Tankless Water Heater
Tankless Water Heater | Plumbing | McMinnville
Imagine never running out of hot water again—HEP makes it possible with high-efficiency tankless units installed and serviced by local experts who know McMinnville homes inside and out. Our certified technicians size your system perfectly, remove the bulky old tank, and have you enjoying endless, on-demand hot water the very same day, all while lowering utility bills and freeing up valuable space.
From the first consultation to routine maintenance, we handle every detail with the care you expect from a company built on trust, transparency, and great plumbing. Ready to upgrade? Call HEP today and discover why more McMinnville families choose us for comfort that never quits.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work, and is it suitable for McMinnville’s climate?
Unlike a traditional storage tank that continuously reheats 40–50 gallons of water, a tankless (on-demand) unit uses high-output gas burners or electric elements to heat water only when you open a tap. Because McMinnville has moderate summers and cool, wet winters, a properly sized tankless water heater can easily deliver 2–5 gallons per minute of hot water year-round. The key is matching the unit’s capacity to the incoming groundwater temperature (about 50 °F in winter) so you always get the 120 °F you expect at the faucet.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my McMinnville home?
Sizing is based on two factors: (1) total gallons-per-minute (GPM) you might use at one time and (2) the temperature rise—how many degrees the unit must raise incoming water. A typical McMinnville household that might run a shower (2 GPM) and a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) simultaneously needs at least 3.5–4 GPM at a 70 °F rise. Larger families or homes with soaking tubs should look at 7–10 GPM units or consider installing two smaller units in parallel. A site visit allows our plumbers to measure flow rates, check gas line size or electrical capacity, and recommend the exact model that fits your lifestyle.
How much can I save on energy bills by switching to a tankless system?
Because tankless heaters avoid standby heat loss, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates savings of 24–34 % for homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water per day and 8–14 % for heavier users. In McMinnville, that typically translates to $80–$150 per year on natural-gas bills compared with a standard 0.62-EF tank. Electric tankless models also lower consumption but savings depend on local utility rates. Pairing a high-efficiency condensing tankless unit (up to 0.96 UEF) with a properly sealed vent system maximizes your return.
What is the typical lifespan and maintenance required for a tankless water heater?
Tankless units last 18–25 years—about double the life of a tank heater—because they avoid constant thermal stress on a storage tank. Maintenance is straightforward: (1) an annual or semi-annual descaling flush with food-grade vinegar to remove mineral buildup from McMinnville’s moderately hard water, (2) cleaning the inlet screen, and (3) inspecting the vent and combustion chamber. Many manufacturers require these simple tasks to keep the warranty (usually 10–15 years on the heat exchanger) valid.
Can a tankless water heater be installed in place of my existing tank-type unit?
Yes, but a professional retrofit is critical. Our McMinnville plumbers will: • assess gas line size (most gas models need a ¾-inch line and up to 200 k Btu/h input); • verify 120 V electrical power for the control board and freeze protection; • upgrade venting to category III or IV stainless steel (or use PVC for condensing units); • relocate the unit higher on the wall for proper clearances; and • add a condensate drain if required. In tight spaces, we can mount the heater outdoors or in the garage, freeing up valuable indoor floor area.
Are there local incentives or rebates in McMinnville or Oregon for installing energy-efficient tankless water heaters?
Yes. The Energy Trust of Oregon offers rebates—currently $250–$550—for qualifying high-efficiency natural-gas tankless units installed by a trade-ally contractor (we’re registered). NW Natural customers may receive an additional $25–$50 credit. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act can cover 30 % of the project cost, up to $600, for units with ≥0.95 UEF. Always check with our office before purchase; we’ll handle the paperwork so you capture every available incentive.