Installing A Tankless Water Heater: A Quick Guide 

Did you know tankless water heaters need much more energy than traditional ones? They require between 90,000 to 130,000 BTUs of energy each hour. That’s way more than the 30,000 BTUs traditional heaters need. This big difference makes more people think about getting a tankless water heater.

In this guide, you’ll learn about installing a tankless water heater. You’ll see how they give you hot water on demand install a gas water heater for optimal efficiency. and can save space. Plus, they’re more efficient, which means they can save you money over time.

Tankless water heaters give you endless hot water. They also help save on energy costs. This guide will show you how to get your space ready and follow local rules for installation. It’s always smart to call a pro like JD’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning at 720-783-4879. They’ll make sure your new heater is installed safely and correctly.

Key Takeaways – Get Ready To Install New Tankless Water Heater

• Tankless water heaters require significantly more BTUs than traditional tank heaters.
• Upgrading your gas line may be necessary for tankless systems.
• Proper spacing and installing a tankless water heater according to manufacturer guidelines is crucial.
• Hiring a licensed contractor is recommended for safe installation.
• Installation tools include a pipe wrench, drill/driver, and keyhole saw for venting.
• Compliance with local plumbing and safety codes is essential.

Understanding Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless hot water heaters change how we use hot water. Unlike old tank heaters, they give us hot water when we need it. These new systems use a heat exchanger, which heats water fast as it passes through.

These systems last a long time, from 15 to 20 years. This is longer than the 10 to 15 years tank heaters last. Because of this, tankless heaters can save you money over time.

Tankless water heaters are also very energy-efficient and reduces energy cost. They don’t need to keep water hot all the time, which means they can lower your bills. They’re up to 34% more efficient for homes using 41 gallons or less daily.

Even though tankless heaters cost more upfront, about $2,600, they save money in the long run. They use less energy and have no standby losses, making them a smart choice for saving space and energy.

Benefits of Switching to a Tankless Water Heater

Choosing a tankless water heater can make your home more efficient and comfy. These units offer great efficiency and savings with tankless gas water heaters. They also offer energy efficiency and endless hot water. Knowing these perks can guide you to a smart choice for your home upgrade.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Tankless water heaters stand out for their amazing energy efficiency. They can save you 30-50% on energy over traditional heaters. This efficiency means real tankless water heater cost savings. Homeowners usually save $100 to $300 yearly on energy bills.

The cost for a tankless water heater ranges from $600 to $3,500. Electric models tend to cost more than gas ones. Installation costs about $3,000 on average but can vary between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on your needs.

Apart from the purchase price, tankless units can qualify for federal tax credits. Gas models could receive up to $300 in credits, and electric heat pump models can receive up to 30% of installation costs, maxing out at $1,500. These savings make switching a smart financial move.

Endless Hot Water Supply

The benefit of endless hot water is huge for families needing lots of hot water. Tankless heaters provide continuous hot water when needed, so you won’t run out. Most models offer 3-6 gallons per minute, which is enough for most homes.

A bigger unit is needed for big houses over 4,000 square feet or with more than five bathrooms. A high-capacity model delivers 11-13 gallons per minute, which meets the needs of larger homes.

In short, a tankless water heater brings energy efficiency and tankless water heater cost savings. It also ensures you have endless hot water for your needs. If you’re considering this option, call JD’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning at 720-783-4879 for expert help.

Pros And Cons Tankless Water Heater Installation

Exploring the pros and cons of tankless water heaters provides valuable information. Tankless water heaters are good for energy saving and using less space in homes. Based on the U.S. Department of Energy’s findings, they can cut energy costs by up to 50%, which means you can save about $80 a year. These heaters last around 20 years, double the lifetime of traditional ones. The trend toward tankless models is growing.

However, these systems have their downsides, too. The up-front cost of installing a tankless gas water heater averages over $1,700. This price includes the heater, which costs between $500 and $1,200. Tankless water heaters might struggle to supply enough hot water for big families, offering 2-5 gallons per minute. Plus, it might take 20 years to make back your initial cost through lower energy bills. So, it’s essential to think about these points carefully.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Energy savings of up to 50% compared to conventional heaters	Higher initial purchase and installation costs
Longer lifespan—about 20 years or more for tankless gas water heaters	Potential insufficient hot water flow for large households
Space-saving design	Installation may be complicated, particularly for gas models
Reduced environmental impact	Maintenance is needed to prevent mineral buildup

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages helps you choose wisely. If you go for a tankless water heater installation, consider calling experts like JD’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning at 720 783 4879 for help.

Before Installing a Tankless Water Heater

To prepare for installing a tankless water heater, you need to learn important rules and have the right tools. Start by understanding your local plumbing codes and rules. This will ensure that your installation is safe and lasts a long time. Knowing the requirements for tankless water heaters helps you follow the rules and avoid costly mistakes. Learn How to Install a Tankless Gas Water Heater.

