Energy-efficient Units
Energy-efficient Units | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Fountain City
Ready to trade bulky tanks and lukewarm showers for endless, on-demand comfort? HEP’s energy-efficient units bring Fountain City homeowners the cutting-edge convenience of a tankless water heater install that slashes standby energy loss and frees up valuable space. Our licensed plumbers size each system to your household’s needs, so you enjoy a steady stream of hot water while trimming monthly utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
From the first call to the final test run, HEP handles every detail—permits, precision gas or electric hookups, and haul-away of your old unit—backed by transparent pricing and rock-solid warranties. Whether you’re revamping an older home or outfitting new construction, trust the hometown team that keeps Fountain City running hot (and efficiently). Schedule your appointment today and feel the difference every time you turn on the tap.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater save energy compared to a conventional storage tank model?
Traditional water heaters keep 40–80 gallons of water hot all day, which wastes energy through standby heat loss. A tankless unit only activates when you open a hot-water tap, heating water on demand with a high-efficiency burner or electric element. Because there is no storage tank, standby losses drop to nearly zero, cutting water-heating energy use by roughly 20–40 %. Many Energy Star–qualified models reach efficiencies of 0.95 UEF or higher, so homeowners in Fountain City typically notice lower monthly utility bills once the old tank is replaced.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my Fountain City home?
Sizing is based on simultaneous hot-water demand (gallons per minute, or GPM) and the required temperature rise. We calculate the total GPM of fixtures that may run at once—e.g., a shower (2.0 GPM) plus a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) equals 3.5 GPM. Fountain City’s incoming water temperature averages about 55 °F, so reaching a 120 °F setpoint takes a 65 °F rise. A gas unit that delivers 4 GPM at a 65 °F rise would meet that need. For larger households (two showers plus laundry), you may need 7–9 GPM or multiple units in parallel. Our technicians will perform an on-site demand calculation and recommend the right model.
Will my existing plumbing, gas, or electrical service support a tankless installation?
Often, minor upgrades are necessary. High-output gas models require a dedicated ¾-inch gas line and Category III or IV stainless-steel venting, while electric models may need a 240-V circuit up to 150 A. We start by inspecting your gas meter, plumbing manifold, vent paths, and electrical panel. If upsizing or new wiring is needed, we’ll provide a written estimate and handle all code-compliant modifications, permits, and inspections. In most Fountain City homes built within the last 25 years, these changes are straightforward and completed the same day as installation.
How much does a tankless water heater and professional installation cost in Fountain City?
Equipment prices range from about $800 for a basic electric unit to $2,000+ for a premium condensing gas model. Professional installation—including removal of the old tank, any gas or electrical upgrades, venting, and haul-away—typically runs $1,000–$2,500. The total investment averages $2,000–$3,500 before incentives. Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) and TVA frequently offer rebates of $150–$300 for qualifying Energy Star models, and federal tax credits can cover 30 % of the project cost (up to $600). Over its 20-year lifespan, the energy savings often pay back the difference versus a standard tank.
What kind of maintenance does a tankless water heater require, and do you provide that service?
To maintain efficiency and warranty coverage, manufacturers recommend an annual service: 1) flushing the heat exchanger with a vinegar or citric-acid solution to remove scale, 2) cleaning the inbound water screen, and 3) checking venting, gas pressure, and condensate drains. In Fountain City’s moderately hard water (5–8 grains per gallon), yearly flushing is usually sufficient; homes with water over 10 grains may need semi-annual service or a whole-house softener. Our licensed plumbers offer flat-rate maintenance plans that include reminders, all descaling chemicals, and a full system inspection.
Will a tankless water heater keep up during Fountain City’s colder months?
Yes. Modern condensing gas units automatically modulate up to 199,000 BTU/h, providing stable outlet temperatures even when incoming water drops to the low 40s °F during winter cold snaps. The flow rate will reduce slightly—e.g., a model that supplies 7 GPM at a 45 °F rise may provide 5 GPM at a 75 °F rise—but you’ll still have continuous hot water for one to two fixtures simultaneously. If you have a large household or spa-style master bath, we can install a second unit in parallel or a dedicated point-of-use heater to ensure unlimited hot water year-round.