Homes without a gas line or lp tank can likewise enjoy the advantages of on-demand warm water by setting up tankless systems powered by electrical energy. These systems, which heat water with thick copper rods, are quieter and about a 3rd smaller than gas or lp tankless heaters. And because they don’t require vents, they can be installed almost anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One downside to electrical units is its minimal output, which tops out at 36 kilowatts, or about 123,000 Btus. That may suffice to supply a whole house in locations with warm groundwater, but in cooler climes they’re much better suited to point-of-use service, where the need 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 units: Common warranties are three to 5 years. Once the heating elements fry, it usually costs about as much to change the whole heater as it does to swap in new aspects.
Tankless Water Heater in Sun Valley Setup
What you and your plumber need to assess prior to installation day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to carry out correctly, it has to be connected to a gas-supply line that provides sufficient volume at enough pressure. Oftentimes that implies the diameter of the supply pipe needs to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure fails, the gas company will have to change the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, are able to work with a standard 1/2- inch gas line, supplied it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTILATION: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters use stainless-steel vents that can endure high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and use cheaper PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipe, simplifies installation due to the fact that only one hole requires to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Normally, vent runs have been restricted to just 10 feet. However more effective 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 electric heating elements) slow down heat transfer and constrict 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 surpasses 120 milligrams per liter, then it’s worth buying a treatment system.
FYI: A dedicated, point-of-use cartridge like the TAC-ler water conditioner (Stiebel Eltron) modifies hardness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Sun Valley
Consider the benefits of hanging a heater outdoors, if your climate and regional codes permit.
Saves space: That’s one less appliance you have to make room for within.
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 professional can get to it at any time, whether you’re house or not. But keep in mind …
Building policies: You might require authorization from your regional structure department to put it outside.
Winter: Internal heaters keep parts toasty to − 22-degrees F, however exposed water pipes must be insulated and covered in heat tape that switches on automatically in freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are less of a concern south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
What to Understand About Tankless Water Heaters in Sun Valley
Tankless Water Heater: What You Need to Know Prior To You Buy in Sun Valley