Installing an electric tankless water heater yourself is certainly possible and can result in substantial savings; however, it’s not a job that should be taken lightly. Although electric tankless water heaters are less complex than gas-powered water heaters, they’re still complicated installations, and each installation is unique.
You must ensure that you have the proper electricity supply and wiring, a correctly sized unit, and complete the job correctly to ensure your safety and the proper operation of the unit. It’s best to be aware of local codes and regulations to ensure that your installation will pass any required inspections.
If you’re confident in your electrical and plumbing skills, the necessary tools, and the correct materials for installation, then you may be able to handle the job yourself. If you are in any way uncertain, however, it may be best to contact a local electrician or plumber who is familiar with electric tankless water heaters to ensure the job is done correctly.
What is the downside of an electric tankless water heater?
Electric tankless water heaters come with some potential downsides to consider. The most notable is the high installation cost compared to traditional electric water heaters. Tankless water heaters require a professional to install, as well as additional wiring and hardware.
On top of this, the cost of the heater itself is usually more expensive than a traditional model.
Electric tankless heaters also require a greater electrical current than your typical water heater. This means your home will need a large electrical panel upgrade in order to handle the power needs, adding to the expense of installation.
Because they heat as needs, these water heaters are more efficient than traditional models which maintain a set temperature regardless of the demand. This can result in higher energy bills as the water heater is running more frequently.
In addition, these heaters can be quite loud, and the sound can be amplified in an enclosed space.
Finally, electric tankless water heaters are not suitable for larger families or homes with a high water demand. As they heat water on-demand, they may not be able to provide enough hot water for multiple simultaneous tasks.
In cases like these, a traditional water heater with a larger tank might be a better choice.
Is it hard to install a tankless water heater?
It depends on your experience level with home maintenance projects. Installing a tankless water heater can range from moderately simple to very complex and time consuming. Generally speaking, if you have basic tools and experience, you should be able to install a tankless water heater.
Capitalizing on detailed instructions as well as researching local building codes and safety guidelines are especially important for new or inexperienced DIY homeowners. If you’re unsure that you can do the job safely and properly, it may be best to rely on the services of a professional plumber, technician, or professional installer.
Regardless of who is doing the job, safety should always be the top priority and chances are that a professional installer will be able to install your tankless water heater more quickly and accurately than an inexperienced DIYer.
Why is tankless water heater installation so expensive?
Tankless water heater installation is expensive for a variety of reasons. The main reason for this is due to the complexity and labor required for installation. Tankless water heaters are not simply “plug and play” units, and require an experienced, licensed technician to install them properly.
Installing a tankless water heater takes more time than traditional tanks due to runnning, installing and connecting all of the necessary piping. In addition, the location and installation of the water heater must be done according to the manufacturer’s technical specifications and industry standards.
This can require additional labor and materials, such as venting and exhaust systems, that traditional tank water heaters do not require.
In addition, tankless water heaters are often larger and heavier, meaning moving them and connecting the piping requires more strength and effort. The parts may also cost more depending on the model and brand of tankless water heater you choose.
The cost of the installation itself is determined by a variety of factors, such as the type of heater, the complexity of the installation, the brand and features, and the labor costs of the technician.
When you factor all of these things together, it can make tankless water heater installation more expensive than traditional water heaters.
What is the average labor cost to install an electric water heater?
The average labor cost to install an electric water heater can vary considerably, depending on the type and complexity of the job. Professional plumbers typically charge an hourly rate of $50 to $90 per hour, with most jobs taking two to four hours to complete.
For larger and more complicated jobs, some contractors may charge a flat rate, typically ranging from $250 to $800. Factors that could affect the cost of installation include the type of water heater being installed (tankless, traditional tank, etc.
); the scope of work, such as the need for new plumbing fixtures; the type of installation required (replace existing system, total new installation, etc. ); and any special equipment or permits required.
Additionally, some local utilities offer financial incentives for purchasing and installing energy-efficient models. Factoring in labor and associated costs, the average cost to install an electric water heater ranges from $500 to $1,000.
Should I replace my hot water heater with a tankless?
Deciding whether or not to replace your existing hot water heater with a tankless water heater is a big decision and it depends a lot on your individual circumstances. Some of the benefits of tankless water heaters include that they have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters and can heat water faster.
Additionally, they are more energy-efficient as they only heat water as it is needed, which can help to save on your energy bills.
On the other hand, tankless water heaters can be more expensive to install than traditional water heaters depending on the size of the unit and they require additional ventilation and require regular maintenance.
Furthermore, they may not be the best option if you have a large family and need a lot of hot water at once.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether a tankless water heater is right for you. It might be worth speaking to a professional plumber who can give you more information about the pros and cons of a tankless water heater and help you decide which type of water heater is most suitable for your needs.
Can I add a tankless water heater to existing system?
Yes, you can add a tankless water heater to an existing system. Tankless water heaters are an excellent way to save energy and money, as they only heat water to the desired temperature when it is needed, instead of keeping it hot in a storage tank.
Depending on your existing system, you may need to make some modifications in order to ensure compatibility and efficiency. To start, you will need to check if the capacity of the existing system can handle a tankless water heater.
