Residences without a gas line or lp tank can likewise enjoy the benefits of on-demand warm water by installing tankless units powered by electricity. These units, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a third smaller than gas or gas tankless heaters. And due to the fact that they don’t need vents, they can be set up practically anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One disadvantage to electric systems is its limited output, which tops out at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That might suffice to supply a whole house in areas with warm groundwater, but in cooler climes they’re much better suited to point-of-use service, where the demand for warm water does not get too high. Whichever type you select, it will require sufficient amperage at the primary panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last only about half as long as gas systems: Typical warranties are 3 to five years. Once the heating elements fry, it typically costs about as much to replace the whole heater as it does to swap in brand-new components.
Tankless Water Heater in Northridge Installation
What you and your plumbing professional requirement to examine before installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to carry out properly, it needs to be connected to a gas-supply line that provides enough volume at enough pressure. In many cases that means the diameter of the supply pipe needs to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure fails, the gas business will have to change the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, are able to deal 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 endure 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 setup since only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Usually, vent runs have been restricted to simply 10 feet. However 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 currently have whole-house water-softening. But if your water isn’t being softened, and its hardness goes beyond 120 milligrams per liter, then it deserves buying a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) changes firmness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outdoor Tankless Water Heater in Northridge
Consider the benefits of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and regional codes allow.
Saves space: That’s one less device you need to make room for within.
Easy to install: The built-in exhaust vent eliminates having to cut a big hole (or two) through the side of your house.
Easy to service: A plumbing technician can get to it at any time, whether you’re house or not. But remember …
Building regulations: You might need consent from your regional structure department to put it outside.
Winter: Internal heaters keep components toasty to − 22-degrees F, but exposed pipes should be insulated and wrapped in heat tape that switches on immediately in freezing temperature levels. Frozen pipes are less of a concern south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
What to Know About Tankless Water Heaters in Northridge
New Tankless Water Heater Technology in Northridge