Hot Water
Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Louisville
Enjoy endless, energy-efficient hot water in your Louisville home with HEP’s expert tankless water heater install service. Our certified plumbers replace bulky, outdated tanks with sleek, on-demand systems that free up space, lower utility bills, and deliver a continuous stream of perfectly heated water—whether you’re running the dishwasher, taking a shower, or both. We handle every step, from precise sizing and venting to meticulous cleanup, so all you notice is the comfort.
HEP has spent decades earning the trust of Kentuckiana homeowners, combining honest pricing with workmanship warranties that keep surprises off your to-do list. Schedule a convenient appointment, and our friendly team will arrive on time, respect your home, and have you enjoying limitless hot water—often the very same day. Ready to upgrade? Let Louisville’s plumbing specialists turn your next shower into a spa-like experience.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work, and what are its advantages over a conventional storage tank?
A tankless (on-demand) unit contains a high-output heat exchanger that ignites only when a hot-water tap is opened. Cold water flows through the exchanger, is heated instantly, and exits at the set temperature—so there is no standby tank full of water continually being reheated. This design offers three key benefits: 1) endless hot water as long as the demand stays within the unit’s flow-rate capacity, 2) energy savings of 20-40 % because there is no standby heat loss, and 3) a space-saving wall-mounted footprint that frees up floor space in basements or utility rooms.
Will a tankless heater keep up with demand during Louisville winters?
Yes, provided the unit is properly sized. Louisville’s average incoming groundwater temperature is about 55 °F. In winter it can dip to the high-40s, meaning the heater must raise water at least 70 ° to reach a 120 °F set point. Modern gas-fired tankless models deliver 150,000-199,000 BTU/h and can supply 4–7 gpm even at that rise. During the sizing visit, we measure your simultaneous fixture demand (showers, appliances, etc.) to pick a model that maintains full flow and temperature even on the coldest mornings.
How do you determine what size and fuel type I need?
Sizing starts with a fixture count and the maximum gallons-per-minute (gpm) you are likely to use all at once—e.g., two showers (2 gpm each) plus a dishwasher (1 gpm) equals 5 gpm. We then look at the required temperature rise based on Louisville groundwater temps. Gas units handle higher flow and larger rises, making them ideal for most single-family homes. High-amp electric models can work in apartments or homes without natural gas, but they often require a service-panel upgrade. We also test water hardness because hard water may call for a built-in scale inhibitor or a whole-house softener to protect the heat exchanger.
What does installation cost in the Louisville area, and are rebates available?
Installed pricing typically ranges from $1,800 to $4,500. The unit itself runs $900–$2,500 depending on brand, BTU rating, and whether it’s condensing. Labor (usually 4–8 hours) covers removal of the old tank, mounting the new unit, upgrading gas or electrical service if needed, and venting through an exterior wall or roof. Louisville Gas & Electric occasionally offers $250–$300 rebates for ENERGY STAR® models, and the current federal Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit lets homeowners deduct 30 % of the project cost—up to $600—on their taxes.
How long does the installation take and will I be without hot water?
Most residential installs are finished in a single day. We schedule a 30-minute pre-arrival shut-off to drain and remove the old tank. Once the new unit, gas line, water lines, and venting are in place, we restore water service for testing. Total time without hot water is usually 2–4 hours. If major gas piping or electrical upgrades are required, we’ll let you know in advance and may stage the work over two days to minimize disruption.
What maintenance is required and how long will a tankless heater last?
Because water circulates through small heat-exchanger passages, annual maintenance is important. We recommend: 1) flushing the unit with a vinegar or citric-acid solution for 45 minutes to dissolve scale, 2) cleaning the intake air filter, and 3) checking the condensate drain (for condensing models). In Louisville’s moderately hard water, skipping flushes can shorten life dramatically. With proper care, a quality gas unit lasts 20+ years—about twice the life of a storage tank. Manufacturers typically offer 10–15-year heat-exchanger warranties and 5-year parts warranties.