Installation. While it is possible to install your own tankless water heater, its not a job for inexperienced do-it-yourselfers. There are a number of different sizes and styles of tankless water heaters, including propane, natural gas and electric, along with single-room or whole-house sized models.

Is it difficult to install a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters cost more than traditional tank water heaters; typically about twice the price for the unit alone, depending on what flow rate is needed. Theyre also more difficult to install, as they have special venting requirements and often need larger gas lines because of the higher BTU rating.

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

Installation of a tankless water heater is NOT considered a do-it-yourself project. However, the installation of a Stiebel Eltron electric tankless water heater is relatively simple and can be done by any licenced plumber and electrician.

Can a tankless water heater be installed in an older home?

Simply put, as long as there is enough combustion air provided, tankless water heaters can be installed in any area of your home, from a utility room to a garage to, yes, even an old, dusty attic.

Can you install a tankless water heater anywhere?

Tankless water heaters can be installed anywhere inside your home. You can even have a tankless water heater in a bathroom! Some families with larger homes choose to install two, one for each floor, for example. Because of their small size, they fit in closets, cabinets, pantries or laundry rooms.

What is the downside of a tankless water heater?

The primary disadvantage of on demand or instant hot water heaters is the upfront cost. The smaller units that you often see wont produce enough hot water to serve most households. Theyll only serve one faucet at a time—a problem if you want to shower while the dishwasher is running.

Can you run out of hot water with a tankless water heater?

With a tankless system, there isnt a supply of hot water that can be depleted. Instead, the water heater heats up water as there is a demand for it. It will keep doing this as long as there is demand – and that means you wont run out of hot water!

What is the downside of an electric tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters produce an endless supply of hot water, take up less space, have a lower risk of leaking, are safer, and have a significantly longer lifespan on average. The main disadvantage of tankless water heaters is their upfront cost (unit and installation) is significantly higher than tank-style heaters.

Can a tankless water heater fill a tub?

A small tankless water heater can take a long time to fill a large tub. Two smaller water heaters can do the job of one big water heater.

Where should a tankless water heater be installed?

The ideal location for your water heater is inside the home. Most installations are small and unobtrusive so they will easily fit in a pantry, under the stairs, or under your sink. If you must place the water heater outside, make sure its safe from direct sunlight, rain, and insects.

Can you put a tankless water heater in the basement?

Electric tankless water heaters are designed to be installed indoors in the garage, basement, or interior wall. Both natural and propane gas tankless water heaters have indoor and outdoor models. Indoor models can also be installed in the garage, basement, or the exterior walls interior side to provide venting.

How long does a tankless hot water heater last?

20 years Most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years. They also have easily replaceable parts that extend their life by many more years. In contrast, storage water heaters last 10–15 years.

Why am I running out of hot water with a tankless water heater?

One of the primary reasons your tankless system might stop producing hot water is because its being overwhelmed by the demand. This can happen if there are several hot water appliances in use at the same time. For example, if you run a bath, a clothes washer, a dishwasher, and a shower at once.

How big should my tankless water heater be?

Sizing Guide for Residential Tankless Water heaterHousehold OccupantsUsageCapacity Required (Measured in Gallon)2-3 peopleHigh40-503-4 peopleRegular/Low40High50-756 more rows