Houses without a gas line or lp tank can also enjoy the advantages of on-demand hot water by setting up 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 since they do not need vents, they can be set up almost anywhere, including under sinks and in little closets.

One drawback to electrical systems is its minimal 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 chillier climes they’re better suited to point-of-use service, where the need for warm water does not get too high. Whichever type you pick, it will require enough amperage at the main panel and heavy-gauge wires.
Also, electric heaters last only about half as long as gas systems: Common service warranties are three to 5 years. When the heating elements fry, it typically costs about as much to replace the whole heater as it does to swap in new elements.
Tankless Water Heater in Sylmar Setup
What you and your plumbing technician need to examine before setup day:
1. GAS LINE: For the burner in a tankless heater to perform correctly, it has to be linked to a gas-supply line that delivers adequate volume at sufficient pressure. Oftentimes that implies the size of the supply pipeline has to be increased to 3⁄4 inch. And if the pressure fails, the gas company will need to change the regulator on the meter.
FYI: Some tankless units, such as those made by Rheem, have the ability to deal with a basic 1/2- inch gas line, supplied it isn’t longer than 24 feet.
2. VENTING: Noncondensing tankless gas heaters utilize stainless-steel vents that can withstand high exhaust heat. Condensing systems have a cooler exhaust, and use less expensive PVC pipes. A concentric vent, which has an exhaust pipe inside a larger air-intake pipeline, simplifies setup since only one hole needs to be cut in the wall.
FYI: Usually, vent runs have been restricted to just 10 feet. However more effective fans, like those in Rinnai’s Sensei series, now permit vents to run up to 150 feet.
3. WATER HARDNESS: Scale deposits that form in a heat exchanger (or on electric heating elements) decrease heat transfer and restrict water flow. Scale won’t be an issue if you currently have whole-house water-softening. However if your water isn’t being softened, and its hardness goes beyond 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) changes firmness without adding salt or other chemicals.
Outside Tankless Water Heater in Sylmar
Think about the advantages of hanging a heater outdoors, if your environment and regional codes permit.
Saves space: That’s one less appliance you have to make room for inside.
Easy to install: The built-in exhaust vent eliminates having to cut a huge hole (or two) through the side of your home.
Easy to service: A plumber can get to it at any time, whether you’re home or not. But keep in mind …
Building guidelines: You may need permission from your local structure department to put it outside.
Cold weather: Internal heaters keep elements toasty down to − 22-degrees F, but exposed pipes should be insulated and wrapped in heat tape that switches on instantly in freezing temperature levels. Frozen pipes are less of an issue south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
New Tankless Water Heater Technology in Sylmar
Tankless Water Heater: What You Need to Know Before You Purchase in Sylmar