Forimo Tankless Water Heater Review – Pros and Cons

The Forimo Tankless Water Heater offers efficient and energy-saving water heating with a tankless design. It can produce up to 4.74 gallons of hot water per minute at a maximum temperature rise of 167°F, making it suitable for simultaneous use in multiple points like bathrooms and kitchens. Designed for natural gas (LNG) use, it features advanced combustion technology to reduce gas consumption and noise, with a maximum power output of 68,000 BTU/hour.

Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, this water heater is resistant to high temperatures and corrosion. It includes a built-in oxygen-free copper water tank to minimize heat loss, extending the product’s lifespan. The LED smart digital display allows easy temperature adjustments between 86°F and 167°F.

Installation is straightforward, requiring standard 1/2″ NPT water fittings and a 2.5″ horizontal vent pipe. Proper ventilation and a smoke exhaust pipe are necessary for safe operation.

Compact and versatile, the Forimo Water Heater is ideal for homes, small cabins, and remote apartments, significantly saving space compared to traditional tank heaters. It’s also equipped with safety features like flame failure, anti-freezing, and overheating protections. Note that in cold weather, draining residual water via the pressure relief valve is advised if the heater remains unused for extended periods.

Pros:

1. Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: The unit is notably more efficient compared to traditional models, such as the Bosch on-demand heater. Its energy-saving features and efficient heating mechanism make it a cost-effective option, especially considering its price point.
2. Improved Performance: Users have reported that the Forimo Tankless Water Heater works better than previous models they have owned. Its capability to consistently provide hot water without fluctuations in temperature is a significant advantage.
3. Installation and User-Friendliness: The unit is praised for being easy to install, with several users noting that it can be set up in less than an hour. This ease of installation is a substantial pro for those who prefer DIY solutions or want to avoid high installation costs.
4. Compact and Space-Saving Design: Its tankless design means it takes up less space, a crucial benefit for homes with limited space. Users have successfully installed it in areas like kitchen walls, highlighting its versatility in placement.
5. Consistent Hot Water Supply: The heater ensures a continuous supply of hot water, which is a major pro for households with high hot water demand. This feature eliminates the inconvenience of running out of hot water during showers.
6. Durability and Build Quality: Constructed from high-quality materials like stainless steel and oxygen-free copper, the heater is designed for longevity. Its resistance to corrosion and high temperatures enhances its lifespan.
7. Safety Features: The heater comes with multiple safety features, such as flame failure, anti-freezing, and overheating protections, ensuring a safe operation.
8. Temperature Control: With an LED smart digital display, users can easily adjust and control the water temperature, enhancing user experience and comfort.
9. Cold Climate Performance: The heater is effective in cold climates, as evidenced by users in Northern Michigan. It efficiently warms up cold water, making it suitable for use in areas with harsh winters.
10. Energy Saving: The advanced combustion technology in the heater decreases gas consumption and noise, making it an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient option.
11. Versatility in Applications: Its compact size and efficient performance make it suitable for a variety of settings, including homes, cabins, and apartments.

Cons:

1. Electrical Power Requirement: Unlike some models, the Forimo Heater requires plugging into an electrical outlet, which may be a con for those preferring battery-operated units or where electrical outlets are not conveniently located.
2. Installation Challenges: Despite being easy to install for most, a few users have encountered difficulties during installation, which might require professional assistance, adding to the overall cost.
3. Fixture Compatibility: The half-inch fixtures can be challenging to accommodate in some plumbing setups, potentially necessitating additional work or adaptors.
4. Dependence on Climate: While it performs well in cold climates, its efficiency is notably higher in warmer regions like California. This dependence on the incoming water temperature might reduce its effectiveness in extremely cold regions without additional measures like a circulation pump.
5. Size Limitations for Larger Homes: For larger homes with high hot water demand, the unit’s capacity might be insufficient, requiring consideration of additional solutions.
6. Weather-Related Precautions: In colder climates, users need to take extra precautions, such as draining residual water to prevent freezing if the heater is not used for an extended period.

Conclusion:

The Forimo Tankless Water Heater stands out for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improved performance compared to traditional models. Its easy installation, consistent hot water supply, and safety features make it a highly desirable option for many households. While there are some limitations, such as the electrical power requirement and challenges with simultaneous water usage, the pros significantly outweigh the cons. The unit’s versatility and performance in various climates, coupled with its energy-saving capabilities, make it a commendable choice for those seeking an efficient and reliable water heating solution.