Houses without a gas line or gas tank can likewise enjoy the advantages of on-demand hot water by installing tankless units powered by electrical energy. These systems, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a third smaller than gas or lp tankless heaters. And due to the fact that they do not need vents, they can be installed almost anywhere, including under sinks and in small closets.

One downside to electric systems is its restricted output, which peaks at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That might 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 demand for warm water does not get too high. Whichever type you select, it will need sufficient amperage at the main panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last only about half as long as gas systems: Common guarantees are 3 to five years. As soon as the heating elements fry, it typically costs about as much to replace the entire heater as it does to switch in brand-new aspects.
Tankless Water Heater in Arleta Installation
What you and your plumber need to assess prior to installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to perform properly, it needs to be connected to a gas-supply line that provides adequate volume at enough pressure. In many cases that means the size of the supply pipeline needs to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure falls short, the gas company will need to adjust the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, have the ability to work with a standard 1/2- inch gas line, offered it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTILATION: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters utilize stainless-steel vents that can withstand high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and use more economical PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipe, streamlines installation due to the fact that only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Usually, vent runs have been limited to just 10 feet. But more powerful 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 electrical heating elements) slow down heat transfer and restrict water circulation. Scale won’t be an issue if you already have whole-house water-softening. However if your water isn’t being softened, and its hardness surpasses 120 milligrams per liter, then it deserves purchasing 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.
Outdoor Tankless Water Heater in Arleta
Think about the benefits of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and local codes allow.
Saves space: That’s one less device you need to make room for inside.
Simple to install: 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 plumber can get to it at any time, whether you’re house or not. But keep in mind …
Structure policies: You might require authorization from your local structure department to put it outside.
Cold weather: Internal heaters keep elements toasty to − 22-degrees F, but exposed water pipes should be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on immediately in freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are less of an issue south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
Tankless Water Heater: What You Need to Know Before You Buy in Arleta
WHAT YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND ABOUT TANKLESS WATER HEATERS in Arleta