Hot Water
Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Pelham
Enjoy endless hot water and lower utility bills with HEP’s expert tankless water heater install service in Pelham. Our certified plumbers remove bulky, outdated tanks and replace them with sleek, high-efficiency systems that heat water on demand, so you never wait for the next shower, laundry load, or dish cycle. We size each unit to your home’s exact needs, secure all gas, electric, and venting connections, and back the job with workmanship guarantees that keep surprises out of your budget.
From the first call to the final ignition test, you’ll feel the hometown care that has made HEP a trusted name in Pelham plumbing. Expect punctual arrivals, tidy work areas, and clear explanations of maintenance tips to maximize your new heater’s 20-plus-year lifespan. Ready to reclaim space, save energy, and enjoy reliable comfort? Book your tankless upgrade with HEP today and discover just how simple hot water can be.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of installing a tankless water heater in my Pelham home?
Tankless (on-demand) units heat water only when you open a tap, eliminating standby losses from a storage tank. In Pelham, where utility rates keep rising, this can cut water-heating costs by 20–40 %. You also get endless hot water, a unit that is roughly the size of a carry-on suitcase (freeing up floor space), and a life expectancy of 20 + years—about double that of conventional tanks.
How do I determine the correct size (flow rate and temperature rise) for a tankless water heater?
Sizing is based on the total gallons per minute (GPM) you expect to use simultaneously and the temperature rise needed to reach 120 °F. In Pelham, incoming water is typically around 52–55 °F. If you want 120 °F water, you need a 65–68 °F rise. Add the GPM of the fixtures you might run at the same time—e.g., 2.5 GPM shower + 1.5 GPM sink = 4 GPM. A unit rated for at least 4 GPM at a 70 °F rise would be required. Our technicians perform an on-site load calculation to recommend the right model.
Do I need permits or inspections for a tankless installation in Pelham, and will you handle that?
Yes. The City of Pelham requires a plumbing permit, a mechanical/gas permit for gas-fired units, and a final inspection to ensure the installation meets Alabama state code and local amendments. We pull all necessary permits, coordinate inspections, and provide the documentation you may need for warranty or future resale.
Which fuel type—natural gas, propane, or electric—is best for tankless heaters in Pelham?
Natural gas is the most popular choice because of its lower operating cost and high BTU output, which supports higher flow rates. Propane is a good alternative for homes without gas service; the units are identical except for the fuel orifice, but propane costs more per BTU. All-electric tankless heaters avoid combustion venting but require 150–200 A of dedicated electrical capacity and often a panel upgrade, so they are used mainly in smaller homes or point-of-use applications. We’ll look at your utility availability, service sizes, and operating costs to advise you.
How much can I expect to save on energy bills after switching to a tankless unit?
According to the U.S. DOE, households that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily can see energy savings of 24–34 % compared with a conventional 40-gallon storage tank. In Pelham’s climate the payback period on a gas tankless unit averages 4–6 years, depending on hot-water demand, local gas prices, and whether any rebates (up to $300 from Alabama Power Gas or federal tax credits) apply.
What routine maintenance does a tankless water heater need in Pelham’s water conditions?
The limestone geology feeding Pelham’s municipal wells means our water is moderately hard (8–10 grains). Annual or semi-annual flushing with a vinegar or citric-acid solution is recommended to remove scale from the heat exchanger. We also clean the inlet screen filter, check combustion settings, and update firmware if your unit has smart controls. Scheduled maintenance takes about an hour and helps keep the warranty valid and efficiency high.