- HEP Plumbing
- On-demand Hot Water

On-demand Hot Water
On-demand Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Fountain City
Enjoy endless hot water the moment you turn the tap with HEP’s on-demand solutions in Fountain City. Our licensed plumbers remove bulky, outdated tanks and replace them with sleek, high-efficiency units that free up space, slash utility bills, and deliver perfectly heated water whenever you need it. From precise sizing and gas or electric hookups to thorough post-install testing, we handle every detail so you can shower, cook, and clean without a single cold-water surprise.
Schedule your tankless water heater install today and feel the HEP difference. We arrive on time, protect your home with clean work practices, and back every installation with iron-clad warranties and 24/7 support. Ready to step into unlimited comfort? Call or click now and let Fountain City’s trusted plumbing team upgrade your hot-water experience.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of installing a tankless (on-demand) water heater in Fountain City?
A tankless unit heats water only when you open a tap, so it eliminates standby heat loss and can cut energy use by 20–40 %. Because there is no storage tank, you also gain extra space and never “run out” of hot water—as long as the unit is sized correctly. Most models last 18–20 years, nearly twice as long as a traditional tank, and many qualify for federal efficiency tax credits. In Fountain City’s moderate climate, the incoming-water temperature is ideal for tankless technology, allowing higher flow rates and faster payback.
How long does a typical tankless water heater installation take and will my water be shut off?
A straightforward replacement of a gas or electric tank with a new tankless unit usually takes 4–8 hours. Work includes removing the old tank, mounting the new unit, upgrading gas or electrical service if needed, installing venting, and adjusting plumbing connections. Your home’s water will be turned off for 1–3 hours during tie-in, and gas/electric service may be briefly interrupted. Our crew schedules installations to minimize downtime, so you should have running hot water again the same day.
Is my Fountain City home compatible with a tankless system and how do I choose the right size?
Most single-family homes and many condos in Fountain City can accept a tankless heater. The key requirements are: 1) adequate gas line capacity (¾-in. for most whole-house units) or a 200-amp electrical panel for larger electric models, 2) a wall with outdoor access for venting and combustion air, and 3) sufficient water pressure (40–60 psi is ideal). To size the unit we add up the flow rates of fixtures you might use at the same time—for example, a shower (2.0 gpm) plus a dishwasher (1.5 gpm)—and factor in the temperature rise needed from the typical 55 °F city-supply up to 120 °F. Most Fountain City homes need a 6–9 gpm gas unit or an 18–27 kW electric model.
What does it cost to install a tankless water heater in the Fountain City area?
Costs vary with fuel type, capacity, and any needed utility upgrades. For most homes: • Gas tankless replacement in the same location: $3,200–$4,800, including labor, venting, and permits. • Electric tankless: $2,700–$4,200, often lower if the panel already has capacity. • Converting from a tank to tankless in a new location or adding a recirculation loop can add $500–$1,500. While the upfront price is higher than a standard tank, typical Fountain City households recover the extra cost in 4–7 years through lower energy bills and longer service life.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require and do you provide service?
Tankless units need an annual 45-minute service: 1) flushing the heat exchanger with food-grade vinegar or a descaling solution to remove mineral buildup, 2) cleaning the inlet screen filter, and 3) checking burner or heating-element operation. Fountain City’s moderate water hardness (6–8 grains per gallon) means descaling is essential to keep efficiency high and maintain the warranty. We offer one-time and discounted annual maintenance plans; a reminder is sent each year and our technicians handle everything.
Are permits required for a tankless installation in Fountain City and do you handle them?
Yes. Knoxville/Fountain City plumbing and mechanical codes require a permit for any water heater replacement, and gas units also need venting and gas-line inspections. Electric models may need an electrical permit if wiring is upgraded. Our licensed, insured plumbers pull all necessary permits, coordinate inspections with the City of Knoxville Codes Enforcement Department, and provide you with final approval documentation for your records.