You may need to increase the flow rate or electrical wiring to improve its performance. Additionally, you may need to make sure the water pressure is adequate, as tankless units have specific water pressure requirements.
Finally, in order to be most efficient, make sure to install the tankless unit near to the point of use, such as the bathroom or kitchen. Following these steps, you can add a tankless water heater to an existing system.
What size tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4?
The size of the tankless water heater that you need for a family of four depends upon several factors, including the amount of hot water that your household typically uses. Generally speaking, an average family of four will require a tankless water heater that can provide between 18-22 gallons per minute (GPM) depending on the hot water needs of your family.
If your family has a greater demand for hot water, like if you have a hot tub or need to fill a large jacuzzi tub, then you may need to go with a larger GPM for your tankless water heater. It is important that the GPM of the tankless water heater you buy is at least equal to or greater than the hot water needs of your household.
Another factor to consider when selecting the size of your tankless water heater is the size of your home. If your home is larger than 2,000 square feet and has multiple showers, baths, dishwashers, and laundry machines, you will likely require a larger tankless water heater than a household of four in a small, 1,500-square-foot home.
In addition to considering the size of the home and the hot water needs of the family, you should also consider the type of fuels and electricity available in your area. Tankless water heaters use either gas or electricity to heat the water and require a minimum flow rate to start up.
If you are using a gas-powered tankless water heater, you will need to decide on the BTU rating and energy efficiency rating of the unit. If you are using an electric tankless water heater, you will need to decide the wattage and voltage for the unit.
Selecting the correct size tankless water heater for a family of four can be a difficult task and requires careful consideration of the hot water needs, size of the home, and fuels and electricity available in your area.
It is always a good idea to consult a professional installer in order to make the best decision for your family and home.
How much does a tankless water system cost?
The cost of a tankless water system will depend on the unit size, fuel source, and energy rating you choose. Generally, a tankless water system will cost between $1000 – $3000 on average to purchase and install.
However, if you are replacing an existing tank-style heater, the costs could be up to $5000 or higher. Since tankless water systems can be powered by electric, gas, or propane, how much you will spend will also depend on the fuel source you choose and the cost of that fuel in your area.
Keep in mind that tankless water heaters offer higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional models, so you may save money over time in energy costs. Additionally, you may be eligible for energy rebates and tax credits which could make the final cost lower.
Can my breaker panel handle a tankless water heater?
It depends on a few factors before you can know if your breaker panel can handle a tankless water heater. The first factor to consider is the size of the water heater – tankless water heaters come in a few different sizes, and some may be too large for your breaker panel.
Additionally, you will need to check if your breaker panel has a dedicated line for your water heater; while it is generally safe to use the same circuit as other electrical components, it is not recommended, as it could cause too much strain on the circuit.
Finally, you will need to check that your breaker panel can handle the power needs of the tankless water heater – the specific requirements will vary, depending on the size and type of water heater you are using.
If your breaker panel does not have the required power output for your tankless water heater to function properly, you may need to install a new bit of electrical wiring or upgrade your breaker panel for compatibility.
Do tankless water heaters need special wiring?
Yes, tankless water heaters require special wiring compared to traditional tank water heaters. Tankless water heaters require larger electrical wiring than standard water heaters to meet the higher amp load required.
Tankless water heaters typically require a dedicated 240 volt, 30 amp circuit and double-pole circuit breaker with #10 gauge wiring and ground wire. This wiring plan cannot be shared with other appliances, or it will cause the water heater to trip.
If you determine that your tankless water heater needs to be wired with a higher amperage than listed, you must also upgrade all wiring associated with your tankless system. Furthermore, it is important to make sure that your electrical circuit and breaker can handle the additional wattage before attempting to wire the tankless water heater.
Lastly, thermostat wiring must be installed appropriately to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Why is my tankless water heater tripping the breaker?
A tankless water heater tripping a breaker is most likely due to an electrical overload. This can be caused by a variety of things, including: faulty wiring, a short circuit, or a worn-out parts. First, you should check to ensure the circuit is properly wired.
Secondly, check for any faulty parts, such as loose connections, corrosion, and burnt wires. Lastly, ensure the breaker size is correct for the size of the tankless water heater. Most tankless water heaters require a larger breaker than a standard water heater.
If these steps do not resolve the issue it is recommended that you contact a professional plumber or electrician to better diagnose and fix the issue.
Should tankless water heater be on GFCI?
Yes, tankless water heaters should be on GFCI. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, or GFCI, is a life-safety device designed to protect people from electric shock by automatically shutting off power when it detects an imbalance of current signals on the hot and neutral wires.
Since tankless water heaters use electricity and are often in damp, wet areas, they can be vulnerable to the elements, so installing a GFCI breaker is an essential safety precaution. GFCI breakers are highly recommended for all tankless water heater installations, regardless of the heater’s power source — either electric or gas.
Installing a GFCI breaker for a tankless water heater can help prevent dangerous shock and electrocution in case of a short circuit or other electrical issue. Additionally, GFCI breakers can tend to trip when the heater is being used, cutting off the power.
This feature can help protect the integrity of the unit and can help reduce the risk of a fire. American National Standard Institute (ANSI) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulations require GFCI protection on certain appliances, including pool pumps and other wet/moisture-laden installations, such as tankless water heaters.
