- HEP Plumbing
- Tankless Water Heater Install

Tankless Water Heater Install
Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Crossville
Imagine stepping into the shower on a frosty Crossville morning and never worrying about the hot water running out. A tankless water heater from HEP Plumbing delivers endless, on-demand comfort while trimming energy costs by up to 40 %. Our licensed pros size the unit precisely for your household, remove the bulky old tank, and install modern venting and gas or electric lines—usually in a single visit. Because the system heats water only when you need it, you’ll gain valuable closet or garage space and enjoy a product that typically lasts twice as long as a traditional heater.
From the first phone call to the final pressure test, HEP treats your home with the same care we give our own. We arrive on time, shoe covers in place, haul away every scrap, and walk you through the easy maintenance steps that keep your new heater humming. Ready for endless hot water and lower utility bills? Give HEP a shout today, and we’ll have you saying “Hot water, solved.”
What our customers say
Why Crossville Homes Benefit From Tankless Water Heaters
A growing number of households across Cumberland County are moving away from bulky, traditional storage tanks and embracing compact, on-demand technology. Tankless systems deliver measurable advantages that align well with Crossville’s unique climate, soil composition, and utility infrastructure.
Climate & Water Chemistry Considerations
Crossville experiences mild winters compared with higher elevations on the Plateau, yet groundwater still arrives noticeably colder during January and February. A tankless unit modulates its firing rate to handle these seasonal swings without wasting energy during warmer months. Hardness levels in municipal and well water average 4–7 grains per gallon, a range that encourages scale formation in conventional tanks. Tankless heat exchangers paired with a properly sized inline filter reduce mineral buildup and maintain efficiency year-round.
Space Optimization in Rural and Suburban Floor Plans
Many properties feature crawl spaces, detached garages, or combined laundry-mechanical rooms that benefit from the smaller footprint of wall-mounted equipment. By reclaiming up to 16 square feet formerly dedicated to a 50-gallon tank, homeowners gain room for additional shelving, a softener, or seasonal storage.
Staged Modulation for Households of All Sizes
Unlike fixed-capacity tanks, modern tankless water heaters equipped by HEP modulate from as little as 15,000 BTUs to more than 180,000 BTUs. The burner (or heating elements in electric models) fires only at the output level needed for each fixture. A single resident washing hands triggers a lower flame, while simultaneous showers and a dishwasher call for higher demand. This dynamic response avoids overheating, reduces standby losses, and lengthens service life.
Anatomy of a Professional HEP Tankless Installation
An efficiently installed system starts long before any pipe is cut. HEP follows a detailed multi-step process that balances precision, safety, and respect for the homeowner’s schedule.
On-Site Evaluation & Load Calculation
- Tap flow measurement with calibrated buckets and timers
- Verification of incoming gas line diameter and pressure using manometer readings
- Electrical panel inspection for breaker capacity, wire gauge, and grounding integrity
- Water hardness testing with titration strips
- Sizing worksheets that translate gallons per minute (GPM) at peak load into specific model recommendations
Material Selection for Longevity
HEP maintains a warehouse of region-appropriate supplies so technicians arrive fully stocked:
- ¾-inch and 1-inch Type L copper for gas connections
- Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) with protective sleeve for seismic flexibility
- Schedule 80 PVC or polypropylene venting rated for 230°F flue gases
- Lead-free brass isolation valves with integrated purge ports for simplified maintenance
- NSF-certified potable water expansion joints to accommodate thermal movement
Safety & Code Compliance Checklist
Before ignition, the installation team cross-checks local ordinances alongside the latest International Residential Code (IRC) amendments adopted by Cumberland County building officials.
- Leak tests with both electronic combustible gas detectors and soap solution
- Dielectric unions between dissimilar metals to prevent galvanic corrosion
- Category III or IV venting configurations evaluated for proper rise and termination clearances
- Electrical bonding straps on gas lines per National Fuel Gas Code NFPA 54
- Mandatory backflow prevention for any recirculation connection
Integrating Tankless Technology With Existing Plumbing
Retrofitting Older Copper and Galvanized Lines
Crossville’s housing stock spans historic farmhouses and 2010-era subdivisions. Older galvanized piping often exhibits interior scaling that narrows diameter and restricts flow. HEP technicians may recommend a partial repipe or targeted PEX upgrades near the new heater to guarantee unrestricted water delivery. Where original copper remains intact, technicians perform a pressure test and, if necessary, install dielectric fittings to minimize electrolysis created by the addition of new metals.
