Side arm vs plate heat exchanger for domestic hot water?

[gravelracing]

So the use of hot water actually fills your hot water tank? Do you leave your hot water tank on low in case you dont use hot water often enough?

 

[coostv]

Correct, it is refilled with hot water. With daily use I do not think it will ever come on. I currently just have it set to vacation, I have not heard it run once (power vent). If I can make it down to Harbor Freight in the next couple weeks I will buy an IR temp gun (have a coupon to get one for $26) just because I am curious to see what the temp of the pipe is entering the water heater. That and I would like to see what the difference is in and out of the exchanger on the boiler side.

 

[gravelracing]

Thanks for the info, I ordered a plate exchanger yesterday, should have by Monday or Tuesday!! Will be very happy to have free hot water again!

 

[Jmax]

I want to use side arm but have to use pressures relief opening on top of WH
I’m told this won’t work any thoughts?

 

[NSMaple1]

That's where mine is plumbed.