You wouldn’t believe how often I’ve walked into a house with a cold shower problem, only to find an old water heater hanging on for dear life. And many times, when the conversation turns to what brand they should choose next, I hear, “What about Lochinvar?” So, I’ve been around Lochinvar water heaters quite a bit—installing, troubleshooting, and tuning them up. Are they as good as the hype? Let me break down what you should know.
The First Time I Installed a Lochinvar
I remember the first Lochinvar heater I installed—it was a Lochinvar Knight Residential Gas Water Heater. The owner had done some research and was impressed by the energy efficiency claims. I installed it, and after a couple of test runs, I could tell this unit had more going for it than just energy efficiency.
Main takeaways:
- Quiet operation: This heater ran quieter than most units I’ve installed, especially compared to older models.
- Fast heating: The water reached temperature faster than I expected. This is a game changer for households with high demand.
- Smart controls: With a digital display and smart settings, it was easy to tweak the temperature and check diagnostics.
What Makes Lochinvar Stand Out?
1. Energy Efficiency
One of the biggest selling points for Lochinvar heaters is their high energy efficiency ratings. Most of their models, especially the high-end ones like the Knight and Power-Fin series, boast efficiency levels as high as 98%. If you’re tired of paying high utility bills, this could be a major draw for you.
2. Durability
From experience, Lochinvar units are built like tanks. They use stainless steel tanks in many of their models, which resist corrosion better than standard steel tanks. The models that I’ve installed seem to last longer without needing major repairs or replacements. On average, expect 15–20 years of service life, which is on the higher end for water heaters.
3. Advanced Technology
Lochinvar isn’t just making the old standard tank heaters—many of their models feature smart control systems. You’ll find options like:
- CON•X•US® Remote Monitoring: This lets you monitor and adjust your water heater from your smartphone.
- Integrated Energy Star Ratings: For maximum savings and lower carbon footprints.
I’ve used the smart controls on installations, and it’s convenient for both the customer and the installer—no more guesswork on what’s wrong with the heater.
Popular Lochinvar Models
1. Knight XL Water Heater
Type: Gas-powered, condensing
Best For: Large homes or commercial settings with high hot water demands.
Pros:
- Extremely high efficiency (up to 97%)
- Built for heavy-duty use
- Whisper-quiet operation
Cons: - On the expensive side
My experience: Installed a couple of these in commercial settings, and they handle constant high-demand usage like champs.
2. Squire Indirect Water Heater
Type: Indirect, works with an existing boiler or solar panel
Best For: Homes using alternative energy sources or hydronic heating systems
Pros:
- No direct fuel use; pulls energy from existing boiler system
- Very high recovery rates
Cons: - Needs to be paired with a boiler; it’s not a standalone system.
My experience: Installed one for a client using a solar system. It provides endless hot water without adding much to their energy bill. Low maintenance needs too.
3. Power-Fin High-Efficiency Water Heater
Type: Gas-powered, tankless
Best For: Anyone focused on energy savings and wanting an endless hot water supply.
Pros:
- Super efficient (98%)
- Space-saving design
- Advanced diagnostics and WiFi monitoring
Cons: - Can be pricey upfront
My experience: Installed for a small hotel, and the owners were thrilled with the savings in energy costs. You’ll need regular maintenance, though, to keep that efficiency up.
Issues to Watch Out For
No heater is perfect, and Lochinvar has a few things to keep in mind:
1. Pricey Upfront
Lochinvar heaters are not cheap. You’ll pay a premium for the brand, especially for the high-efficiency models. But if you’re planning to stay in your home for years or want to lower your energy bills significantly, it’s worth it.
2. Complex Installation
I’ll be honest: these units can be tricky to install. You’ll want to make sure your installer knows their way around a Lochinvar because getting everything hooked up correctly, especially the high-tech models, can be a little technical.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Many Lochinvar heaters, especially the high-efficiency or tankless models, need regular maintenance to keep running smoothly. If you neglect cleaning or descaling them, you’ll lose a lot of the energy savings. Plan on servicing it at least once a year.
How to Avoid Problems with a Lochinvar Heater
To keep your Lochinvar water heater running smoothly, follow these tips:
- Schedule annual maintenance: If you have a condensing or tankless model, it’s important to keep it clean. Scale buildup will decrease efficiency and lead to issues over time.
- Install with a professional: This isn’t a DIY job. Get a licensed plumber who’s familiar with Lochinvar products.
- Check the warranty: Lochinvar heaters often come with great warranties, but only if you maintain the unit properly. Register the product, keep records of maintenance, and don’t skip services!
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Lochinvar Water Heater?
If you’re in the market for a premium water heater that offers energy savings, durability, and smart technology, Lochinvar is a top contender. It’s definitely one of the best brands for high-demand households or businesses, but be ready for the upfront investment.
The models I’ve installed over the years have all had positive feedback from customers, whether they’re running a large home or a small business. Just make sure to factor in the installation complexity and maintenance costs into your decision-making process.