Energy Savings
Energy Savings | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Jonesborough
Tired of lukewarm showers and sky-high utility bills? HEP’s Energy Savings Plumbing team brings Jonesborough homeowners the comfort and efficiency of on-demand hot water with our expert tankless water heater install service. A compact, wall-mounted unit heats water only when you need it, slashing standby energy loss and giving you an endless stream of hot water for morning routines, laundry marathons, and everything in between.
Our licensed technicians handle the entire process—from sizing the perfect high-efficiency model to precision installation and post-job cleanup—so you can start enjoying lower energy costs and reclaimed storage space right away. Backed by local, 24/7 support and industry-leading warranties, HEP makes upgrading to tankless simple, reliable, and surprisingly affordable. Ready to future-proof your home’s hot water? Give us a call today and feel the HEP difference with every steaming shower.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater save energy compared to a traditional tank system?
Traditional water heaters continually re-heat 40–80 gallons of stored water, which wastes energy through standby heat loss. A tankless (on-demand) unit uses high-efficiency burners or electric elements to heat water only when a hot-water tap is opened. Because the unit fires up for just the time you need hot water, it can cut water-heating energy use by 24–34 % for homes that draw less than 41 gallons per day, and around 8–14 % for heavier-use households. Most ENERGY STAR®-rated gas tankless models operate at 0.93–0.98 UEF (Uniform Energy Factor), far higher than the 0.60–0.65 UEF of many storage heaters.
Is a tankless water heater the right choice for Jonesborough’s climate and water quality?
Yes. Jonesborough’s moderate winters mean incoming groundwater temperatures are not as cold as in northern states, so tankless heaters can reach setpoint with less fuel. Local water hardness averages 3–6 gpg (grains per gallon), which is considered slightly hard but not extreme; annual flushing and a simple inline scale filter are usually sufficient to prevent mineral buildup in the heat exchanger. Because many Jonesborough homes rely on natural gas or propane, high-efficiency gas condensing models are an excellent fit. Electric tankless units can also work well where adequate service (150–200 amp panels) is available.
What size tankless unit do I need for my Jonesborough home?
Sizing is based on two factors: (1) total flow rate required when several fixtures run at once, and (2) the temperature rise needed (difference between incoming water temperature and desired hot-water setpoint, typically 120 °F). In Jonesborough the winter inlet temperature averages 52 °F, so you need roughly a 68 °F rise. If you want to operate a shower (2.0 gpm) and a dishwasher (1.5 gpm) simultaneously, choose a unit that can deliver 3.5–4.0 gpm at a 70 °F rise. Most households select a 180,000 BTU gas condensing model or a 27 kW electric unit. Our technicians perform a detailed load calculation during the on-site visit to guarantee the correct capacity.
What is the typical installation process and timeline?
1. On-site assessment (1 hour): We inspect gas or electrical service, venting paths, and mounting locations. 2. Quote & permitting (1–2 days): You receive a written estimate; we file any required town or county permits. 3. Installation day (4–8 hours): • Drain and remove old tank. • Mount new tankless unit on wall. • Upgrade gas line or electrical wiring as needed. • Install stainless-steel condensing vent or outdoor termination. • Add isolation valves, pressure relief, and condensate neutralizer. • Flush system, test for leaks, set temperature, and demonstrate controls. 4. Final inspection (if required) within 48 hours. Most projects are completed start-to-finish in 2–3 business days.
How much can I expect to save on utility bills, and are there any rebates available locally?
Energy savings depend on hot-water usage and fuel type, but Jonesborough homeowners typically report $80–$150 per year in lower gas or electric costs. Over a 20-year lifespan, that’s $1,600–$3,000—often enough to offset the higher upfront price. Atmos Energy currently offers a $300 rebate for qualifying ENERGY STAR gas tankless heaters, and the federal 25C tax credit can cover 30 % of the installed cost (up to $600). Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) customers may also receive low-interest financing on their utility bill. We handle all paperwork to ensure you receive every incentive.
What maintenance is required and how long does a tankless water heater last?
Annual service is recommended: • Flush the heat exchanger with a 4-gallon vinegar or citric-acid solution to remove scale. • Clean the inlet screen filter and condensate trap. • Check burner, fan, and vent for debris. With routine maintenance, modern stainless-steel heat exchangers last 20–25 years—roughly double the life expectancy of storage tanks. Most manufacturers provide a 12–15 year heat-exchanger warranty and 5 years on parts; our company adds a 1-year labor warranty and offers affordable service plans to keep your system running at peak efficiency.