Local Codes and Regulations

Before starting the installation process, ensure you have the necessary permits. Local codes have safety standards and installation rules. For example, tankless water heaters must have special venting systems, which prevent dangerous gases from leaking. Always check with local authorities to make this process smoother.

Tools You Will Need

Having the correct tools is key to a successful installation. Here’s a list of tools you might need:

• Pipe wrench
• Drill/driver
• Soldering kit
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Adjustment tools for gas connections

Using the right tools makes the job easier. It also ensures a safe and efficient setup of your tankless water heater. This leads to great performance for many years.

Choosing Between Gas and Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Choosing a tankless water heater means picking between gas and electric options. Each kind has unique benefits. Understanding these helps you make a choice that fits your needs.

Efficiency of Gas Models

Gas tankless heaters are known for fast heating and high output. They produce 5 to over 10 gallons per minute, which makes them great for homes with many people.

They’re about 85% efficient, which is good for big hot water users. They cost less to run in such situations. But, they might need more maintenance, affecting costs over time.

Considerations for Electric Units

Electric heaters have a lower starting price, from $400 to $2,500, without adding installation. They are best for smaller water needs and work well in areas where gas may be hard to get.

They are around 98% efficient, saving more money over time. Electric models also need less upkeep, just some filter cleaning. Switching from gas to electric, or the other way will cost more for system updates.

When choosing, think about price, set-up costs, how efficient they are, and your water use. Compare these to pick the best one for you.

Installing a Tankless Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide

Putting in a new tankless water heater takes important steps. These ensure a smooth change from an old tank water system to a new tankless gas water heater. First, remove the old water heater carefully. Then, the new unit will be mounted as the maker and laws require.

Removing the Old Water Heater

First, turn off the gas and water to ensure the area is safe. Then, drain the old heater by attaching a hose to it and letting the water flow out. After draining, disconnect the pipes and gas with the right tools. Getting rid of the old heater is key, too. If removing the old heater is hard, consider calling an expert. This keeps you safe and meets the rules.

Mounting the New Unit

Put the new tankless heater on a strong wall, as the maker’s guide says, for best support. Where you put, it impacts how well it works and if it’s easy to reach. Ensure the spot has enough air flow, can hold the unit’s weight, and is near gas or electric hookups. For step-by-step help on doing it yourself.

Step	Action
1	Turn off the water supply and gas
2	Drain the old unit
3	Disconnect the water and gas lines
4	Mount the new unit securely
5	Check for proper ventilation

By taking these steps, your new tankless water heater will work better. This means saving money on bills and having it last longer.

Upgrading Your Gas Line or Electrical Supply

Switching to a tankless water heater might mean upgrading your gas line or electrical supply. Both gas and electric systems must be the right size to ensure your new heater works at its best.

Importance of Sizing the Gas Line

The size of your gas line really matters for your tankless water heater and other home appliances. A gas line that’s too small can mess with the gas flow. This affects how well your heater works and its stability. The gas line size you need depends on your heater’s BTU rating, what your other appliances need, and the natural gas pressure.

Old tankless heaters needed big gas lines because they used a lot of BTUs. If you’re unsure whether your gas line is big enough, you should check the BTU needs of all your appliances compared to your gas line. It’s a good idea to talk to a licensed plumber. They can ensure your gas line meets the needs of your new heater. Check out this resource for more details.

Electrical Requirements for Electric Units

The right electrical setup is just as crucial for electric heaters. You might need more circuit breakers and bigger wires for these heaters. Older electric heaters often had problems because they didn’t get enough power. Talking to an electrician can help you figure out what you need.

Before you install anything, see if your home’s electric system can handle the new heater. Many new electric heaters use less energy and still perform well. Planning can make adding a heater like those from Marey easy and cost-effective.

Specification	Gas Tankless-Water Heater	Electric Tankless-Water Heater
Typical BTU Output	120,000 – 199,000	N/A
Gas Line Size	¾ inches recommended	N/A
Common Electrical Requirements	N/A	240V, dedicated circuits
Cost to Upgrade	$500 – $2,000	Cost is variable depending on the installation of the gas supply for the unit.
Average Supply Line Cost	$12 – $25 per linear foot	N/A

Connecting Water Supply Lines

Hooking up water lines to your new water heater is crucial for it to work well. Making sure water connections are right is key for top performance and savings. We will show you how to hook them up, remind you to check for leaks and follow the installation rules.

Hot and Cold Water Connections

Start by getting the hot and cold water pipes ready for hookup. Here’s what to do to install the water lines:

• Shut off the main water to avoid leaks while setting up.
• Measure and cut the copper pipes to fit using a pipe cutter.
• Clean the ends of the pipes with a wire brush for a good fit.
• Put flux on the ends before soldering for a strong bond.
• Attach the pipes to the hot and cold inlets on the heater.

For gas lines, corrugated stainless steel tubing might work better in some places and makes setup easier. Always check your local guide for the right materials and methods.

