Residences without a gas line or gas tank can likewise enjoy the benefits of on-demand hot water by installing tankless units powered by electrical power. These systems, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a 3rd smaller than gas or propane tankless heaters. And because they do not need vents, they can be set up nearly anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One drawback to electrical units is its limited output, which tops out at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That may be enough to supply a whole house in areas with warm groundwater, however in chillier climes they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the need for hot water does not get expensive. Whichever type you select, it will need enough amperage at the main panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electrical heaters last only about half as long as gas systems: Normal guarantees are three to 5 years. As soon as the heating elements fry, it usually costs about as much to replace the entire heater as it does to switch in new elements.
Tankless Water Heater in Tarzana Setup
What you and your plumber need to examine before setup day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to perform properly, it has to be hooked up to a gas-supply line that provides enough volume at adequate pressure. In many cases that implies the diameter of the supply pipeline has to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure falls short, the gas business will need to change the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, are able to work with a basic 1/2- inch gas line, offered it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTING: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters utilize stainless-steel vents that can withstand high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and utilize cheaper PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a bigger air-intake pipe, streamlines setup because only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Generally, vent runs have been limited to simply 10 feet. But more effective fans, like those in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now enable vents to add to 150 feet.
3. WATER HARDNESS: Scale deposits that form in a heat exchanger (or on electric heating elements) slow down heat transfer and constrict water flow. Scale will not be an issue if you already have whole-house water-softening. However if your water isn’t being softened, and its hardness goes beyond 120 milligrams per liter, then it deserves investing in a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) alters firmness without including salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Tarzana
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.
Simple to set up: The built-in exhaust vent gets rid of needing to cut a big hole (or 2) through the side of the house.
Easy to service: A plumbing professional can get to it at any time, whether you’re home or not. However bear in mind …
Building policies: You may require permission from your regional structure department to put it outside.
Winter: Internal heaters keep parts toasty to − 22-degrees F, however exposed water pipes should be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on instantly in freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are less of a concern south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
Tankless Water Heater in Tarzana
Tankless Water Heater: What You Need to Know Before You Purchase in Tarzana