Managing Venting Pathways in Multi-Story Residences
Two-story homes with finished basements present unique venting requirements:
- Horizontal vent runs capped at manufacturer-specified maximum length
- Proper slope of ¼-inch per foot back toward the heater to prevent condensate pooling
- Use of firestopping collars when penetrating floor assemblies
- Termination distances respecting property lines and operable windows
Evaluating Gas Supply in Propane Service Areas
Outlying neighborhoods without natural gas rely on propane tanks that may experience pressure fluctuations in colder temperatures. HEP checks regulator output under simulated full-load conditions to ensure burner stability, and upsizes supply lines when needed to maintain continuous negative pressure at the manifold.
Common Installation Challenges in Crossville
Hard Water & Mineral Scaling
While tankless units resist some scaling due to lower water volume, dissolved calcium and magnesium still accumulate on heat exchanger surfaces. HEP addresses this with:
- Reusable sediment filters downstream of the main shut-off
- Pre-installation descaling flush if a tankless unit replaces a heavily fouled storage tank
- Recommendation of a 3–5 GPM flow-through water softener for wells exceeding 8 grains hardness
Variable Gas Pressures in Rural Areas
Several rural streets share smaller utility mains, causing pressure drops during peak evening use. HEP’s load-calculation step identifies marginal supply issues early, allowing for regulator upgrades or, in extreme cases, dedicated branch lines from the meter.
Limited Electrical Panel Capacity
Electric tankless models demand 120–150 amps across multiple double-pole breakers. Older homes built with 100-amp service may require a panel replacement or sub-panel addition. HEP’s licensed electricians coordinate these upgrades seamlessly with plumbing work.
Energy Efficiency & Environmental Benefits
Lowering Greenhouse Gas Emissions
By firing only when hot water is requested, a gas tankless heater can cut combustion runtime by 30–40 % compared with a storage model. Fewer operating hours translate into reduced CO₂ output. For an average Crossville household burning 450 therms annually for water heating, a 35 % reduction equates to roughly 1,800 pounds of carbon saved each year.
Water Conservation Through Intelligent Controls
Some premium models incorporate built-in recirculating pumps that learn usage patterns and move hot water through supply lines only during frequently used periods. Studies show a potential savings of 8,000–10,000 gallons per household annually by reducing the time faucets run while waiting for hot water to arrive.
Preparing Your Crossville Home for a Tankless Upgrade
Proper preparation streamlines installation day and reduces unexpected delays. HEP recommends that homeowners complete a few simple tasks in the week leading up to the scheduled appointment.
Clear Access Paths
- Move stored items away from mechanical rooms, basements, or closets
- Ensure a 3-foot working perimeter around the existing water heater
- Unlock gates and utility closets to facilitate equipment transport
Review Utility Shut-Off Points
Knowing where the main water valve, electrical breaker, and gas shut-off reside accelerates emergency response and system switchover. HEP technicians will review each valve’s operation during the walkthrough, but familiarity ahead of time minimizes downtime.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Gas-fired tankless heaters produce combustion gases. Fully functional CO alarms safeguard occupants and satisfy code requirements. Fresh batteries and proper placement ensure continuous protection.
Note High-Demand Activities
Jot down typical peak hot-water scenarios—morning showers, evening dishwashing, simultaneous laundry cycles. Sharing this information with the HEP team refines unit sizing and recirculation pump recommendations, guaranteeing ample flow when the household needs it most.
Post-Install Energy Monitoring Tips
Track Utility Bills for Baseline Comparison
Collect gas or electric statements from at least the previous 12 months. After installation, compare month-to-month usage adjusted for degree days. Many Crossville citizens notice a measurable decline, validating the tankless investment.
