Whirlpool Power Vent uses an atmospheric burner with fan-assisted PVC sidewall venting. Eliminates chimney requirement.
Power Vent lineup
When Power Vent is right
- No chimney available (common modern construction)
- Relocating water heater away from existing flue route
- Chimney dedicated to another appliance
- Sealed-envelope new construction
Install requirements
- 120V dedicated outlet within 6 ft of unit
- PVC sidewall venting (2" or 3", model-specific)
- Vent length per manual (typically 65-100 ft equivalent)
- Termination clearances per code
Vs atmospheric NU122
| Atmospheric NU122 | Power Vent NU-PWVT | |
|---|---|---|
| Venting | B-vent chimney | PVC sidewall |
| UEF | 0.60-0.62 | 0.67 |
| 120V outlet | Not needed | Required |
| Power outage | Works (mechanical) | Dead |
| Typical price (50-gal) | $649-849 | $1,149-1,399 |
Power Vent premium is $500+. Worth it when chimney isn\'t available.
Warranty
6 years tank / 6 years parts / 1 year labor.
Bottom line
Sidewall venting answer for chimneyless homes. Higher efficiency than atmospheric (0.67) but requires 120V.