Utility Bills
Utility Bills | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Old Fort
Imagine stepping into a hot shower in the foothills of Old Fort and never worrying about running out of warm water—or dreading the spike on your next utility bill. With HEP’s master plumbers at your side, a tankless water heater install means limitless on-demand hot water, up to 40% energy savings, and a sleek space-saving unit that fits right into your mountain lifestyle. We handle everything from proper gas line sizing to flawless venting, all while respecting your home like it’s our own.
Local to Old Fort and backed by decades of experience, HEP’s licensed, bonded, and insured team delivers five-star service every time. We arrive when we say, price the job upfront, and leave you with a powerful new system that can last twice as long as a traditional tank. Ready to slash utility costs and upgrade your comfort? Call, click, or text HEP today and feel the difference before your next cup of coffee brews.
FAQs
What are the main advantages of installing a tankless water heater in my Old Fort home?
Tankless units heat water on demand, so they eliminate standby heat loss from a storage tank. This typically cuts water-heating energy use by 20–40%, lowers monthly utility bills, and provides an endless supply of hot water. They also take up less space, last about twice as long as standard tanks (20+ years with proper maintenance), and qualify for energy-efficiency incentives offered in North Carolina.
How do I know what size tankless water heater I need?
Sizing is based on your household’s peak hot-water demand, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and the required temperature rise from incoming ground-water temperature to your desired set point. Our technicians calculate flow rates for simultaneous fixtures—such as a shower (2.5 GPM) and dishwasher (1.5 GPM)—then match you with a model that can deliver that total flow at a 70–75 °F rise, which is typical for Old Fort’s winter water temps.
Will a tankless unit really lower my utility bills, and by how much?
Yes. Because tankless systems heat water only when you open a tap, they avoid the 24/7 standby losses of tank heaters. Homeowners in Old Fort switching from an electric tank often report savings of $25–$40 per month, while those replacing a gas tank see $15–$25 off their gas bill, depending on usage patterns and local energy rates.
What is involved in the installation process?
We begin with a home visit to confirm gas line capacity (or electrical service for electric units), venting path, and mounting location. On installation day we shut off utilities, remove the old tank, upgrade gas piping or run a dedicated 240-V circuit if needed, mount the new unit on the wall, install stainless-steel venting through an exterior wall or roof, connect water lines with isolation valves, and test for leaks and proper combustion. Most jobs are completed in 5–8 hours, and hot water is restored the same day.
Are permits or inspections required in Old Fort and McDowell County?
Yes. North Carolina Plumbing Code and fuel-gas regulations require a plumbing/mechanical permit for tankless conversions. Our licensed plumbers pull all permits, schedule the county inspection, and provide documentation for your records. Passing inspection ensures your warranty remains valid and that the installation meets safety standards.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater need?
Annual service is recommended: flushing the heat exchanger with a vinegar solution to remove mineral scale, cleaning the inlet filter, and checking burner combustion. In areas with hard water, flushing twice a year prevents efficiency loss and keeps your 15-year (or longer) manufacturer warranty intact. We offer affordable maintenance plans for Old Fort customers so you never have to worry about scheduling.