Utilize Built-In Usage Metrics
Some tankless models feature digital readouts or smartphone dashboards that display:
- Gallons heated per day
- Burner or element firing time
- Diagnostic alerts for maintenance needs
Monitoring these metrics helps homeowners spot abnormal consumption early and schedule timely service.
Adjust Temperature Settings Seasonally
Lowering outlet temperatures in summer and raising them slightly in winter aligns comfort with efficiency. HEP suggests a baseline of 120 °F, increasing in five-degree increments only when colder incoming groundwater requires it.
Preventive Maintenance Details
Consistent upkeep preserves performance, extends service life, and upholds factory warranties. HEP offers customizable maintenance plans, yet many tasks can be understood by diligent homeowners.
Annual Service Protocol
- Inspect and clean inlet water filter screens
- Verify venting for obstructions or bird nests
- Check combustion ratios using flue-gas analyzers
- Examine isolation valves and unions for micro-leaks
- Update firmware on smart control boards when available
Descaling & Flushing Procedure
- Shut off cold-water inlet and hot-water outlet valves.
- Attach service hoses to purge ports.
- Pump a 4-gallon mixture of food-grade vinegar through the heat exchanger for 45–60 minutes.
- Rinse with clean water until pH levels stabilize.
- Return valves to normal operating position and relight the burner or elements.
Winterization Steps for Vacation Properties
Crossville’s winter lows can dip below freezing, particularly in shaded hollows. For homes left unattended, HEP advises:
- Draining the water heater completely via built-in service valves
- Disconnecting and draining recirculation lines
- Introducing compressed air at 30 psi to purge residual water from heat exchanger coils
- Pouring RV antifreeze into remote bathroom traps to prevent freeze damage
Smart Home Integration
Tankless water heaters no longer exist in isolation. Integration with broader smart-home ecosystems amplifies efficiency and convenience.
Wi-Fi Connectivity & Remote Diagnostics
Models with Wi-Fi modules transmit operating data directly to a homeowner’s phone and, with permission, to HEP’s service portal. Remote alerts allow technicians to recommend simple fixes—such as filter cleaning—before a minor issue escalates into a shutdown.
Pairing With Solar Preheat Loops
Crossville averages 200+ sunny days annually, making rooftop solar thermal or photovoltaic preheating an attractive addition. A temperature-controlled mixing valve ensures solar-heated water enters the tankless unit below the manufacturer’s specified maximum, allowing the burner or elements to remain idle for extended periods and boosting overall system efficiency.
Permitting and Local Regulations in Cumberland County
Building Permit Workflow
- HEP submits a detailed permit application citing equipment type, BTU rating, venting material, and gas or electrical loads.
- The municipal office reviews for zoning, floodplain, and code compliance.
- Permit approval usually arrives within 3–5 business days, after which installation can commence.
Inspections & Certification
- Rough-in inspection verifies gas line pressure test and vent clearances.
- Final inspection confirms operational safety, electrical bonding, and proper combustion.
- Inspector signs off on a Certificate of Completion, which HEP provides to the homeowner for personal records or future property resale documentation.
HEP’s Value-Added Services
Warranty Registration Assistance
Manufacturers often require online registration within 30 days of installation. HEP coordinates serial number submission and documentation of installer credentials to secure warranties that can span up to 15 years on heat exchangers.
Ongoing Education for Homeowners
Technicians conclude every project with a live demonstration covering:
- Startup and shutdown procedures
- Error code interpretation
- Simple troubleshooting steps such as resetting power or cleaning intake screens
- Best practices for conserving water and energy through programmable recirculation timers
Community Impact: Supporting Local Water Quality Initiatives
HEP’s commitment extends beyond individual residences. During every tankless installation, technicians collect data on incoming water hardness, pH, and sediment levels. Aggregated findings contribute to broader water quality mapping projects in Cumberland County.
Collaborative Efforts Include
- Participation in watershed cleanup days along the Obed River and Byrd Creek
- Donation of test kits to local schools for STEM water-quality education
- Sharing non-proprietary mineral content reports with municipal planners to guide infrastructure upgrades
By tying plumbing services to environmental stewardship, HEP helps Crossville build a sustainable future—one efficient, tankless water heater at a time.