Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless Water Heaters | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Mountain City
Tired of the chilly Mountain City mornings turning your shower into a sprint? HEP’s tankless water heater install service swaps out bulky, outdated tanks for sleek, on-demand technology that delivers an endless stream of hot water the moment you open the tap. No standby heat loss, no waiting, and no fighting over who showers first—just lower energy bills and precious space reclaimed in your utility closet.
Our local, licensed plumbers arrive on time, assess your home’s water-use patterns, and size the unit so it performs flawlessly for years. From permits and gas line upgrades to final temperature calibration, HEP handles every detail while keeping you in the loop with transparent pricing and iron-clad warranties. When you’re ready for smarter comfort and reliable savings, trust the hometown pros who’ve kept Mountain City running hot (and cold) since 1981.
FAQs
What is a tankless water heater and how does it differ from a traditional storage-tank unit?
A tankless (on-demand) water heater heats water only when a hot-water tap or appliance calls for it. Cold water flows through a heat exchanger that is activated by gas burners or electric elements, so there is no standby tank of 40–80 gallons losing heat all day. This design saves 24–40 % on energy use compared with most conventional tanks, delivers endless hot water, and takes up far less wall space—an advantage for the typically compact utility rooms found in many Mountain City homes.
Is a tankless system suitable for Mountain City’s colder winters?
Yes, but sizing is critical. Incoming water here can drop to about 45 °F in January, which means the heater must raise the temperature by 75–80 °F to reach a comfortable 120 °F. We calculate the required flow rate (gallons per minute) against that temperature rise to ensure you can run multiple fixtures simultaneously. Our licensed plumbers use manufacturer sizing software plus local climate data so you get steady hot water even on the chilliest days.
How do I choose the right size and fuel type for my household?
1. Count simultaneous hot-water demands: showers, laundry, dishwasher, etc. 2. Add their flow rates to determine peak gallons per minute (GPM). 3. Match that GPM to the unit’s rated output at a 75–80 °F rise. In Mountain City, natural gas models are usually the most economical to operate, but high-amp 240 V electric units can be a good fit for smaller homes without gas service. We offer a free in-home assessment to recommend the exact model, venting style, and gas or electrical upgrades you may need.
What does a professional tankless installation involve and how long will it take?
A standard swap from a tank to tankless generally takes 5–8 hours. Steps include: • Removing and disposing of the old tank. • Mounting the compact unit on an exterior or interior wall stud. • Upgrading gas line (¾" CSST or black iron) or electrical service to handle the higher BTU/amp draw. • Installing stainless-steel or PVC venting and fresh-air intake per code. • Adding a condensate drain for high-efficiency gas models. • Flushing and leak-testing all water lines. • Programming temperature and demonstrating operation. We pull all required Mountain City permits and coordinate the final inspection for you.
Will switching to tankless save me money, and are there local incentives?
The U.S. DOE estimates annual savings of $80–100 for households that use 40 gallons of hot water daily, with payback in 5–7 years. Heavier users save even more. Mountain City Utilities currently offers a $300 rebate on ENERGY STAR® natural-gas tankless units ≥0.91 UEF, and Tennessee Valley Authority rebates up to $150 may apply to qualifying electric models. Ask us about current federal tax credits of 30 % (up to $600) for high-efficiency water heaters installed in 2024.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require and can you handle it?
Because hard-water minerals in Johnson County can scale the heat exchanger, we recommend an annual flush with food-grade vinegar or approved descaler. The process takes about an hour: isolate the unit, circulate solution with a small pump, rinse, then replace the filter screen. Regular service keeps efficiency high and protects your 12- to 15-year manufacturer warranty. Our Mountain City team offers affordable maintenance plans that include yearly flushing, combustion-analysis, and a complete safety inspection.