Tankless Technology
Tankless Technology | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Ooltewah
Imagine never racing to beat the last hot shower again. HEP’s advanced, space-saving tankless technology delivers hot water exactly when you need it, slashing standby energy waste and giving Ooltewah homeowners real utility savings. Our experienced crew masters every aspect of tankless water heater install, so you can upgrade without lifting a finger.
On the day of service, certified plumbers arrive on time, protect your home, and carefully remove that bulky old tank. They size your new unit for peak performance, integrate it with existing gas or electric lines, and perform a meticulous safety and efficiency check before they leave. The result is endless hot water, a smaller carbon footprint, and valuable square footage reclaimed.
HEP backs each project with industry-leading warranties, 24/7 support, and the friendly, down-to-earth care you expect from a local neighbor. Ready to feel the difference every morning? Give us a call today and turn your tap into a fountain of instant comfort.
FAQs
What is a tankless water heater and how does it work?
A tankless (on-demand) water heater heats water only when a hot-water tap is opened. A powerful gas burner or electric element is activated as cold water flows through a heat exchanger, delivering a continuous supply of hot water without storing it in a tank. Because the unit shuts off when the tap closes, stand-by heat loss is eliminated, increasing overall efficiency compared with traditional tank heaters.
Why should I consider a tankless water heater for my Ooltewah home?
Ooltewah’s mix of chilly winters and humid summers means hot-water demand can fluctuate widely. A properly sized tankless unit adapts to this demand, providing endless hot water for large families or back-to-back showers. Energy savings of 25–40 % are common, helping offset EPB and Chattanooga Gas utility rates. A tankless heater also frees up 10–15 ft² of floor space, lasts 20+ years (about twice a tank’s life span), and qualifies for federal tax credits and certain TVA energy-efficiency rebates.
How do I determine the right size (flow rate) for my household?
Sizing is based on two factors: 1. Peak flow demand – the total gallons per minute (GPM) of fixtures you expect to run simultaneously (e.g., shower 2.5 GPM + kitchen sink 1.5 GPM = 4 GPM). 2. Temperature rise – the difference between incoming groundwater temperature and your desired hot-water temperature. In Ooltewah, groundwater averages 55-60 °F, so a 120 °F set-point requires a 60-65 °F rise. During a free in-home assessment we’ll inventory your fixtures, test flow rates, and match you with a unit—typically 6–10 GPM for most 3- to 4-bath homes. Oversizing wastes energy and money; undersizing means lukewarm water, so proper calculation is critical.
What does the installation process involve and how long does it take?
Most residential replacements take one working day. We start by safely disconnecting and removing the old tank. Next, we hang the compact tankless unit on an exterior or interior wall, then: • Upgrade gas or electrical service if required (many whole-home units need a ¾-inch gas line or 150-amp electric service). • Install Category III/IV stainless-steel venting or concentric PVC for high-efficiency models. • Add isolation valves and a pressure relief valve for easy maintenance. • Program the controller and test for gas leaks, proper combustion, and correct water temperature. We follow 2024 IRC, IFGC, and Tennessee State Plumbing codes, pull all necessary Hamilton County permits, and haul away the old tank for recycling.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require?
Although tankless units last longer than tanks, they do need periodic care. In Ooltewah, where water hardness averages 5-7 grains per gallon, we recommend: • Annual descaling: Flushing the heat exchanger with a 5-gallon vinegar solution for about 45 minutes to prevent mineral buildup. • Cleaning the inlet water filter every 6–12 months. • Checking venting and air-intake screens for debris. Homeowners can do these tasks themselves with our flush-kit instructions, or schedule our low-cost maintenance plan that also keeps the manufacturer’s warranty (typically 12-15 years) intact.
How much will a tankless system cost, and what savings or incentives are available?
Installed prices in the Ooltewah area range from $2,800–$4,500 for a typical gas unit and $2,200–$3,400 for an electric unit, depending on size, venting, and any utility-service upgrades. Annual energy savings average $80–$150 compared with a standard 50-gallon gas tank and can be higher for large families. Financial incentives: • Federal 25C tax credit: 30 % of total cost, up to $600 for qualifying ENERGY STAR gas units. • TVA EnergyRight rebates (when available) and occasional Chattanooga Gas bill credits. • Low-interest green-energy financing through local credit unions. With incentives plus energy savings, many homeowners see a 4–6-year payback while enjoying unlimited hot water and added home value.