Space-saving Unit
Space-saving Unit | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Lenoir City
Upgrade your Lenoir City home with HEP’s space-saving solution that delivers endless hot water the moment you turn on the tap. Our licensed plumbers replace bulky, outdated tanks with sleek wall-mounted units that free up closet or garage space, lower utility bills, and cut standby heat loss. With decades of experience serving Loudon County, we know how to size, vent, and maintain these high-efficiency systems so you enjoy reliable performance year-round.
From the first call to final inspection, we keep the process hassle-free. We’ll help you choose the right model, secure any required permits, and complete a flawless tankless water heater install that meets local codes and manufacturer specs. Ready to reclaim space and enjoy instant, energy-smart comfort? Contact HEP today and see why neighbors trust us for precision plumbing and five-star service.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of switching to a tankless water heater in Lenoir City?
Tankless (on-demand) units heat water only when a tap or appliance calls for it, eliminating the standby heat loss you get from a storage tank. Homeowners in Lenoir City typically see 25–40 % lower natural-gas or electric bills, enjoy endless hot water for back-to-back showers, and gain 10–15 ft² of floor space because the wall-hung cabinet replaces a bulky 40- or 50-gallon tank. Tankless heaters also last 18–20 years—roughly twice the life span of a tank—so you postpone replacement costs and reduce landfill waste.
How do I determine the correct size (flow rate and temperature rise) for my home?
Sizing is based on the total gallons per minute (GPM) you might draw at one time and how much you need to raise incoming water temperature. In Lenoir City, groundwater averages 55–60 °F. For a comfortable 120 °F shower you need about a 60 °F temperature rise. If two showers (2.0 GPM each) and a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) may run simultaneously, you need roughly 5.5 GPM at a 60 °F rise. Our technicians do this math for you, factoring in winter cold snaps, fixture flow rates, fuel type, and venting limits, then recommend a properly sized gas or electric model so you never run out of hot water.
Can a tankless system be retrofit into my existing plumbing and gas/electrical lines?
Yes. About 80 % of our Lenoir City installs are retrofits. We disconnect and haul away your old tank, mount the new unit on a stud wall or exterior wall, reroute cold- and hot-water lines, and install an isolation valve kit for future maintenance. Gas units often need a larger ¾-in. gas line and Category III or IV stainless venting; electric models may need a 150–200 A service panel and dedicated breakers. We pull the required Lenoir City building permits, coordinate any utility inspections, and make sure the finished work meets ICC and Tennessee Mechanical Code standards.
What should I expect on installation day and how long will it take?
Most residential jobs take 4–8 hours. We start by shutting off the water, gas, or power to the old heater, draining and removing it, and prepping the wall. While one tech hangs the new unit, another runs venting through the roof or sidewall and upsizes the gas line (or installs the electric feed). We pressure-test the water and gas lines, flush the unit to clear factory debris, program the controller, and do a full start-up to verify temperature and safety devices. Before we leave, we label isolation valves, review the warranty paperwork, and show you how to use the digital interface.
How much can I expect to save and are there local incentives?
Depending on your hot-water usage, ENERGY STAR® gas tankless models save about $80–$150 per year compared with a standard storage tank, while electric models save $40–$90. Over a 20-year life span that can total $1,600–$3,000. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) periodically offers $200–$300 rebates for high-efficiency gas units, and the Lenoir City Utilities Board (LCUB) participates in TVA’s eScore® program, which may score bonus rebates for whole-home efficiency upgrades. Federal tax credits up to 30 % of equipment cost (max $600) are available for qualifying models through 2032.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require in our area?
Tankless units need far less upkeep than a tank, but they still require an annual service. Because Lenoir City’s water measures 4–6 grains per gallon (moderately hard), we recommend flushing the heat exchanger with food-grade vinegar once a year to dissolve scale. The process takes about 45 minutes using the built-in isolation valves. You should also clean the air intake screen every 3–6 months and inspect the condensate line for clogs. We offer low-cost maintenance plans that include descaling, gas-pressure checks, software updates, and warranty documentation so you stay protected for up to 15 years.