Standby Energy Losses
Standby Energy Losses | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Knoxville
Stop paying to keep water hot when no one’s using it. HEP’s standby energy losses plumbing solution puts an end to wasted dollars by replacing bulky tanks with sleek, on-demand technology—expertly handled through our signature tankless water heater install. Knoxville homeowners enjoy endless hot water, lower utility bills, and reclaimed closet space, all delivered by technicians who treat your home like their own.
From sizing the right unit to hauling away the old heater, we manage every step with transparent pricing, same-day service options, and a rock-solid satisfaction guarantee. Join the thousands of East Tennesseans who have already upgraded; schedule your tankless water heater install today and feel the difference every time you turn on the tap.
FAQs
What are standby energy losses, and how does a tankless water heater eliminate them?
Standby energy losses are the heat and energy that escape from a traditional storage-tank water heater as hot water sits unused in the tank. The system cycles on and off all day to re-heat that stored water, wasting energy even when no one is using hot water. A tankless water heater, sometimes called an on-demand heater, has no storage tank. It activates a high-efficiency heat exchanger only when a hot-water tap opens, heating water as it flows through the unit and shutting off immediately afterward. Because there is no reservoir of water continually being reheated, standby losses drop to nearly zero, which translates into lower monthly energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Is a tankless water heater a good choice for Knoxville’s climate and water quality?
Yes. Knoxville’s moderate climate means inlet-water temperatures are not as cold as in northern regions, allowing tankless units to reach desired output temperatures with less energy. Knoxville’s municipal water hardness averages 3–5 grains per gallon, considered mildly hard, so scale buildup is slower than in high-hardness regions. However, we still recommend an annual or bi-annual flush with white vinegar or a manufacturer-approved descaling solution to maintain peak efficiency and protect the heat exchanger. If you rely on a private well with higher mineral content, a simple whole-house sediment filter and water softener can ensure long-term performance. Overall, Knoxville homeowners typically see excellent results and lower utility costs after switching to a tankless system.
How much can I expect to save on energy bills by switching to a tankless water heater in Knoxville?
Savings vary by household size, hot-water usage patterns, and the efficiency of your old tank, but most Knoxville homeowners report 20–40 % lower water-heating costs. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates gas-fired tankless units save an average of $108 per year and electric models about $44 compared with standard tanks; however, those figures are national averages for a typical three-person household. In Knoxville—where natural-gas prices are relatively low and TVA electric rates encourage off-peak usage—you may see slightly different numbers. A family of four replacing a 10-year-old, 0.58-EF (energy factor) 50-gallon gas tank with a 0.93-UEF tankless unit can save $150–$200 per year, recouping the installation cost in 5–7 years while adding resale value to the home.
What size (flow-rate) tankless water heater do I need for my Knoxville home?
Tankless heaters are sized by maximum gallons per minute (GPM) they can heat at a specific temperature rise. In Knoxville, winter incoming water is roughly 50 °F and summer about 60 °F. To reach a comfortable 120 °F, you need a 60 – 70 °F rise in January and 50 – 60 °F in July. Add the GPM of fixtures you might run simultaneously—for example, a shower (2.0 GPM) plus a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) totals 3.5 GPM. A family of four often chooses a gas unit rated 7–9 GPM at 70 °F rise, while smaller households or point-of-use applications may opt for 4–6 GPM models. Our technicians perform a free sizing calculation, factoring in the number of bathrooms, flow-restricted fixtures, and peak-use habits to ensure the unit never falls short during Knoxville’s cold snaps.
Will my existing plumbing or gas/electrical service need upgrades before installing a tankless unit?
Possibly. Tankless systems often require: 1) Larger gas lines (3⁄4″) and a Category III or IV vent for gas models. Many Knoxville homes built before 2000 have 1⁄2″ gas lines sized for low-BTU appliances; we’ll measure demand and up-size if needed. 2) A dedicated 120 V outlet for electronic ignition (gas units) or 150–200 A electric service for whole-house electric models. We coordinate with licensed electricians if a panel upgrade is necessary. 3) A condensate drain for high-efficiency condensing units. 4) Isolation valves and a flush kit to simplify annual maintenance. Domestic water lines rarely need modification other than rerouting from the old tank location to the wall-mounted tankless unit, freeing up floor space in the utility room. During a free in-home estimate, we identify all code requirements and provide a fixed-price quote with no surprises.
How long does installation take, and are permits required in Knoxville?
A typical replacement of a gas storage tank with a wall-hung condensing tankless unit takes 5–8 hours for one of our licensed crews, including removal and disposal of the old tank, rerouting water lines, installing isolation valves, hanging and venting the new heater, and verifying gas-line sizing and leak-testing. Electric tankless installations can be quicker unless a service-panel upgrade is needed. The City of Knoxville and Knox County require mechanical and (if gas) plumbing permits, plus an inspection for venting, gas pressure, and combustion air. We handle all permit applications, schedule the inspector, and supply documentation for manufacturer warranty registration. Homeowners don’t have to miss work—only a brief visit after the water and power are restored to review system operation and maintenance steps.