Paloma PH2-28 Water Heaters
(9.5 Series) Review and Buying Tips
(updated 2018)

A review of the Paloma tankless water heaters from 9.5 (PH2-28) series, for use in large homes with the high hot water demand. Explore Paloma PH2-25 top features and see how these tankless units can save you money and time.

Models review

As found among other Paloma tankless water heaters, 9.5 series comes in two models; indoor and outdoor, using both natural and propane gas for heating potable water:

PH2-28RDVSN - indoor direct vent model, powered by natural gas
PH2-28ROFN - outdoor mode,l powered by natural gas
PH2-28RDVSP - indoor direct vent model, powered by propane gas
PH2-28ROFP - outdoor model, powered by propane gas

Paloma 9.5 units are the largest non-condensing tankless water heaters from this manufacturer, and with the highest water flow and gas input rate. The heaters can also be used in commercial applications, as long as the conversion (installation of the commercial chip) is done per manufacturer's instructions.

Features and benefits

Power and efficiency

All Paloma 9.5 tankless water heaters are designed with the modulating gas valve, which allows them to work in the range from the minimum power of 11,000 BTU to the maximum power of 199,900 BTU. When working with the full capacity it can provide a high water flow rate of 9.5 GPM that ensures the comfortable multiple-shower use, and the high thermal efficiency of 84 %, providing decent savings either using the propane or natural gas.

The energy-saving modulation won't be that efficient if there is no help of the advanced microprocessor, which controls many parameters during the water heating operation.

Adjusting temperature and remote control

The operating temperature is factory set between 100 F and 120 F while the temperatures from 85 F to 140 F can be achieved and regulated on the Main remote control (UMC-117), which is supplied with the unit.

The remote controller is very simple, it allows you to adjust and monitor the temperature in F, while the LED screen displays the water temperature, and if there is a problem, an error code.

Capacity and flow rate

Because of its high-volume capacity, Paloma 9.5 models are the whole-house water heaters, able to provide enough hot water for up to three simultaneous showers in colder regions (flow rate is 5.2 GPM when the incoming water temperature is 60 F) and even more in warmer regions (the maximum flow rate is 9.5 GPM).

If there is a demand for more hot water, the DUOnex system can be used, which allows connection of the two units into one system. Such a system known as DUO system gives the First Hour Rating of 525 gallons.

Venting

Paloma 9.5 water heater PH2-28RDVSN is the indoor and direct vent model that utilizes the 3" x 5" stainless steel concentric venting and the electric blower for the safe removal of the exhaust gases out, either horizontally through the wall or vertically through the roof.

PH2-28ROFN model is the outdoor model that does not require any venting (it uses the flue terminal), and it must not be installed indoors or in an enclosure. The remote controller is also supplied with the outdoor models but must not be installed outdoor.

Protection

Paloma 9.5 tankless water heaters, as other Paloma models, are equipped with the exclusive sensing burner and ICAD safety system that optimize the combustion and protect the user if there is an increased level of carbon monoxide (CO).

And if the water heater fails to heat the water, the self-diagnostic program will register it, and the error code will display on the LED screen of the remote control.

These units are very safe as they are designed with several features, which protect against scalding, carbon monoxide leak, fire (thanks to the Overheat Limiter Wrap), anti-boil and freezing. The freeze protection system uses the electric heater to prevent freezing inside the water heater, only if the temperature does not drop below 30 F.

Specifications

Models/Features	PH2-28RDVSN	PH2-28ROFN
Gas input (BTU)	11,000 199,900	11,000 199,900
Water flow (GPM)	0.4-9.5	0.4-9.5
Energy Factor EF	0.82	0.82
Temp. settings (F)	98-140 (185)	98-140 (185)
Vent size (ft)	3"/5" - 36	N/A
Altitude height (ft)	3280	3280
Size (inch)	13 7/8 x 25 5/8 x 9 7/8	13 7/8 x 23 5/8 x 8 7/8
Weight (lbs)	55	55

Feature highlights

Energy saving design
Low NOx compliant
ICAD system to optimize gas combustion and protect from carbon monoxide poisoning
Compact and space saving - wall mount
DUOnex ready to connect two units
Electronic manifold ready to connect up to 20 units
Can be installed as part of the circulating system
Self-diagnostic and error system
Standard gas and water connections of 3/4"
Protected using the flame rod, anti-boil, anti-scald, overheating and anti-freeze systems
Can be used in commercial applications
Warranty; 12 years on the heat exchanger and 5 years on other parts