Checking for Leaks

After you’re done connecting, looking for leaks is vital. Here’s how to do it right:

• Slowly turn back on the main water supply.
• Look closely at all joints and connections for wet spots.
• Look for drips or moisture for at least a day.
• Using a pressure test can help find leaks you might miss.

Ensuring your connections don’t leak is important for keeping the system working well and avoiding water damage. If you’re stuck or need help during setup, call JD’s at 720-783-4879 for expert advice.

Venting Requirements for Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Proper venting is key for gas tankless heaters. It helps get rid of combustion gases and brings in fresh air. Different venting options work best for different spaces and types of gas water heaters. Knowing these venting requirements promotes safety and meets regulatory standards.

Types of Vents

There are several vents to consider for gas models:

• Direct Venting: Uses two pipes for air intake and exhaust. It’s best for tight spaces needing air flow and gas removal.
• Concentric Venting: Uses one larger pipe for both needs. This makes the setup neater.
• Standard Venting: Can use existing vents if there’s enough space. However, it cannot mix with other systems like chimneys.

Installation of Exhaust Vent

Installing the exhaust vent correctly is essential:

1. First, check the exhaust’s temperature to choose the right material. High temperatures require metal, while lower ones can use PVC.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s advice for the vent. Propane models might need stainless steel or certain plastics.
3. Always check local codes before you start. Don’t use old vents from previous heaters.
4. Finally, attach the vent to your new unit securely. This stops leaks and keeps it safe.

Completing the Installation Process

After mounting and connecting your tankless water heater, it’s time to finish setting it up. This important step involves turning on the water and checking that everything works right. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s startup steps.

Turning on the Water Supply

Start by slowly opening the water valve to your water heater. Look out for any leaks at the connections. Leaks can cause big problems if ignored. Increasing the water pressure slowly helps find issues early. This careful approach means you’re doing everything correctly.

Testing and Final Checks

Then, start checking how things are working. This part includes:

• Looking for leaks at all water spots
• Making sure the power works
• Checking that gas units have good airflow
• Ensuring gas connections are safe
• Checking the pressure relief valve
• Testing water speed for good performance at the hot water faucet

After these checks, your water heater should give you steady hot water. Keeping up with regular upkeep keeps it running well. If something goes wrong, it’s a good idea to call a licensed professional plumber.  Also, How to Troubleshoot a Hot Water Heater.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide sums up key points about installing a tankless water heater. These heaters offer many advantages, including energy-efficiency and a life of over 20 years. However, due to their complexity, installing them can be tricky. It’s best to hire pros to ensure everything complies with local rules.

Regular upkeep, like flushing sediment every two years, is crucial. It helps your system last longer. Make sure it’s well-ventilated and properly connected to gas and electrical lines. This ensures it runs safely and effectively. If you need help, contact us at JD’s Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning 720 783 4879 for expert plumbing services and advice.

Switching to a tankless system does have upfront costs. However, the money you save on energy can make it a smart choice. Paying attention to installation instructions and maintenance will ensure your system provides reliable hot water for many years.

FAQ

What Is A Tankless Water Heater?

Unlike traditional heaters that store water, a tankless heater heats the water on the spot. This means you get hot water whenever you need it, unlike a conventional water heater.

What Are The Benefits Of Switching To A Tankless-Water Heater?

They save energy and reduce utility bills. Plus, they provide a constant hot water supply. This is great for big families.

Do Tankless Heaters Require Special Installation Considerations?

Yes, the setup is more complex. You might need to upgrade your gas lines and electrical system. Local building codes also apply.

How Do I Know If I Should Choose A Gas Or Electric Tankless-Water Heater?

Gas heaters recover faster and have a higher output. Electric water heaters are simpler to install. But, they might need significant electrical work.

What Tools Do I Need For Installing A Tankless-Water Heater?

You’ll need a pipe wrench, drill/driver, and a soldering kit. Some installations may require extra plumbing or electrical tools.

How Do I Connect The Water Supply Lines To My New Heater?

Connect the hot and cold water lines by cutting, soldering, and securing them. Always check for leaks to ensure everything is properly connected.

What Type Of Ventilation Do Gas Tankless-Water Heaters Require?

Gas models must vent outside to remove combustion gases. You’ll need direct venting that meets the maker’s guidelines and follow local codes.

Can I DIY Install A Tankless Heater Myself?

You can try to install it yourself, but the complexity of the installation may be difficult. It’s often safer to get a licensed plumber. They ensure everything meets safety standards.

What If I Need To Upgrade My Gas Line Or Electrical Supply?

Upgrades may be necessary for both gas and electric tankless heaters. A professional can advise you on this. They’ll let you know what changes are needed.

What Is The Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost?

The installation cost typically ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on factors like unit type, installation complexity, and regional labor rates.

What Are The Different Types Of Water Heaters?

The different types of water heaters include conventional storage tank water heaters, tankless (on-demand) water heaters, heat pump water heaters, solar water heaters, and condensing water heaters. Each type varies in energy source, efficiency, capacity, and installation method, catering to different household needs and energy savings goals.