24 Sep Your Guide to Installing a Tankless Water Heater
Installing a Tankless Water Heater |
---|
When installing a tankless water heater, you need a professional who understands the complexities of these systems. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler, we specialize in offering top-of-the-line plumbing services to homeowners throughout Tyler, Longview, Whitehouse, TX, and surrounding areas.
Our tankless water heater pros have years of experience. They can install a tankless water heater in your home to improve energy efficiency and provide reliable service for years.
Benefits of Installing a Tankless Water Heater
When it comes time to replace your old water heater, you might have heard tankless is the better choice. Indeed, many homeowners are switching to tankless water heater models after their traditional tank water heaters reach their limit.
Endless Hot Water
Tankless models heat water on demand, so you heat cold water on demand. The ability to heat water continuously means tankless units often provide more consistent flow than tank models.
Improved Energy Efficiency
The heat exchanger in a tankless water heater only turns cold water hot when you want it to. This means it’s not constantly running to maintain a warm temperature. Ultimately, this leads to lower utility costs and a more energy-efficient home.
Space-Saving
Thanks to their compact size, tankless water heaters free up space and give you more room in your home, whether in a closet or basement.
Longer Lifespan
Tankless water heaters last up to 20 years compared to a traditional tank water heater’s average 10 to 15-year lifespan. Since they can last twice as long and cost less, this gives them a high return on investment.
Considerations Before Installing a Tankless Water Heater
Before you install a tankless water heater, consider these important factors:
Higher Initial Cost
A new tankless water heater costs several thousand dollars more than installing a new tank water heater. This is because tankless water heaters require modifying your home’s plumbing system and possibly upgrading your gas line.
Although this can be a steep price difference, homeowners can feel confident knowing they’re buying a water heater meant to last for decades. Our team doesn’t just install tankless water heaters; we also offer maintenance and repair services to keep your new water heater operating perfectly.
Installation Requirements
Tankless water heater installation is not a DIY job. You need to enlist the skills and services of a professional, qualified plumber like Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler. Our team belongs to a national network of highly trained, licensed, and insured plumbers that deliver expert, punctual service.
Your tankless water heater pros will go above and beyond to ensure your new installation perfectly fits your home.
Fuel Source
Depending on your chosen model or your home’s current infrastructure, you may need to upgrade your gas line or electric setup. Rest assured, a professional can offer all the guidance you need and let you know exactly how much work is required to get your new tankless water heater installed and running perfectly.
Hot Water Usage
Before installing a tankless water heater, evaluating your home’s water usage and ensuring that a tankless model can meet your needs are important.
If you aren’t 100% sure whether a tankless water heater is the best option for you, reach out to us! One of our tankless water heater pros would be happy to perform a home assessment and recommend the right model for you.
Tankless Water Heater Installation: What to Expect
Once you’ve decided on a tankless water heater for your home, the first step is to find qualified plumbers near you. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler has tankless water heater pros ready to help you find the perfect model and install it without a hitch.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you can expect if you install a tankless model in your home.
Initial Consultation
Unlike a tank-style water heater, tankless models need additional preparation. They are a more modern version of a water heater with unique demands due to gas units and the heat exchanger that heats cold water on demand.
A licensed plumber, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler, will assess your needs and recommend a suitable tankless model depending on your home’s size and water usage. They will also let you know different cost facts and give you an accurate, detailed estimate for the total cost of installation.
Site Preparation
Additional modifications may be needed before your new tankless unit is installed. Tank-style water heaters and tankless units need a water supply and gas to run. Still, their design means you may need to change the line type, upgrade your plumbing, and install venting solutions.
The fuel type of your tankless unit may also differ; some can run solely on electricity, but this will generally require additional installation costs from an experienced electrician.
Installation Process
Your plumber will connect your stainless steel tankless water heater to water pipes, gas lines (if applicable), and the ventilation system. Our team follows every safety requirement to ensure a smooth installation.
Safety Checks and Testing
A plumber has the skills and experience to thoroughly assess a tankless water heater and ensure it operates according to code. They will test it to ensure there is no risk of scalding or burns, that it vents properly, and that there are no gas leaks or risk of electrical malfunction.
Training and Maintenance
A good plumber will give you full instructions and a walkthrough on using your new water heater. When their job is done right, you don’t have to worry! It’s as simple as turning on the faucet. But when it comes to temperature adjustments or maintenance, they’ll leave you fully equipped to make changes and ensure your questions are answered.
Where to Install a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters go near a home’s main water supply. They can sometimes go in attics or basements, and they may be able to replace a tank model depending on its location. You will have to consider the position of electric units and whether or not you can install a gas line if you purchase a gas tankless water heater.
Can tankless water heaters be installed outside?
Some tankless water heaters may be able to be installed outside. Still, there are significant limitations due to weather and access to water pipes and a fuel source. In most cases, plumbers recommend installing tankless units indoors to prevent corrosion and other damage.
Can tankless water heaters be installed in the attic or garage?
A plumber can install a tankless unit in an attic or garage if there is enough room to access the location for maintenance. They will also need to ensure that the location provides adequate ventilation for the unit.
Ideal Location for a Tankless Water Heater
We recommend installing your tankless water heater in a well-ventilated, easily accessible location close to the main water lines. One of our plumbers can inspect your home and recommend the best place for your new unit.
Installing a Tankless Water Heater FAQs
Some types of tankless water heaters use electricity for safety and performance. While a gas tankless water heater is more common, there are electric-powered models you can find that will work well in a home that doesn’t have the appropriate gas setup or who wants a solely electric model.
If needed, you can winterize your tankless water heater with insulation to help prevent freezing. Your plumber can also offer suggestions on winterizing water pipes to prevent freezing. You likely won’t have to worry about this in Texas, especially if your water heater is installed indoors.
Yes, tankless water heaters run on electricity instead of gas. A plumber can recommend electric models as an alternative option.
Installing a tankless water heater is a great investment for many homeowners, especially those with a high hot water demand who frequently struggle with a tank model. Because they are long-lasting and energy-efficient, tankless water heaters can be an excellent home upgrade that improves comfort and increases property value.
Tankless Water Heater Installation Near Me
The tankless water heater pros at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler. We offer personalized, expert installation to help maximize your home’s energy efficiency and improve its hot water supply.
To get started, schedule an appointment online or call us at (903) 730-6611.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Tyler serves the East Texas cities of Kilgore, Longview, Tyler, and Whitehouse with a team of certified plumbers. In addition to emergency plumbing repair, some of the plumbing services provided by the company include faucet repair, drain services, toilet repair, plumbing fixture installations, tub and shower installations, kitchen sink repair, faucet installation, water heater repair/replacement, and garbage disposal replacement. Call us today at (903) 730-6611 to schedule an appointment!