If you’re thinking about installing a tankless water heater in your home, you’ll need to make sure you’re prepared for the project. Before you begin, make sure to understand what the process entails, the average cost, and the benefits of a new tankless water heater.
Preparing to Install a New Tankless Water Heater
There are several things to consider when preparing to install a new tankless water heater. The first thing is to ensure that the old water heater is disconnected from the main water supply. If the water heater is electric, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. Also, make sure to check your local building codes to ensure that the new unit will fit properly.
Gas units are available in a wide range of sizes and outputs, ranging from 130,000 to 380,000 BTUs. A larger BTU rating means that a tankless unit will heat water more efficiently. If your existing gas lines are too small to accommodate a tankless unit, you’ll need to have them enlarged. Gas units also require a proper gas line and venting. Electric units do not require a venting system.
Venting the new unit should be done according to manufacturer specifications. It should be at least 6 inches away from the tank. A vent kit is available in the market if you’re not able to find the proper fit. Then, the vent shaft should be sealed with a heat-resistant silicone sealant. Once the sealant is dry, place the stainless steel vent pipe on the retaining ring and secure it with a hose clamp.
Average Cost to Install a Tankless Water Heater
The average cost to install a tankless water heater depends on several factors. These factors include the distance from the gas meter and the location of the unit. You may also need to have a new gas line installed. These costs will also vary. You should also be aware of local ordinances.
Tankless water heaters are available in different sizes. Some are large enough to heat an entire home while others are smaller enough to heat a single point of use. The flow rate of a tankless water heater is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and the amount of water that will be heated depends on the amount of water used in the home.
If you’re planning to install a tankless water heater in your home, it’s important to compare the costs. Natural gas and propane models generally cost more than an electric heater. Electric models are also easier to install and maintain. These units also typically have higher energy ratings and perform well. Tankless electric water heaters are more energy efficient than conventional tank-style heaters by 20 to 30 percent and are very popular with homeowners.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing A Water Heater
Tankless water heaters can be an excellent choice for homeowners who want to reduce the amount of water they use in their homes. This type of water heater is a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to conventional water heaters. They don’t use storage tanks to hold water and can be installed anywhere, including in the basement. They are smaller than traditional water heaters and can be mounted on a wall. This can help homeowners save space, especially in small homes. However, a tankless water heater requires a separate water softener, which adds to the cost of the unit. The softener also takes up space beside the heater and may even take up more space than a traditional water heater does.
Another advantage of tankless water heaters is their compact size. Traditional water heaters can take up valuable floor space and are typically 60 inches high and 24 inches wide. These large heaters can take up a lot of space in small homes, making them unattractive options for homeowners. In comparison, a tankless water heater only takes up about half the space of a conventional water heater and is only about the size of a shoe box.