Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless Water Heaters | Plumbing | Decherd
Enjoy endless, on-demand hot water in Decherd with HEP’s high-efficiency tankless water heaters. Our local team designs every installation to fit your home’s size, usage habits, and energy goals, so you get superior comfort without the bulky storage tank—or the wasted dollars that come with reheating it. Because tankless units only heat water when you need it, you can look forward to lower utility bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and the luxurious feeling of a shower that never runs cold.
From the moment you schedule, HEP’s seasoned technicians handle every detail with precision plumbing expertise, completing most installations the very same day and backing their work with industry-leading warranties. Whether you’re swapping out an aging tank or building your dream home, we deliver a clean, courteous experience, haul away the old equipment, and leave your space spotless. Discover why your neighbors trust us to keep the hot water flowing—call or book online now and let HEP make comfort limitless.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work and what benefits does it offer Decherd homeowners?
Unlike traditional tanks that store and continually re-heat 40–80 gallons of water, a tankless unit senses flow, ignites a gas burner or activates an electric element, and heats water only as it passes through a heat exchanger. Hot water is produced within seconds and continues for as long as the tap is open. The major benefits for Decherd residents include endless hot water, up to 40 % lower energy use, wall-mounted space savings, and a service life that can double that of a tank heater. Because our ground-water temperature averages 58–60 °F, local units are calibrated to reach 120 °F without over-sizing, keeping operating costs down.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my Decherd home?
Sizing revolves around two numbers: maximum flow demand (gallons per minute) and required temperature rise. List the fixtures you might run simultaneously—e.g., a shower (2.0 gpm) plus a dishwasher (1.5 gpm) equals 3.5 gpm. In Decherd, incoming water is about 60 °F; most households want 120 °F, so you need a 60 °F rise. A gas unit rated for 4 gpm at a 60 °F rise or an electric model rated for 27 kW would cover that scenario. Large families with multiple bathrooms or a soaking tub may need 6–8 gpm. Our technicians perform an on-site load calculation to match a unit—usually 140–199 kBtu gas or 24–36 kW electric—to your exact needs.
Are tankless water heaters energy-efficient and can they lower my utility bills?
Yes. Because water is heated only when you call for it, standby losses are virtually eliminated. The latest condensing gas models reach 0.95–0.99 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), compared with 0.60–0.67 for most storage tanks. For an average Decherd household using natural gas, that translates to $80–$120 in annual fuel savings and a reduction of roughly 200–250 lbs of CO₂ emissions. Electric models can be paired with solar PV for even greater savings. Keep in mind that efficiency depends on proper sizing, venting, and maintenance; a poorly installed unit can cancel the expected gains.
How long do tankless units last and what maintenance is required?
Tankless water heaters typically last 18–25 years—about twice the life expectancy of tank models. Longevity depends on routine upkeep. In Franklin County’s moderately hard water (7–9 grains per gallon), we recommend annual descaling with food-grade vinegar or citric acid to prevent mineral buildup in the heat exchanger. A flush valve kit makes this a 45-minute task. You should also clean the inlet filter quarterly and schedule a professional combustion check every two years for gas units. Following these steps keeps efficiency high and preserves the manufacturer’s warranty, which usually covers heat exchangers for 10–15 years.
Can a tankless water heater be retrofitted into my existing home’s plumbing in Decherd?
Almost always. Our plumbers assess gas line capacity, venting route, electrical service, and mounting space. Gas models need a ¾-inch or larger supply line and Category III/IV stainless or PVC venting to the exterior; electric models may require a 100-amp service upgrade. We often mount units on an exterior wall to minimize vent runs and free up closet or basement space. Transition fittings allow us to connect to your existing ½-inch hot- and cold-water lines with minimal drywall disturbance, and we can install a small buffer tank or recirculation pump if your fixtures are far from the heater to reduce wait times.
What is the installation cost in Decherd and are rebates or financing available?
Installed prices vary by fuel type and capacity. A mid-efficiency non-condensing gas unit typically runs $2,000–$2,600 fully installed. High-efficiency condensing gas models range from $2,600–$3,400, and whole-home electric units average $1,800–$2,500, excluding any needed panel upgrades. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) occasionally offers $150–$300 rebates for ENERGY STAR® tankless heaters, and we’ll handle the paperwork. Low-interest financing is available through local credit unions and the TVA eScore® program, allowing you to roll payments into your electric bill. Many homeowners find the monthly energy savings offset a large portion of the finance payment from day one.