Houses without a gas line or propane tank can likewise enjoy the advantages of on-demand warm water by setting up tankless systems powered by electrical energy. These systems, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a 3rd smaller than gas or propane tankless heaters. And since they don’t require vents, they can be set up nearly anywhere, including under sinks and in small closets.

One drawback to electrical systems is its limited output, which tops out at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That might be enough to provide a whole home in locations with warm groundwater, but in cooler climates they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the demand for hot water doesn’t get too high. Whichever type you choose, it will require sufficient amperage at the main panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electrical heaters last just about half as long as gas systems: Typical guarantees are three to five years. When the heating elements fry, it generally costs about as much to change the entire heater as it does to switch in brand-new elements.
Tankless Water Heater in Pacoima Setup
What you and your plumbing professional requirement to examine prior to installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to perform correctly, it needs to be linked to a gas-supply line that provides adequate volume at adequate pressure. In a lot of cases that suggests the diameter of the supply pipe has to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure fails, the gas company will need to adjust the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, are able to deal with a basic 1/2- inch gas line, supplied it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTILATION: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters use stainless-steel vents that can withstand high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and utilize less costly PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a bigger air-intake pipe, streamlines installation since only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Usually, vent runs have been limited to just 10 feet. However more powerful fans, like those in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now permit vents to run up to 150 feet.
3. WATER HARDNESS: Scale deposits that form in a heat exchanger (or on electric heating elements) decrease heat transfer and constrict water flow. Scale won’t be an issue if you already have whole-house water-softening. But if your water isn’t being softened, and its solidity goes beyond 120 milligrams per liter, then it’s worth investing in a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) alters solidity without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outdoor Tankless Water Heater in Pacoima
Consider the advantages of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and local codes allow.
Saves space: That’s one less device you have to make room for inside.
Easy to install: The built-in exhaust vent eliminates having to cut a huge hole (or two) through the side of your house.
Easy to service: A plumbing professional can get to it at any time, whether you’re house or not. But bear in mind …
Structure regulations: You may need authorization from your regional structure department to put it outside.
Cold weather: Internal heaters keep elements toasty down to − 22-degrees F, but exposed water pipes should be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on instantly in freezing temperature levels. Frozen pipes are less of an issue south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
WHAT YOU NEED TO LEARN ABOUT TANKLESS WATER HEATERS in Pacoima
New Tankless Water Heater Innovation in Pacoima