Tankless Water Heater
Tankless Water Heater | Plumbing | Altamont
When Altamont mornings start crisp and cool, nothing feels better than a shower that never runs cold. HEP’s tankless water heater experts swap out bulky tanks for sleek, on-demand units that slash energy bills, free up closet space, and deliver endless hot water the instant you turn the tap. Our certified technicians arrive on time, explain every step, and finish the job with spotless workmanship you can trust for years to come.
From same-day installations to annual tune-ups, we back every service with flat-rate pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee—because reliable hot water shouldn’t come with surprises. Ready to elevate your home’s plumbing efficiency? Call HEP today and experience the smarter way to heat water in Altamont.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work, and what advantages does it offer over a traditional tank model?
A tankless (on-demand) water heater uses high-efficiency gas burners or electric elements to heat water only when you open a hot-water tap. Because it eliminates the standby heat loss of a storage tank, it can reduce energy consumption by 20–40 %. In addition, a tankless unit delivers an endless supply of hot water, takes up far less space, and generally lasts 5–10 years longer than a conventional tank heater.
Is a tankless system a good choice for homes in Altamont’s climate and with our local water quality?
Yes. Altamont’s moderate climate allows most tankless units to operate efficiently without extensive freeze protection, and natural gas availability keeps operating costs low. Our municipal water is moderately hard, so we recommend adding a scale-inhibiting filter or scheduling regular descaling to maintain efficiency and protect the heat exchanger.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my Altamont home?
Sizing is based on two factors: the maximum flow rate you’ll need at one time and the temperature rise required to reach 120 °F. In Altamont, groundwater temperatures average about 55 °F, so a 65 °F rise is typical. A family that might run two showers and a dishwasher simultaneously would need roughly 6–8 gpm at that rise, which corresponds to a 180,000–199,000 BTU natural-gas unit or a 27 kW electric model. We provide a free in-home assessment to calculate the exact capacity you need.
Will installing a tankless heater require changes to my plumbing, gas line, or venting?
Most homes need some modifications. Tankless units use ¾-inch gas piping and higher BTU input, so we often up-size the gas line from the meter to the appliance. Condensing gas models require PVC exhaust and an air-intake line, which we route through an exterior wall or the roof. On the plumbing side, we add isolation valves for maintenance and, if you want faster hot water, we can integrate a recirculation loop. All work is performed to Altamont building code and includes permit handling.
What routine maintenance does a tankless water heater require?
Maintenance is simple but important. 1) Descale the heat exchanger annually (or every 6–12 months in hard-water areas) using food-grade vinegar or a manufacturer-approved solution. 2) Clean the inlet water filter every 6 months. 3) Inspect the venting and condensate line for blockages. Our plumbing team offers an affordable annual service plan that covers all of these tasks and keeps your warranty valid.
How long will a tankless water heater last, and what savings can I expect?
With regular maintenance, a quality tankless unit lasts 20+ years—about twice the life of a storage tank heater. Warranties typically cover the heat exchanger for 10–15 years and parts for 5–7 years. Because the burner fires only when hot water is needed, homeowners in Altamont usually see energy bills drop by $75–$150 per year compared to a standard 40- or 50-gallon gas tank, yielding a payback period of 5–7 years when factoring in lower operating costs and longer lifespan.