Water Heater
Water Heater | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Sewanee
Feel the difference endless hot water can make in your Sewanee home with HEP’s expert tankless water heater install services. Our licensed plumbers replace bulky, inefficient tanks with sleek, on-demand systems that deliver a steady stream of perfectly heated water while trimming your energy bills. From assessing your household’s usage to mounting the unit and fine-tuning gas, electric, and vent connections, we handle every detail so you can enjoy faster, cleaner, and greener hot water—right away.
Because we live and work on the Plateau, we understand Sewanee’s unique water conditions and building styles. That local insight, combined with 24/7 emergency support and industry-leading warranties, means you’re never left in the cold. Trust HEP to elevate your comfort with a professional tankless water heater install that’s built for today and ready for tomorrow.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of switching to a tankless water heater in Sewanee?
Tankless (on-demand) units heat water only when you open a tap, eliminating standby heat loss from a storage tank. This typically cuts water-heating energy use 20–40 %, provides an endless supply of hot water, frees up floor space, and offers a service life of 20+ years—about twice that of most tank models. Because many homes in Sewanee rely on propane or electric resistance tanks, upgrading can noticeably lower monthly utility bills and reduce your household’s carbon footprint.
Is my Sewanee home a good candidate for a tankless system?
Most homes in the Sewanee area can accommodate a tankless heater, but a site visit is the best way to confirm. Key considerations include: • Fuel source: Natural gas lines are limited in Franklin County; if you’re on propane or all-electric, we’ll size the correct model and venting. • Incoming water temperature: Mountain well or spring water can be cold; we’ll make sure the heater’s flow rate is adequate for winter conditions. • Electrical capacity: Gas units still need 120 V for controls; whole-house electric units may require a 150–200 A service. • Venting and combustion air: We look for an exterior wall or accessible roof line for stainless or PVC vent piping. Our technician will inspect these items and give you a written estimate before any work begins.
How long does installation take and what disruptions should I expect?
A straightforward replacement of a tank with a gas tankless heater usually takes 4–6 hours. Jobs that involve relocating the unit, upsizing gas lines, or upgrading electrical service can extend to 1–2 days. During the swap, your water will be off for 1–3 hours and gas or power may be interrupted briefly. We protect floors, remove your old tank for recycling, and leave the workspace clean. Most customers in Sewanee are enjoying hot water again by dinner time.
What size (flow rate) tankless water heater do I need?
Sizing is based on two numbers: (1) the maximum gallons per minute (GPM) of hot water you expect to use at one time, and (2) the temperature rise required—difference between incoming water (≈50 °F in winter here) and desired hot-water setpoint (120 °F). For example, running two showers (2 GPM each) and a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) simultaneously means you need about 5.5 GPM at a 70 °F rise. A 190,000 BTU gas unit or a 27 kW electric unit would cover that. Our plumber will measure fixtures, discuss usage habits, and choose the correctly sized model so you never run out of hot water.
Are there rebates, tax credits, or long-term savings available in Tennessee?
Yes. Through 2032, qualifying ENERGY STAR® gas tankless water heaters that reach ≥0.95 UEF can earn a 30 % federal tax credit (up to $600). Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) customers may also qualify for modest bill credits when switching from an electric tank to a high-efficiency gas unit. Over their lifetime, gas tankless heaters usually save $100–$200 per year in energy costs compared to a standard 50-gallon electric tank—more if propane prices are favorable. We provide all documentation you’ll need for rebates and tax filing.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require after installation?
To keep warranty coverage and peak efficiency, plan on an annual 30–45-minute service visit. We flush the heat exchanger with a vinegar solution to remove mineral scale (especially important with Sewanee’s moderately hard well water), inspect the burner or heating elements, clean the inlet filter, and verify venting and gas-pressure settings. Homeowners can periodically clean the air intake screen themselves. When maintained, a tankless unit can perform efficiently for 20–25 years, far longer than the typical 8–12-year life of a tank water heater.