Energy Savings
Energy Savings | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Cosby
Imagine endless hot water, lower utility bills, and extra space in your Cosby home— all made possible by HEP’s energy-savings plumbing team. Our licensed technicians specialize in tankless water heater install, replacing bulky, inefficient tanks with sleek units that heat water on demand. You’ll enjoy consistent comfort, up to 40% energy savings, and the confidence that comes from industry-leading warranties and 24/7 local support.
From the first call to the final test run, we handle everything: proper sizing, venting, gas or electric upgrades, and meticulous cleanup. Join the growing number of neighbors who have already made the switch, and see why HEP is Cosby’s go-to choice for smarter plumbing solutions. Ready for reliable hot water that never runs out? Contact us today and feel the HEP difference tomorrow.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater save energy compared with a conventional storage-tank model?
Standard tanks keep 40–80 gallons of water hot 24/7, so they constantly cycle on to offset standby heat loss. A tankless unit heats water only when a fixture opens, eliminating standby loss altogether. Modern gas units reach energy factors of 0.82–0.96, while electric models exceed 0.98, translating to 20–40 % lower annual water-heating costs for a typical Cosby household.
What size tankless unit do I need for my Cosby home?
Sizing is based on peak demand, not the number of bathrooms. Add the flow rates of the fixtures you might run at the same time (shower ≈ 2.0 gpm, kitchen sink ≈ 1.5 gpm, washing machine ≈ 2.0 gpm). In Cosby, incoming groundwater averages 55 °F, so you need about a 70 °F temperature rise to reach 125 °F hot water. A family that needs 6 gpm at that rise should choose a gas unit rated around 160 k Btu/h or an electric unit of 24–27 kW. Our estimator will confirm the exact model before installation.
Is natural gas or electric the better choice for my tankless heater?
• Natural gas/propane: Higher flow capacity, ideal for large families or simultaneous multiple fixtures. Operating cost per BTU is typically lower in Cocke County where gas is available, but venting and combustion air requirements add to installation cost. • Electric: Simpler installation, no venting, compact, and almost silent. They are perfect for smaller households, vacation cabins, or off-grid solar setups. However, you may need a 200-amp electrical service and up to three 40- to 50-amp breakers. We will review your utility rates, panel capacity, and hot-water demand to recommend the most economical option.
What does a tankless installation cost in Cosby, and how long is the payback period?
A turnkey gas tankless installation in the Cosby area runs $3,200–$4,800, depending on vent routing and gas-line upsizing. Electric units average $2,400–$3,500, largely driven by panel upgrades. Homeowners switching from a 0.60-EF tank to a condensing tankless can save $90–$160 per year on energy. With local utility rebates (up to $300) and the current 30 % federal clean-energy tax credit (capped at $600 for gas, $2,000 for electric), typical payback is 4–7 years.
Will a tankless system work with my existing plumbing, and how long does installation take?
Yes. We reuse the hot- and cold-water lines, install isolation valves for maintenance, and add a condensate drain for high-efficiency gas units. Venting is run through the sidewall or roof with 2- or 3-inch PVC. Most retrofits are completed in one day; complex venting or electrical upgrades may add a second day. You’ll be without hot water for only 3–5 hours during the switchover.
What routine maintenance is required, and how long will the unit last?
Mineral buildup can reduce efficiency, so we recommend a 45-minute vinegar or citric-acid flush once a year (every 6 months if you have hard water >12 gpg). Gas burners should be inspected and the flame sensor cleaned annually. With proper care, stainless-steel heat exchangers last 20–25 years—about twice the life of a storage tank. Our Comfort Club plan covers yearly descaling, safety checks, and priority service at a discounted rate.