Homes without a gas line or lp tank can also enjoy the advantages of on-demand warm water by installing tankless systems powered by electricity. These units, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a 3rd smaller than gas or propane tankless heaters. And since they do not need vents, they can be set up almost anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One downside to electrical systems is its restricted output, which peaks at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That may suffice to supply a whole home in areas with warm groundwater, however in cooler climes they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the demand for hot water does not get too high. Whichever type you choose, it will require enough amperage at the primary panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last just about half as long as gas units: Typical guarantees are three to five years. As soon as the heating elements fry, it normally costs about as much to replace the entire heater as it does to switch in brand-new elements.
Tankless Water Heater in Porter Ranch Setup
What you and your plumbing professional need to examine before installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to carry out effectively, it needs to be attached to a gas-supply line that delivers enough volume at enough pressure. In many cases that means the size of the supply pipe has to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure falls short, the gas company will need to change the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless systems, such as those made by Rheem, have the ability to deal with a standard 1/2- inch gas line, provided it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTILATION: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters utilize stainless-steel vents that can endure high exhaust heat. Condensing units 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 due to the fact that only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Normally, vent runs have been limited to just 10 feet. But more powerful fans, like those in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now allow vents to run up to 150 feet.
3. WATER HARDNESS: Scale deposits that form in a heat exchanger (or on electrical heating elements) slow down heat transfer and constrict water circulation. Scale won’t be an issue if you already have whole-house water-softening. But if your water isn’t being softened, and its firmness goes beyond 120 milligrams per liter, then it’s worth purchasing a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) modifies firmness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Porter Ranch
Think about the benefits of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and local codes permit.
Saves space: That’s one less appliance you need to make room for inside.
Easy to set up: The built-in exhaust vent eliminates having to cut a big hole (or two) through the side of the house.
Easy to service: A plumbing technician can get to it at any time, whether you’re home or not. But remember …
Building regulations: You may need consent from your local structure department to put it outside.
Winter: Internal heaters keep components toasty to − 22-degrees F, but exposed water pipes must be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on automatically in freezing temperature levels. Frozen pipes are less of a concern south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
Tankless Water Heater in Porter Ranch
What to Understand About Tankless Water Heaters in Porter Ranch