Tankless water heaters are compact units that heat water on demand, saving space and energy. Installing a tankless water heater can cut energy costs by up to 34% compared to traditional tank models. This efficiency comes from not keeping a large tank of constantly hot water. Instead, tankless units heat water only when needed, meaning less wasted energy.
While installation can be tricky, the long-term gains are worth it. We'll guide you through the process to ensure you get it right.
Tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water without a storage tank. They heat water quickly as it flows through the unit, helping to save energy and provide endless hot water.
Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than traditional tanks because they only heat water when needed, cutting energy waste and leading to lower utility bills.
The heat exchanger is key to their efficiency. It transfers heat from gas or electric elements to the water and many new models have better insulation and heat transfer, boosting efficiency. Typical savings are around 24-34% in energy costs for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, but homes using more hot water can still save 8-14%.
Flow rate is crucial for tankless heaters and is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Most units provide 2-5 GPM. Smaller units may struggle with multiple uses at once and a 2 GPM unit can handle a shower or dishwasher, but not both. Larger units can manage several tasks simultaneously. For example, a 5 GPM unit can run two showers and a sink at the same time.
Climate also affects flow rate and colder areas need more powerful units to heat water quickly.
Tankless water heaters have built-in safety features to protect homes against overheating and high pressure. Many models have a self-diagnostic system that alerts users to problems before they become serious. Gas models need proper venting as this removes combustion gases safely and all units should have temperature controls to prevent scalding and save energy.
Planning is key for a smooth tankless water heater installation. We'll cover the tools and requirements, regulations to follow, and how to pick the right spot for your new unit.
To install a tankless water heater, you need the right tools. A stud finder helps locate wall supports for mounting, and you’ll also need wrenches, pipe cutters, and a drill. Don't forget safety gear like gloves and goggles.
Pipe insulation is important to prevent heat loss and you’ll need Teflon tape and pipe sealant on hand for connections. A voltage tester is useful for electrical work and for gas units, you may need a gas line sizing tool and venting materials.
Following local rules is a must and you need to check building codes for a tankless water heater installation. Plumbing codes set standards for water line connections and you must follow electrical codes for electric heaters. Gas heaters have special venting rules and some areas require permits before installation starts.
Picking the right spot is crucial as the unit needs easy access to hot water pipes and power sources. For gas units, it needs to be near the gas line. Wall space is important as the unit needs strong support which is why you should use a stud finder to locate wall studs.
Ventilation is vital, especially for gas heaters and you’ll need to plan the vent path carefully. Read the manual carefully as some units use special concentric vents. Also, avoid areas prone to freezing. Indoor installations are best in cold climates, while outdoor units work well in warmer areas, but need protection from the elements.
Installing a tankless water heater requires careful attention to detail, carefully following key steps to properly mount the unit, connect water lines, and set up power and venting.
The first step is to attach the mounting bracket securely to the wall, finding wall studs using a stud finder and marking the spots where you'll drill pilot holes. Use a level to make sure the bracket is straight, drill the pilot holes, and screw the bracket tightly to the wall studs. This provides a stable base for the heater.
For heavier gas units, you may need extra support brackets. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for weight limits and bracket placement.
Next, hook up the water lines by connecting the cold water inlet and hot water outlet pipes to the unit. Use flexible pipes to reduce strain on connections. Install shut-off valves on both lines for easy maintenance and put a sediment trap on the cold water line to catch debris.
Wrap pipe threads with Teflon tape for a good seal and tighten all fittings, but don't overdo it. Once finished, check for leaks by running water through the system.
For electric models, you’ll need to wire the unit to the home's electrical system and this often requires a dedicated circuit.
Gas units need proper venting which means installing vent pipes to safely remove exhaust gases. Use approved materials like stainless steel or PVC, depending on the heater type. Make sure the vents slope slightly upward so they terminate outside, and seal all joints to prevent leaks. Remember to check for leaks once the gas line has been connected.
After installing a tankless water heater, you need to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. Proper maintenance and performance optimization are key to getting the most out of the new system.
We recommend setting up regular heater maintenance checks for the tankless water heater. Additionally, flush the system every 6-12 months to remove mineral buildup as this keeps the heat exchanger clean and working well.
To flush:
Check the drain valve and condensate pump yearly, cleaning or replacing parts as needed. You should also have a licensed contractor do a full inspection once a year.
First, set the optimal temperature on the unit and most manufacturers suggest 120°F for safety and energy savings. Check the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) and ensure it matches your household needs. If it's too low, you may need to adjust the settings or add a recirculation pump.
Monitor energy use over the first few months and compare it to old bills to analyze the savings. If it's higher than expected, have a professional check the system and make necessary adjustments.
Get in touch to arrange a professional installation of your water or an annual inspection of your existing unit.
