Hot Water
Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Charleston
Imagine stepping into your Charleston shower and feeling a cascade of perfectly heated water that never runs cold—no bulky tank, no wasted energy, just on-demand comfort. HEP’s master plumbers specialize in tankless water heater install projects that deliver exactly that experience. By replacing outdated tanks with sleek, high-efficiency units, we free up space in your home, cut standby energy loss, and supply endless hot water for morning routines, laundry marathons, or late-night dish duty.
From the historic downtown peninsula to Mount Pleasant and West Ashley, our local team handles every detail: precise sizing, clean retrofits, and thorough safety checks. We arrive on time, protect your property, and back our workmanship with iron-clad guarantees—so you can enjoy lower utility bills and reliable performance for years to come. Ready to make the switch? Call HEP today and discover why Charleston homeowners trust us to turn hot water into pure, hassle-free luxury.
FAQs
What advantages does a tankless water heater offer in Charleston’s climate?
Charleston’s mild winters and warm groundwater temperatures (typically around 67 °F) allow a tankless unit to reach set‐point with less energy than in colder regions. That translates into faster hot-water delivery, lower gas or electric consumption, and potential utility savings of 20-40 %. Because there is no storage tank, you also avoid standby heat loss and the risk of tank corrosion that is accelerated by our humid coastal air.
How do I determine the right size (GPM) tankless water heater for my home?
Sizing is based on the peak simultaneous demand in gallons per minute (GPM) and the temperature rise needed. In Charleston, a 50 °F rise (67 °F incoming to 117 °F at the tap) is typical. Add the flow rates of the fixtures you expect to use at the same time (e.g., 2.5 GPM shower + 1.5 GPM sink = 4 GPM). A household with two bathrooms usually needs a 7–9 GPM gas unit or a 24–27 kW electric unit. We provide a free on-site assessment and calculate the exact model that matches your family’s habits and existing gas/electrical capacity.
Are permits or inspections required in Charleston for a tankless installation?
Yes. The City of Charleston and Charleston County both require plumbing permits, and if the unit is gas-fired you’ll also need a mechanical/gas permit. After installation, a municipal inspector must verify gas line sizing, combustion air, vent termination, and pressure relief discharge. Using a licensed, insured plumber like us ensures all paperwork is filed, fees are included in your quote, and inspections are scheduled and passed without hassle.
Will a tankless water heater really lower my energy bills?
Most homeowners see a 10-25 % drop in annual water-heating costs, and even higher savings if you previously kept a large 50–80 gal tank. Tankless heaters fire only when water flows, so there is no 24/7 reheating of a standby tank. Modern condensing gas models reach efficiency ratings of 95 % or higher, and qualifying ENERGY STAR units can earn you a 30 % federal tax credit (up to $600) plus occasional rebates from Dominion Energy South Carolina.
How long does installation take and what should I expect on the day of service?
A straightforward replacement takes 4–6 hours; more complex jobs (gas line upsizing or new vent chase) can run 6–8 hours. We: 1. Drain and remove your old tank. 2. Upgrade gas or electrical service if needed. 3. Mount the tankless unit on an exterior or interior wall. 4. Install stainless-steel or PVC venting. 5. Connect water, gas/electric, and condensate lines. 6. Test for leaks, set temperatures, and teach you the controls. Your water will be off for roughly 1–2 hours, and we always leave the work area clean.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require after installation?
Charleston’s water is moderately hard (4-6 grains), so we recommend a yearly flush with white vinegar or a citric-acid solution to remove scale from the heat exchanger. Units with built-in isolation valves make this a 45-minute procedure. We offer an affordable annual service that includes descaling, filter cleaning, vent inspection, and a performance check. Regular maintenance preserves efficiency, keeps your warranty valid, and can extend the unit’s life well beyond the standard 20-year expectancy.