Houses without a gas line or propane tank can also 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 gas tankless heaters. And because they don’t need vents, they can be set up practically anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One downside to electric units is its minimal output, which peaks at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That may be enough to supply an entire home in areas with warm groundwater, however in cooler climes they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the need for warm water does not get expensive. Whichever type you pick, it will need adequate amperage at the primary panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last only about half as long as gas units: Normal guarantees are 3 to five years. Once the heating elements fry, it normally costs about as much to change the entire heater as it does to switch in new components.
Tankless Water Heater in Sherman Oaks Installation
What you and your plumbing technician need to evaluate prior to setup day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to carry out effectively, it has to be connected to a gas-supply line that delivers enough volume at adequate pressure. In most cases that indicates the diameter of the supply pipeline needs to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure falls short, the gas business will have to adjust the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless systems, such as those made by Rheem, are able to deal with a basic 1/2- inch gas line, provided it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTING: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters use stainless-steel vents that can endure high exhaust heat. Condensing units have a cooler exhaust, and use less costly PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipe, streamlines installation since only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Generally, vent runs have been restricted to just 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 electrical heating elements) slow down heat transfer and restrict water flow. Scale won’t be an issue if you currently have whole-house water-softening. But if your water isn’t being softened, and its solidity exceeds 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) alters firmness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Sherman Oaks
Consider 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 gets rid of needing to cut a big hole (or two) through the side of the house.
Easy to service: A plumber can get to it at any time, whether you’re home or not. But bear in mind …
Building regulations: You may require permission from your regional building department to put it outside.
Cold weather: Internal heaters keep components toasty down to − 22-degrees F, but exposed water pipes should be insulated and covered in heat tape that turns on immediately in freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are less of an issue south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
New Tankless Water Heater Technology in Sherman Oaks