flatplate vs sidearm vs shell hx?

[MNBobcat]

Hi Guys,

I could use some advice. I currently have two 80 gallon electric hot water heaters set up on off-peak electric. I'm in the process of installing an outdoor wood boiler and I need to make a decision on the best hx for my dhw. What would you guys recommend? What are the pros and cons of the 3 different options?

Thanks!

 

[kabbott]

Side arm is cheap and uses no extra power. Downside is they are slowwwwww at heating up a large tank of water.If your OWB loop is going to run
constantly then you may be OK with a sidearm(or two). They are cheap so if it does not keep up you are not out a lot of dough. If you need to heat two
80 gallon tanks fast you better go with a flat plate and it's extra pumps and controls.

 

[rowerwet]

side arm is a shell HX as far as I know, other wise what he said above.