Does Idaho Power recommend the use of tankless water heaters?
Idaho Power does not recommend use of electric tankless water heaters for two reasons. First, the temperature of the incoming water can affect the performance of electric tankless water heaters, and in Idaho, the groundwater temperature is often too cold. We are aware of several instances where people have been disappointed in the ability of the electric tankless water heaters to maintain an adequate volume of hot water for their needs. Second, due to the need to bring water temperature up quickly, electric tankless water heaters draw an excess electrical current (wattage) while hot water is being used. This results in a service overload which will cause a low voltage condition resulting in the dimming of lights and the interrupted operation of other equipment within your home and the homes of your neighbors. With time, continued operation in this fashion may result in the failure of the service transformer and service conductors. The water heating section under Idaho Power’s residenti
