water heater, but he told me that he is very happy with the heater he has.

Global Pro Tankless Supply can supply customers with replacement heat exchangers for many of the older model tankless water heaters. Just give us a call and we can get you a quote on any of the following legacy Bosch AquaStar heaters:

Bosch AquaStar 38B
Bosch AquaStar 125B
Bosch AquaStar 125BL
Bosch AquaStar 125BS
Bosch AquaStar 125HX
Bosch AquaStar 125X
Bosch AquaStar 250SX
Bosch AquaStar 250SXO
Bosch AquaStar 240FX
Bosch AquaStar 80VP
Bosch AquaStar 125VP
Bosch AquaStar 170VP

Steve

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Installing Un-Sealed Bosch Tankless Water Heaters in Enclosed Occupied Spaces

Installation of un-sealed gas utilization equipment in bedrooms, bathrooms or any occupied rooms with doors normally kept closed is prohibited by standards set forth in the National Fuel Gas Code. These standards conform to all known building codes throughout North America and are included in your product installation manual.

Oxygen deprivation and carbon monoxide poisoning are serious health risks that can result from such installations, due largely to the lack of combustion and ventilation air present in enclosed spaces. Premature appliance failure is also a consequence of lack of combustion and ventilation air. For details pertaining to combustion and ventilation air requirements for your Bosch water heater, please refer to the product installation manual or contact a qualified service agency. Failure to properly install Bosch water heaters voids all warranties, written or implied.

If your un-sealed Bosch tankless water heater is installed in a bathroom, bedroom or enclosed occupied space, you are strongly urged you to have the unit relocated and its installation inspected by a qualified gas service agency.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Bosch 1000P/1600P/1600H Service Bulletins

Bosch has released a series of Technical Service Bulletins for the Bosch 1000P, Bosch 1600P and Bosch 1600H tankless water heaters. These Technical Service Bulletins can be extremely helpful for installers and home owners who are installing the Bosch 1000P, Bosch 1600P and Bosch 1600H gas tankless water heaters.

Some of these Service Bulletins apply only to the Bosch AquaStar 1600H. Many, however, also apply to the Bosch 260PN, 425PN and 425HN tankless water heaters. See the Models listed in the header of each Service Bulletin to determine if the bulletin applies to your specific Bosch water heater.

Bosch 1000P, Bosch 1600P and Bosch 1600H Technical Service Bulletins: Steve

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Bosch 2400ES/2700ES Service Bulletins

Bosch has released a series of Technical Service Bulletins for the Bosch 2400ES and Bosch 2700ES tankless water heaters. These Technical Service Bulletins can be extremely helpful for installers and home owners who are installing the Bosch AquaStar 2400ES or Bosch AquaStar 2700ES gas tankless water heaters.

Many of these Bosch Service Bulletins also apply to the Bosch Pro 715ES, C800ES, C920ES, C920ESC tankless water heaters. See the Models listed in the header of each Service Bulletin to determine if the bulletin applies to your specific Bosch water heater.

Bosch 2400ES and Bosch 2700ES Technical Service Bulletins:
Steve

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Bosch Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Clearances

Question: The specifications for installing a Bosch outdoor tankless water heater call for a minimum 4' clearance from any doors or windows. Why is this? And, do all manufacturer's have to adhere to this same standard?

Answer: The 4 foot figure is based on code. National Fuel Gas Code says (Section 10.8.2): “A mechanical draft venting system of other than direct vent type shall terminate at least 4 ft below, 4 ft horizontally from, or 1 ft above any door, operable window, or gravity air inlet into any building.”

And, yes, all manufacturer's of outdoor tankless water heaters must adhere to this same National Fuel Gas Code.


