Installing a Tankless Water Heater in Your Home: The Ultimate Guide
Installing a tankless water heater in your home comes with its set of perks, such as energy efficiency, unlimited hot water supply, and space-saving options. If you’re considering making the switch, it’s essential to understand the installation process.
The tankless water heater installation process requires careful planning and professional expertise. The main reason for this is to ensure the right sizing, placement, and connection to the elements in the existing plumbing and electrical systems in your home.
If you aren’t sure how to install a tankless water heater, we are here to help! We’ll elaborate on the basic steps of installing a tankless water heater on your own and hopefully help you navigate the whole process safely and easily.
The Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
Besides being a self-sufficient investment, tankless water heaters offer several benefits, especially in a head-to-head comparison to classic tank-based water heaters. If you’re wondering about the tankless water heater installation cost, would you be surprised to know it ranges from $2,000 to $4,500?
Below you will find five of the most useful benefits of tankless water heaters:
- Energy efficiency: Tankless water heaters will only heat water when needed, which eradicates the usual heat loss in regular water heater tanks. This energy-efficient alternative is great for saving quite a few bucks on utility bills.
- Unlimited hot water: If you’ve decided to install tankless water heater, you have ensured y have hot water whenever you need it; no more cuts on showers ‘cause you ran out of hot water. These water hearts work by heating water instantaneously, which translates to a continuous supply of hot water for more appliances than one.
- Space-saving design: Installing tankless water heater is a great space-saver, especially in confined spaces. The design of these water heaters allows for the unit to be wall mounted in tight spots (closets, utility rooms, etc.), which frees up space for other uses.
- Longer lifespan: On average, tankless water heaters last longer than standard tank-based water heaters in most households. With regular and proper maintenance, tankless water heaters can last 20+ years, compared to traditional water heater tanks that may need replacement after 10-15 years.
- Minimized tank leaks: Tankless water heaters eliminate the risk of tank leaks or ruptures that subsequently lead to structural damages caused by leaking water. Since there’s no stored water, the potential for leaks and subsequent property damage is minimized.
The benefits we listed make water heater tankless installation a no-brainer. Homeowners looking to maximize their energy efficiency, have hot water on demand, and optimize their space, will love having a tankless water heater in their homes.
Not to forget, enjoying some peace of mind knowing that potential water damage risks are out of the way makes installing a tankless water heater a greater necessity.
Tankless Water Heater Installation: Step-by-Step
If you’re wondering how to install tankless water heater, know that the process requires focus and preparedness. For those without any technical skills, installing a tankless water heater might be a tad complex.
If you’d rather not risk it, let professionals handle the installation, and stay on the safe side.
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Remove the Existing Water Heater
Make sure you know the size of the main gas pipe before starting anything. Connect a big pipe to the gas meter, as this heater consumes more gas than big furnaces typically found in households. If you don’t know for sure, simply contact your gas provider and get the info you need.
Next, turn off the valves, and the water and power supply to the existing heater. Proceed by draining and removing the heater before you discard it properly.
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Secure New Gas and Water Lines For the Heater
To link the new supply line on your new water heater, it’s best that you use a black pipe.
Copper pipes are great for connecting existing water lines. Next up, adjust the lines to fit tour new water heater. If the system has an anti-siphon check valve, you can keep an expansion tank at the cold water inlet of the unit.
Proceed by securing the pipes to the wall using bell hangers. And lastly, flux the end of the piping. Wrap up the step by attaching the piping to the connectors, and fuse it all together (use a hand-held torch). Don’t forget to heat up the copper pipe before you solder it.
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Place the Heater on a Platform
When we said that installing tankless water heater takes preparation, we meant this: have 2 pieces of lumber (4-inch each) to fashion out a platform. Find a well-ventilated area in the room to place the platform you made.
Put the new water heater on the platform and ensure nothing around it can damage it.
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Install the Water Heater
Inspect if the water heater has drain and purge valves (use the instruction manual to make sure), and connect the heater with the sediment trap and shut-off valve. Next, connect the gas supply line to the shut-off valve.
Make sure the valves are securely fixed on the water supply line on the heater, and then look for any leaks (do it by turning on the water supply). If there is no leakage, repeat the same process for the gas lines. Once you set up everything, switch off the gas until the unit is all ready for use.
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Fix the New Vent
When it comes to fixing the new vent, first find the vent shaft and encircle it with silicone sealants (these are best because they can handle the heat). Next up, add a connector and tighten it with a hose clamp.
Lastly, place the retaining ring on the tube and fold over the taps for added security.
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Switch on the Tankless Water Heater
Run some hot water from the faucet to make sure there is no air inside the plumbing and the unit. In a couple of minutes, turn off the water and plug in your new water heater.
Insulate the main pipe that supplies the hot water from the heater before you switch on the gas.
The Ups and Downs of Installing a Tankless Water Heater Yourself
Installing a water heater yourself can save money, but it isn’t without a few drawbacks.
When it comes to the pros of DIY tankless water heater installation, they include the following:
- Budget-friendly
- It’s a flexible and convenient alternative to a professional installation
- It’s a great learning experience.
But do you really want to risk damaging the unit before even using it? Installing a tankless water heater by yourself is super risky, especially if you haven’t done anything like it so far.
The cons of DIY tankless water heater installation include:
- Potential safety hazards
- Costly improper installation
- Leaks or damages
- Voiding warranties and more.
Installing Tankless Water Heater: DIY or Professional?
Calling a professional ensures proper installation, adherence to building codes, safety, warranty protection, and expert advice. It may involve additional costs, but the peace of mind and avoiding potential issues make professional installation a worthwhile investment.
If you’ve decided to hire our professionals at Cummings Plumbing, rest assured you’ve reached the best solution! With our experienced technicians, installing tankless water heater is done in no time.
Being in the business for 36 years helped us become the leaders in heating and cooling services, specializing in reliable, seamless installations.
Don’t risk DIY mishaps or subpar installations – trust Cummings Plumbing for professional tankless water heater installation that exceeds your expectations. Reach out to us today for a free estimate.
Final Words on Water Heater Tankless Installation
Hands down, installing a tankless water heater comes with a number of perks, such as energy efficiency and unlimited hot water supply. But, if you decide to make the switch from a standard water heater to a tankless one, make sure you do it with the help of a professional.
DIY installation may provide cost savings and personal satisfaction but comes with potential risks and challenges. To ensure a safe and proper installation, it is often best to rely on the expertise of professional plumbers who can navigate complex connections and provide warranty protection.
Let yourself enjoy some peace of mind while professionals handle your investment.
FAQs
Is it hard to replace a water heater with a tankless water heater?
It’s not necessarily hard as it is challenging due to complex electrical and plumbing work.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
Depending on who’s installing, the process can last several hours.
What is involved in changing to a tankless water heater?
There are a few reasons why homeowners decide to switch from standard water heaters to tankless ones. What motivates people to make the switch is energy efficiency, reduced risk of water damage, and longer lifespan of the unit.
How much value does a tankless water heater add to your home?
Tankless water heaters can significantly increase the value of homes. According to real estate agents, tankless water heaters can increase the asking price by 4%.
