Utility Bills
Utility Bills | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Charleston
Imagine stepping into a Charleston shower that never runs cold, even after back-to-back beach days and laundry loads. HEP’s seasoned plumbers make that everyday luxury possible with a seamless tankless water heater install, replacing bulky, inefficient tanks with sleek units that heat water on demand. You’ll reclaim closet space, slash standby energy loss, and enjoy a system rated to outlast traditional heaters—perfect for Lowcountry families who want comfort without the extra utility costs.
From the first courteous phone call to the final temperature test, our local team handles permitting, precision gas or electric hookups, and haul-away of your old unit. That means no hidden surprises—just a lighter energy bill, a smaller carbon footprint, and hot water that flows as endlessly as Charleston’s charm. Ready to make the switch? Let HEP take the hassle out of modernizing your home’s hot-water heart today.
FAQs
How can a tankless water heater installed by Utility Bills Plumbing reduce my monthly utility bills in Charleston?
Unlike traditional storage tanks that keep 40–80 gallons of water hot all day, a tankless unit heats water only when you open a tap. That on-demand operation eliminates standby heat loss and can cut water-heating energy use by 24–34 %. Charleston’s mild climate means inlet-water temperatures are moderate most of the year, allowing the heater to reach set-point faster and run less. Many homeowners see utility savings of $90–$150 per year, which adds up quickly over the 20-plus-year life of the equipment.
What does it cost to have a tankless water heater installed, and how long until it pays for itself?
Turn-key installation in the Charleston area generally ranges from $3,200 to $4,800 for a gas unit and $2,600 to $3,600 for an electric unit, depending on capacity, venting needs and whether a gas line upgrade is required. Annual energy savings plus the longer lifespan (20+ years versus 10–12 for a tank) typically produce a simple payback in 5–7 years. Federal tax credits of up to $600 on qualifying ENERGY STAR® models and occasional SCE&G rebates can shorten that payback even further.
Should I choose a gas or electric tankless water heater for my Lowcountry home?
Gas units (natural gas or propane) deliver higher flow rates—up to 11 GPM—making them ideal for larger families or simultaneous showers and laundry. They usually cost less to operate in Charleston where natural-gas rates are low. Electric models are quieter, have no venting requirements and are perfect for condos or homes without gas service, but they may need a 200-amp electrical panel and dedicated breakers. During your free in-home consultation, Utility Bills Plumbing measures your peak demand and utility-service capacity to recommend the most cost-effective option.
Do I need permits or inspections for a tankless installation, and does Utility Bills Plumbing handle them?
Yes. The City of Charleston and surrounding municipalities require mechanical and, for gas units, plumbing/gas permits. Final inspections verify proper venting, gas pressure and electrical connections. Utility Bills Plumbing pulls all necessary permits, schedules inspections, and provides documentation for your records, ensuring your new system meets International Residential Code (IRC) and local amendments.
How long will the installation take, and will I be without hot water during the process?
Most replacements are completed in one day. We shut off the old water heater in the morning, remove it, reroute water/gas/electrical lines, mount and vent the new tankless unit, and restore hot water by late afternoon. Water service is off for 1–2 hours; gas (if applicable) for 3–4 hours. We schedule convenient times and keep at least one bathroom operational whenever possible.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require, especially with Charleston’s moderately hard water?
Annual or bi-annual maintenance protects efficiency and warranty coverage. Utility Bills Plumbing’s service includes: 1) Descaling the heat exchanger with a food-grade vinegar flush to remove mineral build-up from Charleston’s 5–7 gpg water; 2) Cleaning the inlet screen filter; 3) Inspecting the burner and fan; 4) Verifying gas pressure and temperature settings. With routine maintenance, your system can deliver 20–25 years of reliable, energy-saving performance.