Monday, June 8, 2009

Energy Factor vs. Thermal Efficiency for Tankless Water Heaters

Thermal Efficiency only takes into account (essentially) how effectively you're burning fuel or turning fuel into heat. The Energy Factor then also takes into account things such as standby heat losses in a tank. So a tank may sometimes burn fuel efficiently but then lose some of that heat at standby. The Energy Factor is always going to be equal to or less than the efficiency.

The term ‘Energy Factor’ characterizes the efficiency of both tank and tankless water heaters. The Energy Factor is the portion of the energy going into the water heater that gets turned into usable hot water under average conditions. It takes into account heat loss through the walls of the tank, up the flue, and in combustion. The higher the Energy Factor, the more efficient the heater.

Because tankless water heaters don’t have the losses associated with tanks, their Energy Factors are normally higher (although well-insulated, ultra-efficient tank heaters also have high Energy Factors). Energy Factors for gas tankless water heaters range from around 0.69 to 0.84, compared with 0.55 for a conventional tank and 0.86 for an ultra-efficient tank heaters.

Conventional electric tank water heaters have an Energy Factor of about 0.87 compared with 0.91 for an ultra-efficient tank and 0.98 for electric tankless heaters.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

NyOil Odorless Mineral Oil for Lubricating & Cleaning

NyOil Odorless Mineral Oil for Lubricating and CleaningNyOil is an all-purpose crystal clear, odorless highly-refined mineral oil for lubricating, polishing, cleaning and preventing rust. Nyoil stands the test of time. Formulated nearly 100 years ago, it remains the most highly refined oil ever produced and it is a "Green" product.

Nye Oil works great on hand tools and power tools, camping equipment, firearms, fishing reels, knives, hobby trains and planes, roller blades, fitness equipment, bicycles, squeeky door hinges, locks, playground toys, garden tools, appliances, cameras and much more!

For general-purpose lubrication - in the home, office, workshop, garage or out in the field - you'll find thousands of ways to use Nye Lubricating Oil, the lubricant that's proven itself for 100 years.

Features:

  • Odorless - No other product on the market can make this claim

  • Colorless - non-staining and no unsightly messes

  • Will not gum - does not form sludge like other mineral-oil products

  • Wide serviceable temperature range - excellent for lubricating machinery that must operate at both high and low temperatures.

  • Nyoil resists cold, lubricating to temperatures as low as 25 degress F below 0.

  • Nyoil withstands heat, lubricating to temperatures over 220 degress F.

  • Non-hazardous - non-toxic, additive-free and environmentally friendly lubricant

  • Includes snap-on cap to prevent dripping. 4 oz bottle
Steve

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Ariston Replacement Parts

[UPDATED 12/14/2018]

GlobalTowne.com sells user replaceable spare parts for the Ariston Line of mini-tank electric water heaters. Be sure to buy the correct parts -- one set of parts works for the Ariston GL2.5 and GL4 models while another set of parts works for the Ariston GL6+ model.

For the Ariston GL2.5 and Ariston GL4 electric mini-tank water heaters we sell the replacement for the sacrificial Anode Rod (#574305). This part can be used for the Ariston GL2.5, Ariston GL4, Airston GL2.5Ti, and Ariston GL4Ti mini-tank water heaters as well as for the now obsolete Ariston models P10S and P15S.

For the Ariston GL6+ electric mini-tank water heater we sell the replacement for the sacrificial Anode Rod (#570241). This slightly longer part can also be used for the Bosch Pro Ariston GL8Ti mini-tank water heater.



We also sell the Ariston GLKIT which contains the sacrificial anode rod for the Ariston GL2.5/GL4 Series (#574305) as well as the heating element (#994103) and the GL gasket (#994147). The Ariston GL Kit can be used for the Ariston GL2.5, Ariston GL4, Ariston GL2.5Ti, and Ariston GL4Ti mini-tank water heaters.




