Switching over to a tankless water heater would be the most fantastic way for a homeowner to save money on their utilities and have an unlimited supply of hot water. One big reason why it is so efficient is that these water heaters turn on, provide hot water when it is needed, and keep nothing heated to a large degree to allow an on-demand supply.
The main challenge associated with the installation of a tankless water heater lies in the fact that there are more steps involved than with other systems. In addition to the placement of the existing unit and its replacement with the new one, attention must be paid to the connections of the pipes and venting.
Understanding Tankless Water Heaters
The tankless water heater is an on-demand water heater that only heats water when needed. They store no water, which conserves both energy and space. Unlike water heaters that have a large tank for hot water, the on-demand water heater only brings cold water to a heat exchanger and then warms it when the tap is turned on by gas or electric coils.
When you switch on a hot water tap, cold water flows into the unit via the cold water inlet pipe. The flow switch recognizes the movement of the water and switches the required power supply on for the appropriate burners and heating elements, and hot water is produced in the unit. Water cycles through a heat exchanger and reaches the correct temperature almost instantly – sometimes in under a minute – before flowing to your outlets, appliances, or showerheads. As soon as the tap is switched off, the heating elements shut off.
The reason why you can’t run out of hot water in a tankless system is that the heating elements are never shut off if the tap is open and more cold water enters to be heated. Tankless systems are generally mounted on a wall, saving tremendous amounts of floor space compared to storage tank heaters (good for a small house or a huge one). A good, quality tankless water heater can perform at an energy-efficient rate for between 15 and 20 years if maintained properly with regular checks of the filter.
Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater
Choosing the right size for your Water Heater. Along with picking the right system is choosing the correct size unit that fits you and your family’s needs.
Calculate Your Household’s Hot Water Demand
First, you have to calculate the max gallons per minute (GPM) that you are using in your home at any given time. To get the desired number, you have to add up the rates of all the fixtures that you can use at the same time (for example, shower and dishwasher).
In addition, you have to consider the temperatures in the area where you are going to install the system. If the ground temperature is low, you will have to invest in a more powerful model since you will need to increase the temperature of the water to a certain degree.
Select the Best Fuel Type
Several methods will work depending on the kind of infrastructure you have at home and the water temperature you’re after.
- Gas water heaters provide greater flow for a large family.
- Electric units are small, energy-efficient, and venting is not required.
- Point-of-use water heaters for use on a single faucet or sink.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Before you start installing, collect all the necessary materials.
Essential Tools
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Pipe cutter
- Cordless drill
- Screwdrivers
- Level
- Voltage tester
- Measuring tape
- Drill bits
- Gas leak detection solution (for gas models)
Required Materials
- Tankless water heater
- Isolation valves
- Copper or PEX piping
- Pipe fittings
- Pressure relief valve
- Mounting hardware
- Vent pipe (gas models)
- Flexible gas connector (if applicable)
How to Install Tankless Water Heater : Step by Step
Following all steps properly will provide you with a secure, credible, as well as a hassle-free setup.
Step 1: Mount the Unit Securely
Position the finder, then mark the drywall location of the studs, and attach the wall mount. Then, hang the unit and check that it is square, and then secure the mount to the wall with all the screws provided.
Step 2: Connect the Water Lines
Before you connect your home plumbing to it, you’ll want to attach your hot and cold shut-off valves. These will really come in handy down the road if you ever need to flush the system and perform maintenance. You will connect the cold water inlet and the hot water outlet to your home’s plumbing.
Step 3: Install the Gas or Electrical Connections
Tankless gas water heater installation – Install the gas supply line, using an approved gas line that meets all local plumbing codes. If your water heater requires one, install a sediment trap, and be sure to test all connections for leaks before powering up. Electric tankless water heater installation – Hook up your water heater to the proper electrical circuits. Ensure your circuit breakers, grounding, and wire sizes are all in line before powering on your unit.
Step 4: Install the Venting System
All gas heating equipment needs a suitable vent in order to exhaust the products of combustion. Use only vent materials approved by the manufacturer and make sure that there is enough space between the vent and windows, doors, and air vents.
Step 5: Test the System
Now it is time to turn the water back on and check every joint and connection for leaks. Flip the gas and/or electric service back on, and then turn a few of the hot water taps and showerheads on in various places throughout the house.
You can read about: How Much to Install Tankless Water Heater
Gas vs. Electric Tankless Water Heater Installation
The decision of whether a gas system or an electric system is the best for your house all depends on your plumbing, electricity, budget, and hot water demands. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Feature | Gas Tankless Water Heater | Electric Tankless Water Heater |
Fuel Source | Natural gas or propane | Electricity |
Venting Required | Yes | No |
Installation Complexity | Higher | Moderate |
Hot Water Capacity | Best for large households | Ideal for small to medium homes |
Operating Cost | Generally lower where gas is available | Depends on local electricity rates |
The installation for a tankless gas water heater generally needs new vents, and if your home doesn’t already have them, it needs a larger gas line.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
If you make just one tiny error during installation, your water heater’s lifespan and efficiency can be significantly reduced. Here are the top installation blunders to dodge:
- Using the wrong vent materials for a gas water heater.
- Not installing isolation valves for easy future maintenance.
- Forgoing a leak check on gas or water connections.
- Not adhering to electrical standards for high-power electric models.
How to Make Your Equipment Last
Service your tankless water heater regularly for best performance and efficiency. Proper service will help you increase the life of your unit. Perform a heat exchanger flush at least annually to rid the unit of build-up. This matters more if you live in an area where your water supply is hard. Regularly inspect and clean your water inlet screen so there are no clogs. Make sure the air intake screen is clean and so is the gas cap, too.
At best, check your water connections and pipes for leaks. Always follow the maintenance instructions from the unit’s manufacturer to preserve efficiency and avoid unplanned failures in your tankless water heater.
Conclusion
Knowing how to install tankless water heater helps homeowners visualize how a project can get accomplished – including project planning. From choosing a unit to connecting hot water lines, gas lines, or electrical wires, the whole installation works together to maintain system efficiency, performance, and safe installation.
While some experienced DIY homeowners could handle their own installations, some jobs must be done by a professional to comply with local building codes and manufacturer warranties. Proper tankless water heater installation guarantees customers years of steady, energy-saving, trouble-free use.
For a safe, efficient, and hassle-free upgrade, trust Derks Plumbing. Our licensed technicians provide expert Tankless Water Heater Installation in Eagle Rock, ensuring every system is installed to meet local building codes and deliver reliable, energy-efficient performance for years to come.
FAQs
Does every tankless water heater require venting?
Is there a venting requirement? No. Electric units have no venting system. A venting system is required for gas-powered models.
What size tankless water heater do I need?
Determine the correct size for your hot water needs by taking into account the number of gallons per minute needed to supply your biggest load and the temperature rise needed given the local climate conditions.
