Hot Water
Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Rutledge
Experience endless hot water, lower utility bills, and valuable floor space when you choose HEP’s hot-water pros for a tankless water heater install in Rutledge. Our licensed technicians size the unit precisely for your household, mount it with minimal disruption, and fine-tune every connection so you can enjoy a steady, efficient flow of hot water the moment you turn on the tap.
From the first call to the final inspection, HEP handles everything—permit paperwork, removal of the old tank, gas or electrical upgrades, and a thorough safety check. We back each tankless water heater install with transparent pricing, industry-leading warranties, and 24/7 support, giving Rutledge homeowners total confidence and comfort for years to come.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of installing a tankless water heater in Rutledge?
Tankless units heat water on demand, so you never run out of hot water and don’t pay to keep 40–80 gallons hot all day. They are 20-40 % more energy-efficient than standard tanks, freeing up floor space and lasting about twice as long (20+ years with proper care). In Rutledge’s mild climate, incoming-water temperatures are moderate, letting tankless units reach set temperature quickly and operate at peak efficiency.
How do I know what size or capacity tankless water heater my home needs?
Sizing is based on peak Gallons Per Minute (GPM) demand and the temperature rise required. We add up the flow rates of fixtures you might run simultaneously—e.g., shower (2.0 GPM) + dishwasher (1.5 GPM) = 3.5 GPM. In Rutledge, groundwater averages about 60 °F, so to reach a 120 °F setpoint you need a 60 °F rise. A family of four usually needs a 7–9 GPM gas unit or a 18–27 kW electric unit. During your in-home estimate we measure actual flow rates and recommend an appropriately sized model so you get uninterrupted hot water without overspending on capacity.
What does the installation process involve and how long does it take?
A typical retrofit takes one full day. We start by turning off gas/electric and water, draining and removing the old tank, and inspecting venting and fuel lines. Tankless units often need a larger gas line (¾″) or dedicated 240-V circuit, plus stainless-steel venting or outdoor placement. We mount the unit, connect water, gas/electric, and condensate drain, pressure-test all joints, purge air, and program the controller. Finally we haul away the old heater and walk you through operation and maintenance. New-construction installs are even faster because lines are roughed-in ahead of time.
Do I need permits in Rutledge, and will your company handle them?
Yes. Grainger County and the City of Rutledge require mechanical and, in some cases, electrical or plumbing permits for water-heater replacements. Proper permitting ensures gas line sizing, venting, and electrical work meet current International Residential Code and Tennessee State Fire Marshal standards. We file all permit applications, schedule inspections, and provide you with the final approval stickers—no paperwork hassles for you.
Are tankless water heaters compatible with hard water in this area?
Rutledge’s water is moderately hard (6–8 grains per gallon). Hard water can cause scale that reduces heat-exchanger efficiency. We combat this by installing a simple, maintenance-free scale inhibitor filter ($8–$12 per year) or, for very hard wells, a full water softener. Annual descaling with food-grade vinegar, which takes about 45 minutes, keeps your warranty valid and efficiency above 95 %. We offer reminder emails and a discounted maintenance plan so you don’t have to remember the service schedule.
What maintenance and warranties come with a tankless system?
Manufacturers typically provide a 12- to 15-year heat-exchanger warranty, 5-year parts, and 1-year labor. Registering your unit online within 30 days doubles some coverage. Regular upkeep is simple: 1) clean the in-line screen filter quarterly, 2) flush the heat exchanger annually (more often with hard-water wells), and 3) inspect the vent/air intake for obstructions. Our installation includes the first-year annual service free and an optional extended labor warranty that mirrors the manufacturer’s parts coverage so you stay protected for the life of the unit.