Why is tankless water heater installation so expensive?

By Robert Flores / October 26, 2022

Tankless water heaters have a higher initial price compared to tank heaters, costing homeowners between $1,200–$3,500. The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For electrical tankless heaters, new electric wiring will need to be installed. Sept 1, 2022

Do tankless water heaters increase electric bill?

Tankless heaters can be 8-14% more energy-efficient for households that use around 86 gallons daily. Installing a tankless heater at each hot water outlet, Energy.gov says, can increase tankless water heater energy savings by up to 27-50%. Oct 6, 2016

How often does a tankless water heater need to be cleaned?

once a year Over time, a tankless water heater may accumulate mineral build up which can erode the walls inside your tank’s heating chamber. To properly maintain and clean your tankless water heater, it’s important to flush those mineral deposits at least once a year.

See also  How long do tankless water heaters last?

Why does my tankless water heater take so long to warm up?

The length of the delay can be determined by a few factors, including the distance between the water heater and the outlet. In other words, the longer the water has to travel, the more cold water will need to be discharged before the hot water appears. Dec 21, 2020

Where should tankless water heater not be installed?

You should avoid installing your tankless water heater in a location prone to excessive humidity, moisture, or dust, or in an area where it may be splashed with water or other liquids. Do NOT install under water pipes or air conditioning lines that might leak or condense moisture that could then drip onto the heater.

How long does it take to install tankless water heater?

between one to three hours Afterward, the tankless unit must also be mounted and connected. Tankless to Tankless Installation: This generally takes between one to three hours.

Can I install an electric tankless water heater myself?

As a homeowner you are usually allowed to install a water heater yourself. However, in most states you must still pull a permit to have it inspected for safety. This also goes for replacing an old water heater. Sept 27, 2022

How many fixtures can a tankless water heater handle?

Whole-House Tankless Water Heater For example, a unit may sufficient capacity to handle two shower fixtures at one time, or a dishwasher, kitchen sink, and lavatory hot water faucet at one time. Sept 5, 2021

How do I choose a tankless water heater?

There are two things you need to consider before purchasing a tankless water heater: the flow rate, meaning the water measured in gallons per minute (GPM) for a fixture or appliance, and the temperature rise, which is the difference between the groundwater temperature and the desired hot-water output temperature.

How much hot water does a shower use?

An average shower uses 56 litres (15 gallons) of hot water based on a water saving shower head using 7 litres/min (1.8 gallons/min) and a shower duration of 8 minutes. Assuming an average 8 minute hot water shower, consumption is 56 litres (15 gallons) of hot water to take a shower. Oct 14, 2022

See also  Do electric tankless water heaters need a vent?

What size tankless water heater do I need for my house?

SELECTING A TANKLESS WATER HEATER Consider how many of these needs you may have simultaneously to determine the maximum flow rate you require. For a home with 1 bathroom, we recommend 6-7 GPM; 2 bathrooms, 8 – 9 GPM; and 3+ bathrooms, 9-11 GPM.

How much does it cost to install a tankless gas water heater?

The typical range for tankless heater installation is between $4,500 and $6,500, averaging out to around $5,500 (including the water heater, warranty and tune ups). The tankless heater installation without the unit can cost between $1800 and $3500, averaging out to around $2650. Aug 26, 2022

Do tankless water heaters produce carbon monoxide?

A kit installed on the tankless water heaters and boilers to convert them from natural gas to propane can cause the unit to produce excessive amounts of carbon monoxide, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to consumers.

Do you need electricity for a gas tankless water heater?

While on-demand gas water heaters don’t rely on electricity as a fuel source to heat water, on-demand heaters usually have a control panel that is powered by electricity which is the ‘brains’ of the water heater. So even a tankless gas water heater will not work independently in a power outage.

What size gas line do I need for a tankless water heater?

¾-inch A typical tankless water heater will need a ¾-inch gas line. However, if there is sufficient pressure and the run length is short enough, a ½-inch line may be sufficient with certain tankless water heaters, such as the Noritz EZ Series. Nov 8, 2018

Does a tankless water heater need a dedicated gas line?

Because tankless units heat water on demand they require higher BTUs (or they operate on high heat). This requires a greater ‘jolt’ of gas, and therefore, a minimum ¾” gas line. On the other hand, because tanks are constantly heating water (or they operate on low heat), they require a constant supply of gas.

See also  Can I replace my hot water heater with a tankless?

Do tankless water heaters increase home value?

If you are looking to increase the value of your home, adding a tankless water heater to your features is a great place to start. According to a study conducted by Zillow, homes with tankless water heaters sold for 4% more than their expected value. Aug 17, 2020

What type of water heater is most energy efficient?

Heat pump water heaters move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly for providing hot water, resulting in high efficiencies and significant cost savings.

Is gas or electric better for tankless water heater?

Overall, natural gas tankless water heaters are the choice for greater water heating capacity and electric models are better for small households and bolstering existing systems.

Is a tankless water heater worth the extra cost?

According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy, a tankless water heater is more efficient and uses less energy than a conventional water heater, providing a $25 to $107 in annual savings. If your hot water use is low (less than 41 gallons per day), a tankless water heater will be 24% to 34% more efficient. Jun 4, 2021

Resources

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/reviews/water-heater-installation-cost

Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters | Which is More Energy Efficient?


https://www.rinnai.us/residential/flushing-my-rinnai-tankless-water-heater
https://www.prattplumbing.net/how-to-deal-with-a-delay-in-hot-water-from-a-tankless-water-heaters/
https://www.e-tankless.com/installation-location.php
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/what-to-expect-during-water-heater-installation-appointment/9ba683603be9fa5395fab9042d83092

How to Install an Electric Tankless Water Heater + Installation Requirements


https://www.thespruce.com/tankless-water-heaters-1824903
https://www.lowes.com/n/buying-guide/tankless-water-heater-guide
https://www.elgas.com.au/blog/494-what-size-hot-water-system-do-i-need/
https://www.fastwaterheater.com/water-heaters/articles/tankless-water-heater-buyers-guide/

Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost (2024)


https://www.cpsc.gov/vi-VN/node/41055?language=vi
https://magnificentplumbing.com/will-water-heater-work-power-outage/

Tankless Water Heater Installation Tips. Things to Consider


https://www.tanklesswaterheaters.com/tanklessfaq.html
https://www.mrrooter.com/charlotte/about-us/blog/2020/august/does-a-tankless-water-heater-increase-your-home-/
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/selecting-new-water-heater

Gas vs Electric Tankless Water Heaters – What to Choose

Are Tankless Water Heaters Worth The Investment?

About the author

Robert Flores