We also sell the Ariston GL6+ KIT which contains the sacrificial anode rod for the Ariston GL6 Plus Series (#570241) as well as the heating element (#994104) and the GL gasket (#994147). The Ariston GL6+ Kit can be used for the Ariston GL6+, Ariston GL4 and Ariston Pro GL8Ti mini-tank water heaters.
The replacement Thermostat #65105602 can be used for the Ariston GL2.5/GL4 and also the older Ariston models P10S/P15S.  Old part number was 994062.

[UPDATED 12/14/2018]

The Ariston GL2.5/GL4 Thermostat #65105602 has been discontinued. However, Bosch has just released a Bosch Ariston GL2.5/GL4 Thermostat Retrofit Kit #7738006446 that comes with new plastic face pieces, heating element, anode rod, gasket and bolts and thermostat that will turn the older GL6 Plus into a new Bosch Tronic 3000T ES8. See our updated blog entry.



The replacement Thermostat #65150322 is for the Ariston GL6+.  Old part number was 994102.

[UPDATED 12/14/2018]

The Ariston GL6 Plus Thermostat #65150322 has been discontinued. However, Bosch has just released a Bosch Ariston GL6+ Thermostat Retrofit Kit #7738006447 that comes with new plastic face pieces, heating element, anode rod, gasket and bolts and thermostat that will turn the older GL6 Plus into a new Bosch Tronic 3000T ES8. See our updated blog entry.

Lastly, there is a kit called the ARKIT that contains the anode, gasket and element for the older Ariston models P10S and P15S. Call us at 888.726.9752 to order the ARKIT for these older Ariston Models.

Steve

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Indoor 2700ES/2400ES Installations with Outdoor Piping

The Bosch 2700ES and Bosch 2400ES tankless water heaters can be installed indoors and vented out the side-wall using the AQ3ES Vent Kit or up through the roof using the ES VVT Vent Kit.

These two high efficiency Bosch Tankless Water Heaters can also be installed outdoors using the AQOK Vent Kit.

One question we often get asked by customers who want to vent out through the side wall is whether or not they can use additional 3" stainless steel venting parts on the outside of their homes. Most often these customers want to vent out the side wall and then use a 3" 90 degree elbow to then add vertical vent pipe to bring the venting termination point higher up the side of their home.

Gas codes do not allow vent pipe to run along the outside of the house in cold climates due to condensation problems and interference with draft. The heaters are designed for sidewall termination only (not sidewall penetration with vent continuing outside).

The likely outcome of installing in cold climates with additional outdoor piping will be significant condensation leading to heater damage, particularly to the gas valve. Theoretically, adding extra condensate drains would help reduce the chances for this type of damage, but Bosch does not recommend rigging up extra drains for what would be an improper install in the first place.

You may consider building an insulated exterior chase to run vertical vent pipe through. Consult your local Gas Code to see if this is allowed. When heaters are not installed according to Gas Codes then they are generally not covered by a warranty.

Here is the proper way to exhaust the Bosch AquaStar 2700ES or 2400ES tankless water heaters:

Proper way to exhaust the Bosch AquaStar 2700ES or 2400ES tankless water heaters

The following diagram shows both the exhaust and intake air (combustion air):

Bosch 2700ES/2400ES exhaust and intake air (combustion air)

Steve

Monday, June 1, 2009

Mini-Tank Heating ~ Ariston GL2.5, GL4, GL6+

The Ariston mini tanks, GL2.5, GL4 and GL 6 are just that, tank water heaters.

They do not heat up water as the water flow through the heater, that would be a TANKLESS or inline water heater. We do get calls asking if the mini tanks can be used for showers or inline applications, they usually cannot be.

One question is how long does it take to recharge these heaters. the formula for heating water is :
kw/h=weight x change in temperature x specific heat/3413 (btu's / kw).

To figure weight, use 8.3 pounds per gallon. Most ground water is about 55 - 60 degrees, and the desired temperature is usually about 122. Our change is temperature is about 70 degrees. The specific heat or water is 1.

