- HEP Plumbing
- High-efficiency Unit

High-efficiency Unit
High-efficiency Unit | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Erwin
Enjoy endless hot water while reducing energy bills with HEP’s high-efficiency unit plumbing services in Erwin. Our certified technicians specialize in fast, precise tankless water heater install projects that fit seamlessly into existing plumbing, freeing up valuable space and eliminating the standby heat loss of traditional tanks. From selecting the right size unit to hauling away your old heater, we manage every step with transparent pricing and clear communication.
Homeowners throughout Erwin trust HEP because we pair cutting-edge technology with hometown reliability. A tankless system can last twice as long as a conventional tank, and with routine maintenance from our friendly team, you’ll keep that like-new performance for years. Let us upgrade your comfort, boost your property value, and put hot water on demand—whenever you need it. Call today and discover why neighbors say, “Happy. Easy. Professional.”
FAQs
What are the main advantages of installing a high-efficiency tankless water heater in Erwin?
A properly sized tankless unit provides hot water on demand, so it eliminates standby heat loss from a storage tank and can cut water-heating energy use by 20-40 percent. Because the burner or heating elements run only when a tap is opened, the system lasts longer (20+ years on average) and frees up floor space. Many models qualify for federal tax credits or local utility rebates, further lowering total cost of ownership.
How does a tankless water heater work compared with a traditional tank?
When a hot-water tap is opened, flow sensors signal the unit’s burner (gas) or heating elements (electric) to ignite. Water passes through a heat exchanger and exits at the set temperature within seconds. When the tap closes, the flame or elements shut off completely. In a storage-tank system, water is constantly reheated, even during periods of no demand, wasting energy.
Is my home or business in Erwin a good candidate for a tankless installation?
Most properties qualify, but a technician will confirm: (1) gas supply line size or electrical service capacity, (2) venting path for combustion air and exhaust, (3) water hardness (a softener may be recommended if hardness exceeds 12 gpg), and (4) expected simultaneous hot-water demand. We perform a sizing calculation to choose the correct gallons-per-minute (GPM) rating to meet peak demand without temperature drop.
What should I expect during the installation process?
A typical replacement takes 4–6 hours. We shut off utilities, drain and remove the old tank, mount the compact tankless unit on the wall, run new venting (usually concentric PVC or stainless steel), upsize the gas line or install a dedicated 240-V circuit for electric models, connect water lines with isolation valves, and program temperature settings. After pressure and leak tests, we purge air from the lines and demonstrate operation. All work complies with Tennessee plumbing and mechanical codes, and we pull any required permits for Erwin and Unicoi County.
How much can I expect to save on energy bills with a high-efficiency unit?
Savings depend on usage patterns, utility rates, and the efficiency of your previous heater. In most Erwin homes that switch from a standard 0.60-EF gas tank to a 0.94-UEF condensing tankless model, annual gas consumption drops by 150–200 therms—about $200–$300 at current rates. Electric tank replacements can see 25–35 percent savings. Over a 20-year life span, the payback typically ranges from 3–7 years after factoring rebates.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require, and how long will it last?
Routine maintenance is straightforward. We recommend flushing the heat exchanger with a 50⁄50 vinegar solution once a year (twice if water is very hard) to prevent scale buildup. The unit’s inlet filter should be cleaned every 6–12 months, and the combustion chamber inspected annually. With proper care, high-quality models carry 15-year heat-exchanger warranties and often run 20–25 years—double the lifespan of most storage tanks.