So there I was, standing in a cold shower, because once again, my old water heater had failed me. That was the moment I knew something had to change. After a bit of research and a few discussions with some fellow DIY plumbers, I heard the name “Navien” pop up. They’re known for their tankless water heaters, and I was curious. Fast forward to today, and I’ve had my Navien tankless water heater for over a year. Here’s the lowdown on what you should know before taking the plunge yourself.
The Breakdown: What Makes Navien Stand Out?
Navien is one of the top names in tankless water heaters, and after using one, I understand why. The promise of endless hot water, energy savings, and space efficiency is a big selling point. Let me walk you through the most important factors.
1. Efficiency and Energy Savings
High Efficiency
Navien tankless water heaters boast ultra-high energy efficiency, with many models like the Navien NPE-S2 hitting up to 0.97 UEF (Uniform Energy Factor). That’s as good as it gets. The beauty of this is that you’re using less energy to heat water compared to traditional tank systems. I saw a noticeable drop in my utility bills after the switch.
Condensing Technology
Many Navien models use condensing technology. Basically, it recycles exhaust heat, increasing efficiency while reducing wasted energy. With traditional heaters, a lot of that heat goes up the flue, but Navien harnesses it.
2. Endless Hot Water
Navien’s slogan should be “Say goodbye to cold showers.” The best part about going tankless is that you never run out of hot water. This was a huge game-changer for me, especially with a busy household. I put the system to the test during peak times—morning showers, laundry, dishes—and it never skipped a beat.
Flow Rate
Navien models generally offer excellent flow rates, typically ranging from 6.3 to 11.2 gallons per minute (GPM), depending on your choice of unit. For larger households, you’ll want a higher GPM to ensure consistent hot water supply.
3. Installation and Space-Saving
Wall-Mounted & Compact
One thing I noticed immediately: the space I saved. Since the unit is wall-mounted, it freed up floor space where the old clunky tank used to sit. If you’ve got a small utility closet, this alone is a big win.
Professional Installation Recommended
While I’m no stranger to DIY, I realized that installing a Navien tankless heater isn’t quite like swapping out a kitchen faucet. This is an investment piece, and it’s a bit technical—especially if you need to vent properly or switch from a traditional tank system. It’s better to have a pro handle it. That said, the install process is smoother than expected, and the unit comes with an easy-to-read manual.
4. Durability and Maintenance
Built to Last
Navien water heaters are designed for the long haul. The heat exchangers are made of stainless steel, which resists corrosion and increases lifespan. After one year, mine still runs like new with no hiccups.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Like any tankless heater, you’ll need to maintain it to prevent scaling, especially if you have hard water. This isn’t unique to Navien, but something to keep in mind. Flush the system yearly to ensure peak performance. The unit will last longer if you take care of it.
5. Control and Connectivity
Navien ComfortFlow Technology
One cool feature I appreciated is the ComfortFlow recirculation. With a small buffer tank and recirculation pump, it provides hot water almost instantly to your taps. This prevents that annoying wait for hot water on cold mornings.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Some Navien models offer Wi-Fi control through their NaviLink app. If you’re tech-savvy, this is a nice bonus. You can control your water heater remotely, check diagnostics, and even set schedules.
6. The Downsides: No Product is Perfect
Now, it’s not all roses. Here’s where Navien may have some trade-offs:
- Upfront Cost
Tankless water heaters, including Navien models, typically have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional tank heaters. Depending on the model, you could be looking at anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 before installation costs. However, the long-term savings on energy can offset this over time. - Requires Proper Venting
Most Navien models require professional-grade venting, which can add to the installation costs if your home isn’t already set up for it. - Cold Water Sandwich Effect
Although rare with Navien’s ComfortFlow technology, I’ve read some users occasionally experience the “cold water sandwich,” where you get a brief burst of cold water before the hot water kicks in fully. It happened to me once or twice, but nothing significant.
Navien Popular Models: Quick Overview
| Model | Flow Rate (GPM) | Energy Efficiency (UEF) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navien NPE-240A2 | 11.2 GPM | 0.97 | Large homes, high demand |
| Navien NPE-180A2 | 8.4 GPM | 0.96 | Mid-sized homes |
| Navien NPN-160E | 6.6 GPM | 0.81 | Small homes, budget-conscious |
| Navien NPE-240S2 | 11.2 GPM | 0.96 | Commercial or multi-family |
Should You Go Navien?
In my opinion, if you’re tired of running out of hot water and want to save on energy bills, a Navien tankless water heater is absolutely worth it. The initial cost might make you flinch, but the long-term savings and performance make it a solid investment. Just make sure you’re prepared for the yearly maintenance, and you won’t be disappointed.
The reliability, endless hot water, and energy efficiency have made a world of difference for me, and I wouldn’t go back to a tank system again.