So the kw required to heat 2.5 gallons to 122 degrees in one hour would be 425 watts or .425 kw.

Since the GL2.5 ( and GL4 and GL 6) utilizes a 1500 watt element, it would take about 22 minutes to heat the mini-tank to you 122 degrees F.

We can also figure out the GL4 and GL6 using the same formula.
The GL4 would take about 35 minutes to heat up to 122 degrees F.
The GL6 would take about an hour to heat up to 122 degrees F.

If the inlet water temperature is 70 degrees the times to heat up the tanks are:

Ariston GL2.5 = 15 minutes
Ariston GL4 = 20 minutes
Ariston GL6+ = 30 minutes

All figures are rounded and approximate and the heating elements can be +/- 7% in wattage in the actual tanks as well as voltage fluctuations can affect heat up times.

The ARISTON mini-tanks are best suited for sinks for hand washing and also can be used to provide "instant" hot water water to a shower while waiting for the hot water to arrive from the main hot water source like a tankless heater located in a basement.





Sunday, May 31, 2009

ENERGY STAR Rating for Tankless Water Heaters

ENERGY STAR Rating for Tankless Water HeatersBy heating water only when it's needed, ENERGY STAR qualified gas tankless water heaters cut water heating expenses by 30%, while also providing continuous hot water delivery. Gas tankless models are a great choice for new construction and major remodeling, but are also popular as a replacement for gas storage water heaters.

Save Money and More with ENERGY STAR Qualified Whole-Home Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Cost comparison between tankless water heaters and traditional tank water heatersENERGY STAR qualified gas tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, plus a whole lot more. Consider a qualified tankless water heater for your home and enjoy these benefits:

Save energy and money. You don't use hot water 24-hours a day. Yet a standard tank-type water heater consumes energy round the clock to keep the water in its tank hot. By heating water only when you need it, ENERGY STAR qualified tankless water heaters save the typical family more than $100 per year on gas bills compared to a standard storage model. Larger families can save even more.

Annual cost savings for a tankless water heaterContinuous hot water. Tankless water heaters provide a continuous flow of hot water, so there's no need to suffer through a cold shower if you're the last one out of bed. Unlike with a conventional tank-type water heater, the hot water is always there when you need it.

Space-saving design. A qualified tankless model saves you an extra closet's worth of space compared to a tank-type water heater. Gas tankless water heaters are small and wall-mounted, unlike bulky tank-type water heaters. Models designed for outdoor installation free up even more space and add versatility to your basement, garage, or utility room.

Fewer worries. Tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of 20 years, much longer than any conventional tank-type water heater. And with a tankless model, the risk of tank leaks and water damage is a thing of the past.

The Bosch 2700ES-NG (natural gas) and Bosch 2700ES-LP (propane) tankless water heaters are ENERGY STAR rated.

The Bosch 2400ES-NG (natural gas) and Bosch 2400ES-LP (propane) tankless water heaters are ENERGY STAR rated.

Information on this blog entry was pulled from the ENERGY STAR web site maintained by the US Environmental Protection Agency / US Department of Energy.

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Bosch TSTAT2 Remote Control for Bosch 2700ES / 2400ES / 2400E / 2400EO

The Bosch TSTAT2 Remote Control for Bosch AquaStar 2700ES / 2400ES / 2400E / 2400EO / 250SX / 250SXO / 635ES Tankless Water heaters gives you the ability to remotely adjust the temperature of your Bosch Tankless Water Heater to a safe and comfortable level.

The TSTAT2 remote is particularly useful if you own a jacuzzi or hot tub that requires a hotter water temperature than you normally desire for regular shower use. Most people who own hot tubs want to fill them at a temperature that is higher than that normally used for comfortable showers. The TSTAT2 remote allows you to remotely raise the temperature when filling a hot tub and then drop the temperature back to a "normal" temperature -- usually between 105 and 112 degrees fahrenheit.

