Tankless Upgrade
Tankless Upgrade | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Pikeville
Tired of cold-water surprises and bulky, inefficient tanks? HEP’s expert plumbers in Pikeville make the switch effortless, replacing outdated heaters with sleek, on-demand technology that delivers a steady stream of hot water the instant you need it. Our licensed team handles the entire tankless water heater install process—from precise sizing and gas or electric conversions to clean, code-compliant hookups—so you can enjoy endless hot showers, lower utility bills, and extra closet space without lifting a wrench.
Every project comes with transparent pricing, fast scheduling, and the peace of mind of HEP’s 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether you’re upgrading a busy family home or outfitting a new build, we tailor each system to your lifestyle and water-usage habits, maximizing efficiency and extending equipment life. Ready to experience hot water on your terms? Call or click today, and Pikeville’s most trusted plumbing pros will handle the rest.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of upgrading to a tankless water heater in Pikeville?
Tankless units heat water on demand, so you never run out of hot water during long showers or back-to-back loads of laundry. Because they don’t keep 40–80 gallons hot all day, they typically cut water-heating energy use by 25–40 %, which shows up on Pikeville electric or natural-gas bills. They’re wall-mounted, freeing up floor space, and most models last 18–20 years—nearly double the life of a standard storage tank. Many units also qualify for federal tax credits and Kentucky utility rebates, further offsetting the initial cost.
How much does a professional tankless water heater installation cost in Pikeville?
Pricing varies by fuel type, size, venting requirements, and how much retrofitting your existing plumbing and gas or electric lines need. In Pikeville, the typical total investment ranges from $2,800–$4,800 for a gas tankless system and $2,200–$3,500 for an electric unit, including the heater, new venting, a condensate drain, isolation valves, and professional labor. Homes that need a gas line upsized, a larger electrical circuit, or a water softener can add $400–$1,200. We provide free on-site evaluations and a fixed written quote so you know exact costs before any work begins.
Is my home compatible with a tankless system, or will major upgrades be required?
Most Pikeville homes can accept a tankless unit without major structural changes. We inspect three key areas: 1. Gas supply or electrical service—Gas models need a ¾-inch line and 150–200 k Btu/h capacity; electric models require 120–200 amp service and space for 2–3 double-pole breakers. 2. Venting—High-efficiency gas units use 2- or 3-inch PVC through an exterior wall or the roof. We re-use existing chaseways when possible. 3. Water quality—If your household supply exceeds 12 gpg hardness (common in Eastern Kentucky), we recommend a softener or scale-inhibitor filter to protect the heat exchanger. After our evaluation we’ll outline any minor upgrades needed and include them in one seamless installation package.
How long does the installation take, and will I be without hot water?
A straightforward replacement—removing the old tank and hanging a new tankless unit—typically takes 6–8 hours. Homes requiring a new vent penetration, gas line upsizing, or electrical sub-panel work may extend to a full day. We coordinate the schedule so you’re without hot water for only 3–5 hours, and we can stage the install to restore hot water the same day. In rare cases where local inspections delay gas activation, we provide temporary electric boosters to keep you in hot water overnight.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater need in our area?
To keep the 12-year heat-exchanger warranty valid, manufacturers call for a yearly flush with a 5-gallon food-grade vinegar solution to dissolve mineral scale. Our Pikeville service plan includes this flush, a combustion check, descaling of the inlet screen, and software updates for Wi-Fi–enabled models. Homes on well water or hard municipal water should flush every 6 months. The procedure takes about 45 minutes and costs far less than replacing a scaled heat exchanger.
Are there any local codes or permits required for a tankless installation in Pikeville?
Yes. Pikeville adopts the Kentucky Residential Code, which references the International Plumbing, Fuel Gas, and Mechanical Codes. A plumbing permit and, for gas units, a mechanical/fuel-gas permit are required. We handle the paperwork, schedule the inspection with the City of Pikeville or Pike County inspector, and provide the compliance certificate for your records and future home resale. Using a licensed master plumber/contractor protects your warranty and ensures the installation meets safety standards for combustion air, vent termination, and pressure relief discharge.