Tankless Water Heater
Tankless Water Heater | Plumbing | Charleston
Enjoy endless hot water in Charleston’s sultry summers and brisk winters with HEP’s modern tankless systems. Our licensed plumbing pros swap bulky, inefficient tanks for sleek, on-demand units that heat water only when you need it—saving energy, space, and money while delivering a steady, steamy flow every time you turn the tap.
From first consultation to final test, we handle everything quickly and cleanly, offering transparent pricing, convenient scheduling, and a satisfaction guarantee backed by decades of Lowcountry know-how. Ready to upgrade? Give HEP a call today and feel the comfort of hot water without the wait.
FAQs
How do tankless water heaters work, and why are they popular in Charleston?
Unlike traditional tanks that constantly heat a large volume of stored water, a tankless (on-demand) unit uses powerful gas burners or electric elements to heat water only when a fixture calls for it. Charleston homeowners appreciate this technology because it delivers endless hot water, reduces standby energy loss (cutting utility bills by 20–40 %), and frees up space—particularly valuable in downtown historic properties where square footage is at a premium.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my Charleston home?
Sizing depends on three factors: (1) peak household flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM), (2) desired temperature rise, and (3) fuel type. A typical three-bathroom Lowcountry home with simultaneous shower, dishwasher, and washing machine demand may need 8–10 GPM at a 70 °F rise (groundwater is roughly 70 °F here). Gas units in the 180,000–199,000 BTU range or two smaller units in parallel usually meet this demand. Our plumbers perform a detailed load calculation before recommending a model to ensure you never run out of hot water during those post-beach rinse-offs.
Do I need special permits to install a tankless water heater in Charleston?
Yes. The City of Charleston and surrounding municipalities (Mount Pleasant, James Island, West Ashley, etc.) require plumbing, gas, and sometimes electrical permits for tankless installations. Gas models also need venting that meets the International Fuel Gas Code. Our licensed technicians pull all necessary permits, schedule inspections, and ensure the installation meets local building codes and South Carolina’s Residential Code, so you don’t have to worry about red tape.
How often should a tankless water heater be serviced in the Charleston area?
Every 12 months. Charleston’s water is moderately hard (5–7 grains per gallon), so mineral buildup can reduce efficiency and cause error codes. Annual maintenance includes descaling the heat exchanger with food-grade vinegar, cleaning the inlet filter, checking the burner assembly or elements, inspecting venting/combustion air, and verifying gas pressure. Routine service extends the unit’s life to 20+ years compared with 10–12 years for tank models.
Can a tankless system be retrofitted into an older Charleston home?
Absolutely, but it requires careful planning. Older homes may have undersized gas lines, limited electrical capacity, or confined venting paths. Our retrofit process starts with a site evaluation to determine gas supply (minimum ¾-inch line for most units), electrical upgrades (120 V outlet for ignition and controls, or 240 V for electric models), condensate drain routing, and wall framing reinforcement. In many historical homes we mount the unit outdoors to simplify venting and preserve interior finishes.
What freeze-protection measures are needed for outdoor tankless units in the Lowcountry?
While Charleston’s winters are mild, occasional hard freezes can occur. Modern outdoor tankless units include built-in electric heat-trace kits that activate around 36 °F, but they must remain powered to work. We also insulate exposed water and gas lines with ¾-inch closed-cell foam, add drain valves for quick winterization, and recommend installing a freeze sensor shutoff. During extreme cold (below 20 °F), allowing a faucet to drip or temporarily powering off and draining the unit prevents damage.