Please note that the electrical control of the Bosch AquaStar 2700ES / 2400ES / 2400E / 2400EO / 250SX / 250SXO / 635ES must be removed and opened in order to install the wireless receiver circuit board to enable the use of the TSTAT2 Wireless Remote Control.

The Bosch 2700ES and Bosch 2400ES tankless water heaters have been redesigned to make the installation of the wireless receiver circuit board much easier.

With the touch of a button, you can ensure an optimized heating output to suit everyone's needs!

Steve

Friday, May 29, 2009

FXHOOD for Bosch 125FX Tankless Water Heater

 The FXHOOOD is required by Bosch whenever a customer installs the Bosch AquaStar 125FX Tankless Water Heater. It is also required for the older 240FX model.

The FX Hood is a horizontal vent terminator with built-in freeze protection for the Bosch AquaStar 125FX and 240FX models as well as the Takagi T-K1 Tankless Water Heater. The FX Hood will prevent cold air from freezing the heat exchanger on the Bosch AquaStar Tankless Water Heaters. The back draft preventer (FX Hood) should be used with all electronic ignition gas tankless water heaters where the outside temperature can fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Installing the Bosch FX HoodThe Bosch FXHOOD is doubled-piped so it can be installed next to combustible materials. The face plate is 12 inches by 12 inches and the pipe is 8 inches in diameter with the inner pipe being 4 inches in diameter.

Steve

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Ariston GL6+ Used for a Shower?

A common question we get is whether or not the Ariston GL6+ mini-tank electric water heater can be used for a single shower stall.

Here is our answer:

The GL 6 is a TANK heater and holds about 6 gallons of hot water. A standard shower uses between 2 and 2.5 gpm of water. This will mean that you can get a 2-3 minute shower if the water is kept on.

Also, since it is a tank (albeit a mini-tank), as you start to use the hot water, the tank will be back-filled with ambient temperature water, thus cooling it down. The GL6+ is designed for sinks for hand and dish washing or to be used inline with a tankless water heater to give instant hot water while waiting for the hot water to arrive from the main water source.

We do not think that the Ariston Gl6+ mini-tank will work well for a single stall shower for most people.

Our PowerStar AE12 heater will work for a low flow shower with input water temps of 60 or more. This heater is a 50 amp heater and requires 220/240 volts.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Virgo Water Filtration, Conditioning & Softening Systems

GlobalTowne is the exclusive online reseller of the Virgo Water Systems line of Water Filtration, Water Conditioning & Water Softening systems.

Virgo Water Systems provide whole house, chemical-free water purification systems that filter and condition your water, providing years of maintenance free water that is both clean smelling and pleasant tasting. Virgo Water Systems deliver water that is pure as nature intended.

All Virgo Water Systems feature a Limited Lifetime Warranty and are available in multiple sizes to accommodate any application.

The Virgo Crystal Water Filtration and Conditioning System is our top-of-the-line offering. Its five phase system offers the ultimate in crystal clean water. The Virgo Crystal is maintenance free and chemical free. It comes in a fiberglass tank with a welded stainless steel cover. It is available with 1", 1.25", 1.5" or 2" diameter brass connections.

The Virgo Clear Whole-House, Chemical Free Water Filtration System delivers clean smelling and pleasant tasting water to every room in the house. Its single phase system uses a premium grade acid-washed granular activated carbon filter that is perfect for homes with unpleasant smelling or tasting water. It comes in a fiberglass tank with a welded stainless steel cover. It is available with 1", 1.25", 1.5" or 2" diameter brass connections.

The Virgo Water Softener is designed to help protect plumbing and appliances from hard water damage. It allows you to clean with less soap and reduces spotted dishes and glassware. It includes an 18" x 40" brine tank. Its all resin tanks are covered with a stainless steel welded jacket.

