RW>> They only heat water so many degrees above ambient.
 
TH> Ambient what? Air, water input? You neglected to say. They
RW> Ok I didn't specifically say but I thought everyone could infer
  > that I meant the ambient temp of the water from the structure of
  > the sentence.
 
Now, now, Rick, were friends, okay. But, never assume *everyone* knows
just what you are talking about. Be cool and explain yourself. 
 
TH> However, if the flow is low enough the outflow will achieve a
  > given temp and a gas will be moderated to limit the maximum.
  > However, if the flow is high (like fillig a tub AND running a
  > dishwasher) the outflow temp will drop quite a bit, even to the
  > point where the 'hot' water is merrely warm, or even tepid. I
  > think you pretty much know the basics, and these heaters are
  > rather basic.
RW> The way I understand them the output flow and temp are
  > restricted. IOW, if you tried to take a shower and fill the
  > washer the water would be the same temp you would just have less
  > of it and therefore less pressure, just like in a tank system. Of
  > course that's assuming that the system is set up to supply the
  > max amount of hot water @ max temp.
 
Well, having both flow loads increases the flow *and* decreases the
pressure at the HW outlet. This usually results in a rude awakening.
 
TH> Wow! When I bought my Myson it was about $350. I was considering
  > replacing it with a larger unit. But after seeing the price, I
  > decided to build a solar batch water heater. It raises the input
  > temp of the water such that I can get much more and hotter water.
RW> Too much trouble! I have too much to do through the day now
  > without having to worry about with: the kids, dogs, cats, horses,
  > fence repair, car repairs, cooking..... Back in my younger days
  > the money savings might have out weighed the inconvenience but
  > not now.
 
Well, I guess it boils down to priorities. Personally, I believe that
propane prices will double in the years to come. But, even if it does
not, I can buy a horse on the first years energy savings alone.
 
TH> Solar is cheaper, you just have to live where the sun shines.  From you origin line I'm assuming that you're in CA. Without
  > trying to start anything I'll just say you can keep the whole
  > state for several reasons.
Hey, I never said that I was fond of this state, but I will make do
with the resources that are available.
RW> One, I'm a 'cold' person.
Then stay away, you would melt in the Summertime. 
RW> Two, I love having four distinct seasons.
Hey, what are you talking about. We get four seasons: Spring, Summer,
Wind, and Rain. If we want snow, it's less than an hour away. And If
we want snow in the summertime, it is *two* hours away.
RW> Three, the politics out there are too much for me. Too much
  > government interference in what I can and can't do.
You'll get no argument from me about that, dude. 
But, this place *is* my home.
RW> Remember:  Freedom isn't Free!
But just think what you get on credit. 
--- Maximus/2 3.01
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