Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless Water Heaters | Plumbing | Rockford
Endless hot water, lower utility bills, and space-saving convenience all start with a HEP tankless water heater. Serving Rockford homeowners for decades, our certified technicians size, install, and maintain these high-efficiency systems with the same meticulous plumbing expertise that has made HEP a household name. From the moment we arrive, you’ll see how smart diagnostics, precision craftsmanship, and top-tier brands combine to deliver consistent comfort—shower after shower, season after season.
Ready to ditch the bulky tank and embrace on-demand performance? Call HEP today for a free in-home consultation, up-front pricing, and scheduling that respects your busy life. Join your Rockford neighbors who already enjoy reliable hot water, reduced energy costs, and the peace of mind that comes with 24/7 emergency support—all backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work and what advantages does it offer over a traditional tank in Rockford?
A tankless, or “on-demand,” water heater uses a powerful gas burner or electric element to heat water instantly as it flows through a heat exchanger. Because it only heats water when a tap is opened, there is no stand-by heat loss as with a storage tank. For Rockford homeowners this means: unlimited hot water, 15–40 % lower energy consumption, a space-saving wall-mounted unit, and a life expectancy of 18–20 years—about double that of most tank models.
Will a tankless water heater keep up during Rockford’s cold winters?
Yes—as long as the unit is correctly sized. Incoming groundwater in Rockford can drop to about 40 °F in January, which means the heater must raise the temperature roughly 75–80 °F to reach a 120 °F setpoint. High-output units (150,000–199,000 BTU) can deliver 4–6 GPM at this temperature rise, enough for one to two showers running simultaneously. For larger households we often install two units in parallel or a dedicated “booster” for the master suite to ensure you never run out of hot water—even on the coldest days.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my home?
Sizing is based on the combined flow rate of fixtures you expect to use at once and the required temperature rise. We start by adding up the gallons per minute (GPM) demands—for example: shower (2.0 GPM), kitchen sink (1.5 GPM), and washing machine (2.0 GPM). If you might run a shower and washer together, that’s roughly 4 GPM. With Rockford’s winter groundwater at 40 °F and a 120 °F target, you’d need a unit that produces 4 GPM at an 80 °F rise, which translates to roughly 160,000 BTU for a gas model. Our technicians perform this calculation on-site and recommend the right model so you don’t over- or under-size the system.
How long does installation take and do I need a permit in Rockford?
A straightforward replacement of a gas tank with a gas tankless unit takes 4–8 hours. Converting from electric or relocating the heater can extend the job to a full day. The City of Rockford requires plumbing and, for gas units, mechanical permits; proper venting and gas-line sizing are also inspected. We handle all permitting, schedule the final inspection, and haul away the old tank at no extra charge so you have a seamless experience.
Are tankless water heaters really more energy-efficient, and can I qualify for rebates or tax credits?
Modern condensing gas tankless units reach energy factors (UEF) of 0.93–0.97 compared with 0.60–0.67 for a standard gas tank. That can save the average Rockford family $80–$120 per year on natural-gas bills. Because they meet ENERGY STAR® criteria, many models qualify for a 30 % federal tax credit (up to $600) under the Inflation Reduction Act and Nicor Gas offers local rebates of $200–$350. We provide all paperwork and proof of installation so you can claim these incentives.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require, especially with Rockford’s moderately hard water?
Tankless units should be descaled once a year—or twice annually in areas with very hard water—to remove calcium buildup that can reduce efficiency and cause error codes. The process involves circulating a food-grade vinegar or citric-acid solution through the heat exchanger for 30–45 minutes using a small pump. We also clean the inlet screen, inspect venting, and check combustion or electrical components. Our Rockford service plan includes this annual flush, priority scheduling, and extended parts-and-labor coverage so you never worry about upkeep.