The Virgo Scale Stopper is designed to help protect plumbing and appliances from lime-scale damage. It comes in a fiberglass tank with a welded stainless steel cover. It comes with inlet/outlet with bypass and sweat brass connectors. Its maintenance free design requires no power to operate.

The Virgo Scale Terminator is designed to help protect plumbing and appliances from lime-scale damage. A must for tankless water heaters! The Virgo Scale Terminator is a lower-cost option for the Virgo Scale Stopper. The Virgo Scale Terminator features a Fiberglass tank with plastic NPT inlet/outlet. Its maintenance free design requires no power to operate.

The Virgo Water Systems lineup of Water Filtration, Water Conditioning and Water Softening Systems provides the best way for you to provide clean, good smelling water to your entire family.

Steve

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Electric Tankless Heaters


Globaltowne sells Electric Tankless Water Heaters for both whole house and point of use!

Electric tankless heaters seem to cause some confusion in the market place due to their high amperage (current draw) and limited 120 volt heaters.  All tankless heaters are not direct drop in replacements for tank heaters.  Tankless usually require an infrastructure change to accommodate the requirements for tankless heaters.

First off, water is a very difficult material to heat.  It takes twice the amount of heat to heat water than oil and 10 times the amount of heat to heat water over metals.  Tank heaters have smaller amount of heat input than tankless as they use a time factor to get the water up to temperature.  the first time a tank heater is turned on, it can take up to 2-6 hours to get to temperature depending on tank size and heat input and insulation on the tank.  Once installed and turned on the tank is constantly trying to keep the water at temperature.  The formula for knowing how to heat water is:
kilowatts/hour = (mass x temperature change) / 3413 (btu's per KW)

If we look at a standard 50 gallon tank for example, the formula is:

10 = (415 x 80)/3413
10 kw will heat the tank in 1 hour.

Now, 10 kw requires 41 amps running on 240 volts.
Common breaker sizes are 30 amps, so a tank heater usually has 6 or 7.5 kw input to stay under the 30 amp breaker size. which will increase the time to heat the tank.

Tankless heaters have to heat the water as it passes through the heater, thus much more heat input is required.  Our whole house heater has a heat input rating of 27 kw.  At this heat input  the heater will raise the temperature 45 degrees at a flow rate of 4.0 gpm.  If the flow rate is reduced to 2.5 gpm the heat rise will be about 65 degrees.  This heater has three 9 kw heating modules and thus each module requires 40 amps to operate.  This means that a total of 120 amps ( 240 volts) is required to operate the heater.  This is significant power requirements. the difference is the time factor has been removed from the tank equation.  

Amps are defined by the wattage divided by the voltage.  Lower amps mean smaller breaker sizes and smaller wire sizes.  This reduces costs and panel sizes.  This is why electrical appliances such as ovens, dryers and water heaters utilize 220-240 volts in lieu of 120 volts (1/2 the amps) for their power requirements.

Will tankless save on electricity?   The answer is Yes.

In electrical terms, a tank heater can use between 60,000 watts to 75,000 watts per day to keep water hot.  Our 27,000 watt heater will use about 27,000 watts per day.  That is a significant reduction.  A tank heater can be on up to 10 hours a day keeping water hot.  A 6kw heater times 10 hours is 60kw or 60,000 watts.  The tankless heater is NOT on except when hot water is called for.  A normal usage for a home is about an hour per day.  Of course, when you are not home, there will be NO usage with a tankless heater.  Most home owners do not turn off their tank water heater and are thus using power even when no one is home.

I use an electric tankless heater and it works great, we have set the temperature at 108 and it is more than hot enough and the showers can be endless.  We did have to install a new panel to handle the breakers and increased amperes required.  

In summary, it is simple physics as to why a tankless heater has such large KW and amp requirements, water is just difficult to heat and it needs a "muscle car' to do it with an on-demand or tankless heater.  Save money and install an electric tankless heater.



Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Bosch 1600H with AQ4 vs. Bosch 125FX with FXHood

If you have just one shower and are looking to vent out of the sidewall, Bosch currently offers two tankless water heater solutions.

The Bosch AquaStar 125FX Propane tankless water heater is a 125,000 BTU input tankless water heater (130,000 BTU for Natural Gas model) that has an electronic ignition system. The 125FX comes with a side-wall vent kit called the FX Hood. This heater is designed to be vented out of the side wall and it cannot be vented up through the roof. The 125FX requires electricity to power the electronic ignition and FXHood.

The Bosch AquaStar 1600H is a 117,000 BTU input tankless water heater that is designed to be vented up through the roof. It uses Bosch's patented Hydro ignition system that automatically starts the ignition process when it senses the flow of water. The Bosch 1600H does not require electricity nor does it have a battery. It also has NO PILOT LIGHT. It does require a 5" diameter Type B double-walled vent of at least 6 feet in height when vented vertically.

Bosch 1600H Vented through the side wall with the AQ4 Horizontal Vent KitThe Bosch 1600H can be vented through the side wall using the AQ4 Vent Kit. However, please note that the AQ4 Horizontal Vent Kit DOES require electricity. (The AQ4 Vent Kit can also be used for the Bosch 1600P tankless water heater.)

In summary, Bosch offers two solid tankless water heater options for single shower homes requiring side wall venting.

Steve

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Bosch AquaStar 1000P Gas Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater

The Bosch AquaStar 1000P gas tankless water heater is a point-os-use water heater designed to provide instant hot water for two sinks. It can, in some locals be used to provide hot water for a single shower.

The Bosch 1000P can deliver 2.5 GPM of hot water at a 45 degree F temperature rise. A regular shower head delivers about 2.5GPM, so the Bosch 1000P is right on the edge for delivering water for a hot shower.

However, if you live in a warm climate, such as Texas, Southern California, Florida, Arizona, etc, then you probably do not need to raise the water temperature by 45 degrees, so the 1000P can work for a single shower.

Also, if you use a low-flow shower head that reduces your flow to say 1.5GMP, then again you can have a hot shower with the Bosch 1000P.

We would not recommend the Bosch AquaStar 1000P for a regular flow shower head in New York -- it just will not be able to keep up and provide you with a hot shower.

The Bosch 1000P replaced the older Bosch 38B. But the 38B only delivered about 1GPM at the same 45 degree F temperature rise. So, the 1000P really is a much stronger water heater than the 38B ever was!

The Bosch 1000P comes in both Natural Gas and Propane models.

Steve

Monday, May 18, 2009

Bosch Tankless Authorized Distributor - Globaltowne

GlobalTowne is an Authorized Distributor for the Bosch line of gas and electric Tankless Water Heaters.


Being a Bosch Authorized Distributor means that GlobalTowne buys tankless water heaters directly from Bosch for resale to home owners and contractors. Bosch provides GlobalTowne with regular product-specific training on all of their gas and electric tankless water heaters. This means that the GlobalTowne sales staff is always up on the latest Bosch tankless product developments.

Bosch ships its tankless water heaters directly to our warehouses on skids delivered by freight carriers. All of our tankless water heaters are brand new straight from the factory.

As a Bosch Authroized Dealer, GlobalTowne purchases Bosch Tankless Water Heaters in quantity and is able to pass along the best savings directly to our customers.

We are of course able to use the Bosch logo and Bosch images. All of the Bosch tankless water heaters we sell come with the full Bosch factory warranty.

It is important when making a tankless water heater purchase to deal with an Authorized Distributor.

Steve

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Bosch Tankless Water Heater Product Demos

Bosch Thermotechnology Corp has worked with Easy2 Technologies to provide GlobalTowne with a series of professional product demos that are worth taking a look at before you purchase your new Bosch Tankless Water Heater.

