from Bret in Eau Claire, WI:
#479
I need to change out my water heater. I had an energy audit done and they suggested changing to a power vent compared to my direct vent. Which would be better?
Both power-vent and direct-vent are effective.
Power venting uses a fan to assure proper exhaust of combustion gases, mostly water vapor, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide through the side wall of the home. Without power venting there is the potential that the combustion products can accumulate in the home, causing damage and illnesses. Direct venting uses both an intake and exhaust duct to move combustion gases through the side wall of the home. A direct vent may or may not also be a power vent unit. Both the power vent and direct vent water heaters are effective at preventing combustion gasses from "back drafting" into the home.
So with the safety issue settled, the next thing is to look for the Energy Factor (EF). The more efficient the model, the higher the EF. Look for 0.64 or higher EF on conventional tank combustion water heaters, 0.80 or higher EF on instantaneous water heaters.
Published Tuesday, October 06, 2009