Water Heater Installation
Water Heater Installation | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Kelso
When Kelso homeowners want endless hot water without the bulky tank, they turn to HEP for efficient, worry-free solutions. Our certified plumbers size each system precisely to your family’s needs, remove your old unit, and have you enjoying steamy showers again—often in the same day. We handle gas, electric, and propane models, pull permits, and leave every workspace cleaner than we found it, so all you notice is the space you just reclaimed and the lower energy bills.
A professional tankless water heater install from HEP means local experts on call 24/7, upfront flat-rate pricing, and workmanship backed by industry-leading warranties. From the first phone call to the final test-fire, we keep you informed, respect your home, and stand behind every connection we make.
Ready to upgrade? Schedule your appointment today and discover why your Kelso neighbors trust HEP to bring modern comfort—and endless hot water—into their homes.
FAQs
What are the main advantages of switching to a tankless water heater in Kelso?
A tankless (on-demand) unit heats water only when you turn on a tap, which eliminates standby heat loss. This typically cuts water-heating energy use by 25–40 % and can lower your utility bills. Tankless models also supply virtually endless hot water, free up floor space because they mount on the wall, and last 20+ years—about twice as long as a storage tank. Many homeowners in Kelso also like that high-efficiency units may qualify for Washington State and federal rebates.
How long does a typical tankless water heater installation take?
Most residential installations are completed in one visit lasting 4–8 hours. We start by shutting off utilities, draining and removing the old tank, then upgrading gas, water, or electrical lines as needed. After mounting and venting the new heater, we pressure-test all connections and flush the system so you have hot water before we leave. If significant gas-line upsizing, electrical work, or vent rerouting is required, the job may stretch into a second day, but that is rare.
Will a tankless unit work with my existing plumbing, gas, and electrical service?
In many homes the existing water lines connect directly, but tankless models require a larger gas supply line (¾–1 inch) or a dedicated 30–60 amp circuit for electric units. They also need a 120-volt outlet for controls and condensate removal. During your free in-home estimate we measure gas pressure, check breaker capacity, and verify venting routes. If upgrades are needed, our licensed plumbers and electricians handle everything and include the costs upfront—no surprises.
How energy-efficient are tankless water heaters compared with traditional tanks?
Modern gas tankless heaters reach Uniform Energy Factors (UEF) of 0.82–0.98, versus 0.59–0.65 for most storage tanks. Because they fire only when hot water is being used, they eliminate the 24/7 standby losses that account for roughly 20 % of a tank heater’s energy consumption. For a typical Kelso household, that translates to savings of $80–$150 per year. High-efficiency condensing models may also qualify for utility rebates and the federal 25C tax credit.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require in Kelso’s water conditions?
Kelso’s municipal water is moderately hard, so we recommend a professional annual service that includes descaling the heat exchanger with food-grade vinegar, cleaning the inlet filter, and testing the burner or heating elements. This 60-minute visit keeps efficiency high, prevents mineral buildup that can trigger error codes, and is required by most manufacturers to maintain your 12- to 15-year warranty. Homeowners can also flush the unit themselves if comfortable, but many prefer our low-cost service plan.
Do I need a permit or inspection to install a tankless water heater in Kelso?
Yes. The City of Kelso (or Cowlitz County for some addresses) follows the current Washington State Plumbing Code, which requires a mechanical/plumbing permit for water-heater replacements. Gas units also need a gas piping permit, and electric models may need an electrical permit. Our team pulls all required permits, schedules the final inspection, and provides you with the approval paperwork for your records. Proper permitting protects your warranty, insurance coverage, and future home resale value.