How to Install a Tankless Water Heater

Have you been successful in bringing a perfect tankless water heater home? Now you have another primary task ahead, which is accommodating this sturdy device in the heating system. Whether you are about to install a large unit or simply a point-of-use heater, you do not need much effort since modern tankless heaters are highly convenient to fit. Still, this activity requires high focus and making the proper adjustments. Not following the correct procedure can result in some serious accidents. You do not want to mess things up, right?

To facilitate the successful completion of this task, I have mentioned the installation procedure in detail for every kind of tankless heater. You must take safety measures and be extremely cautious while working. Also, if you feel like contacting and getting the labor support for getting the supply of fuel, you should.

How to Install a Tankless Water Heater

Installation of a Gas Tankless Heater

For installation and fitting a gas tankless heater, you will need three primary tools: pipe wrench, drill or driver, and keyhole saw. After the inspection and permission from the related authority, the first step is to make gas connections. It is best to hand over this task to a licensed, skilled plumber. The gas line will connect the tankless heater and gas meter.

If you are replacing a tank heater with this one, the initial step is to turn off the control for water flow and gas supply. Now, flush out the tank and remove it. If you are making the connections yourself, you need to use the keyhole saw and make a hole at a certain point on the surface outside the house. It should be in close proximity to the area where you have decided to place the heater. Then, put Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipes to allow air intake from outside and ventilation of the exhaust gases through that space.

The next stage involves connecting the water flow lines. For this purpose, connect the supply carrying cold water to the heater and the discharge pipes for hot water out of the heating device through the three-quarters-inch copper tube. Make sure to use a high-quality pipe to keep it in the best condition for several years.

For getting hot water in less time, you can install a valve at the fixture present at the greatest distance. It will allow the recirculation pump in the water heater to provide hot water whenever you require it in a few minutes. Lastly, to check if the water heater is functional, turn on the supply for cold water and the gas supply from the main panel.

Installation of an Electric Tankless Heater

Since every household has an electricity supply, it is highly convenient to install them. These heaters do not include complex parts and have simple construction, which also contributes to this factor. Moreover, the adjustment cost of these electric heaters is not high. For adding an electric outlet close to the installation area, you might need the assistance of an electrician.

After this, you have to make a connection between the cold water supply as well as the hot water duct. The first pipe will carry the water inside the electric heater, while the latter will draw the hot water away from the device through a valve. With point-of-use electric heaters that are designed for heating the water for a certain application, you have to select a location for installation close to the delivery point. Generally, they are lightweight and compact in size. Therefore, you can easily install them on the wall.

In addition, these flash heaters provide water according to set conditions under the local code and allow convenient temperature adjustments with the maintenance of constant temperature. These heaters require less voltage than large units. Thus, if you are installing a powerful heater, you have to ensure a more strong electric supply. After the setup, turn on the electric and cold water supply to test the working of the electric heater.

Installation of a Propane Tankless Heater

Unlike electric heaters, these devices involve a greater installation price. When it comes to fitting a propane heater, first, you have to take a permit, just like in the case of any other heater. After the first inspection stage, the further tasks are extremely easy due to certain characteristics and features.

For installation, you will require some materials, including a driver, a keyhole saw, a pipe wrench, and a propane supply line. Now select an appropriate location where you have to install the unit. It can be an attic, a utility room, or a garage. Next, take a three-fourths-inch copper propane supply line and connect it with the heater. In some situations where the pressure is sufficient, and the length of the pipe is shorter, you can use a half-an-inch pipeline.

Now connect both hot water and cold water lines with the tankless heater, the latter being the source for hot water. For vents transferring outdoor air inwards for combustion and removing the exhaust, make a passage in the side area of the wall. Through this hole, route the vent tubes outwards.

The tank-type heaters include the parts that transfer gases via the tank roof. Unlike them, the propane tankless heaters vent the gases in a horizontal direction. The combustion fans perform this essential function. This feature is beneficial during installation. After the whole procedure, turn on the supply of cold water and propane to test the functioning of your heater.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a homeowner install a tankless water heater?

Yes, a homeowner can install a tankless water heater. However, it is necessary to have sufficient skill and knowledge of making connections and selecting the right place for a heater. Especially while dealing with gas heaters, it can be risky for an inexperienced person to handle the gas lines.

How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater system?

Usually, the range of installation costs is between 800 dollars and 3,500 dollars. It includes the payment to service providers. When we compare different types of tankless heaters, propane-type devices involve higher costs than others.

Do you need an electrician to install a tankless water heater?

If your heater runs on electricity and you do not have tools and experience in this job, it is better to hire an electrician.

Conclusion

Though the installation might seem a tiring task and make you sweat in the cold, it is much easier with tankless water heaters than tank water heaters. Doing this task properly reduces the initial cost and allows more savings. It is necessary to take safety measures while doing this kind of work. I hope that the installation procedure for different tankless heaters will not be too challenging for you after going through this article.


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