Hot Water
Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Norris
Enjoy endless hot water and lower energy bills with HEP’s expert tankless water heater install services in Norris. Our certified plumbers replace bulky, outdated tanks with sleek on-demand units that heat water only when you need it, saving space and up to 40% on energy costs. From precise sizing to flawless venting and gas or electric hookups, we handle every detail so you can enjoy consistent, steamy showers and instant hot water at every tap.
Customers across Norris trust HEP for transparent pricing, same-day service, and a rock-solid satisfaction guarantee. Whether you’re upgrading during a remodel or your old tank just called it quits, one call to HEP brings punctual technicians, clean workmanship, and a future free of cold-water surprises. Schedule today and discover why locals say, “Happy E, HEP makes it happen!”
FAQs
What advantages does a tankless water heater offer over a traditional storage-tank model?
A tankless (on-demand) unit heats water only when you open a tap, eliminating standby heat loss from a 40–50-gallon tank. That typically cuts water-heating energy use by 20-40 %. Because the burner or heating elements are larger, you get an endless supply of hot water—as long as the unit is sized correctly—so no more "cold-shower roulette." Tankless systems are wall-mounted, freeing up floor space, and most last 18–20 years, roughly double the life span of a tank heater. They can also be paired with recirculation pumps for instant hot water at distant fixtures.
How do I choose the right size tankless heater for my home in Norris?
Sizing is based on the maximum flow rate you’ll need at one time and the temperature rise between incoming water and your desired outlet temperature. We calculate your peak simultaneous demand—e.g., two showers (5 gpm) + dishwasher (1.5 gpm) = 6.5 gpm. In Norris, incoming water averages about 55 °F; if you want 120 °F hot water, that’s a 65 °F rise. A unit rated at 7 gpm at a 70 °F rise would be ideal. Gas models deliver higher flow at a given temperature rise than electric models, so fuel type matters. Our technician will perform this calculation on site and recommend properly sized equipment.
Will a tankless water heater really lower my utility bills?
In most Tennessee Valley homes, water heating is the second-largest energy expense. Because tankless units eliminate standby heat loss and modulate their burners, Energy Star-qualified gas models run at 0.82–0.95 UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) compared with 0.60–0.67 for standard gas tanks. That translates to annual savings of $80–$120 on natural gas or propane and even more if you currently use an electric tank. Electric tankless units don’t save as much energy but can reduce demand charges. Over the unit’s life, savings often offset the higher upfront cost, especially when combined with TVA rebates or current federal tax credits of up to $600.
What installation work is required, and will my existing utilities handle a tankless unit?
A tankless heater needs a larger-capacity gas line (¾–1 inch) or a 150–200 amp electric service, plus Category III or IV stainless venting for gas models. We’ll inspect your gas supply, meter capacity, electrical panel, water line, and combustion-air paths. If upgrades are needed—common in homes built before 2000—we handle permits, coordinate with KUB or Powell-Clinch utility districts, and install venting through the roof or sidewall per IRC/IFGC codes. We mount the unit on the wall, connect water and gas/electric, install isolation valves and a condensate drain (for high-efficiency gas models), flush the system, and test for leaks and proper temperature.
How long does installation take, and will I be without hot water during the process?
A straightforward replacement of a tank with a same-fuel tankless unit typically requires 4–6 hours. If gas line upsizing, electrical upgrades, or long vent runs are necessary, the job can extend to a full day. We schedule work so your existing water heater stays online until the final change-over, limiting downtime to 1–2 hours. For new construction or remodels, we can stage the installation to align with rough-in and finish plumbing, so you won’t notice any interruption.
What maintenance do tankless water heaters need, and can your Norris plumbers provide it?
Yes. We offer annual or bi-annual maintenance plans that include descaling, filter cleaning, and diagnostic checks. Norris municipal water is moderately hard (6–8 gpg), so calcium can build up on the heat exchanger, reducing efficiency and triggering error codes. We flush the unit with a vinegar solution, inspect the burner, fan, and condensate trap, test safety devices, and update firmware on digital controls. With regular service, a tankless heater can run efficiently for 20 years and keep its manufacturer’s warranty valid.