Bosch Tankless Water Heater Demos are available for the following products:
  • Bosch 2700ES
  • Bosch 2400ES
  • Bosch 125FX
  • Bosch 1600H
  • Bosch PowerStar AE125
  • Bosch PowerStar AE115
  • Bosch AQ3ES Horizontal Vent Kit
  • Bosch ES VVT Vertical Vent Kit
These professional product demos list the product features and specifications, venting options, and more!
Steve

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Gas Lights - Preformed Mantles vs. Tie On Mantles

Humphrey Tie-on mantlesPaulin / Humphrey manufactures Gas Lights for homes, cabins and cottages. The lights are usually run on LP propane gas but can be run on natural gas NG with the correct orifice. The biggest question is usually which kind of mantle should be used. There are three types, Pre-Formed, Tie on and clip on. the clip on mantles are the least used, but are simialr to the tie on for usage.

The general rule of thimb is to use the tie on mantles in applications where the lights are moved (not permanent). This would included ice fishing shacks, trailers, and campers. The reason for this is the tie on mantles are less suseptible to breakage when moved. And if they are broken or destroyed they cost less to replace. The movement or dragging of a trailer or Ice shack can cause the mantles to break. The downside is that the tie on mantles are not as bright.

Humphrey Preformed MantlesThe preformed mantles are designed for permanent locations such as cottages. They can provide about the same light as a 60 watt light bulb and can last for years. However, once lit they are very fragile. Do not touch the mantle or blow on it. If treated gently then the mantle will last for a long time. Even with a small hole or tear the mantle will burn well.

Our number 9 mantles will work on the older # 8 lamps.

Another sidelight, you can change lights to preformed or tie on by changing the burner noses. When changing a burner nose make sure to also replace the gaskets (seals) as they tend to break during a change. FYI - a tie on mantle can be used on a preformed lamp, but a preformed mantle cannot be used on a tie on lamp.

Humphrey Gas Lights

Gas Light accessories and parts

www.globaltowne.com

Paul

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Tankless Solutions for Mobile, Modular and Manufactured Homes

Bosch Gas Tankless Water Heaters are NOT approved for mobile homes.

We get calls all the time from customers who tell us that their mobile home is permanently on blocks or that their double-wide is HUD approved and never going to be moved.

None of this changes the fact that these are still mobile homes, and the Bosch Gas Tankless Water Heaters are simply NOT approved for this application.

The basic reasoning for this is that these homes are pretty well air
tight. They also may not stay in the same location over the period of
their life time so they need to be gas type convertible. A mobile home is defined in the definition section of the ANSI standard and among other things must be on a "permanent chassis."

On the other hand, the Bosch Gas Tankless Water Heaters ARE approved for modular homes. Although Modular Homes are built in prefabricated pieces, they are assembled on site and are considered the same as traditional stick-built homes when it comes to the approvals for tankless water heaters.

There is some question on the approval status for Bosch tankless water heaters for Manufactured Homes. Bosch recommends that you seek local code approval before you move forward with a Bosch tankless solution for Manufactured Homes.

All Bosch Electric tankless water heaters are approved for Mobile, Modular and Manufactured Homes.

Steve

Monday, May 11, 2009

Bosch Tankless Water Heater Review

Bosch offers a full lineup of tankless water heaters including gas, propane and electric models. Included in the Bosch lineup are whole house gas, propane and electric tankless water heaters and point-of-use gas, propane and electric tankless water heaters. Bosch also offers point-of-use electric mini-tank heaters.

The following list gives links for each heater in the Bosch Gas/Propane Whole House tankless water heater lineup:
The following list gives links for each heater in the Bosch Electric Whole House tankless water heater lineup:
The following list gives links for each heater in the Bosch Gas/Propane Point-of-Use tankless water heater lineup:
The following list gives links for each heater in the Bosch Electric Point-of-Use tankless water heater lineup:
The following list gives links for each heater in the Bosch Electric Point-of-Use mini-tank lineup:
Steve