One of the most common questions we hear is “Why is it so expensive to install a tankless water heater?”
The installation costs for your tankless water heater depend on several factors including the size of the unit, the location of the heater as well as the location of the venting system.
When you’re replacing your water heater with a tankless model, the first step is always to drain and remove your existing system’s tank.
It may seem like a simple process—just turn off the water supply and open up the valves. But it’s not that easy! In fact, most homeowners don’t realize how much work goes into removing a water heater tank. You see, when you drain and remove your old unit, you might need to do some remodeling around your home so that everything fits together properly in its new location. For example:
-An electric outlet or a new and larger gas line may need to be installed. This requires removing drywall and trim from walls and ceilings so these areas must be calculated into the cost of installation.
-Your plumbing pipes may need to be reconfigured so they don’t interfere with your new unit’s placement or operation.
There are two factors to consider when choosing the right size water heater: flow rate and temperature rise.
The first, flow rate, is how much water is needed at any given time, measured in gallons per minute. The second, temperature rise, is the difference between the temperature of groundwater and your ideal water temperature in the home.
Flow rate is important because if your flow rate is too low, there won’t be enough hot water for everyone who needs it at about the same time—like after dinner or after a shower. If a tankless water heater is too small for your household’s needs, you’ll end up with cold showers and inadequate hot water. But if it’s too big for your household’s needs… well… you may end up wasting energy!
To determine the optimal size for your tankless water heater, use this formula: Flow Rate (gallons per minute) x Temperature Rise (degrees Fahrenheit) = Hot Water Needed per Day (gallons). Then multiply this number by 7 to get gallons used per week. Take this number and compare it with the manufacturer’s specs on their website or in product literature (typically given as gallons per day). If they match up nicely
Tankless water heaters can be a great addition to your home, but you need to make sure that you have an exhaust system for the outdoors. There are two basic types of vents: a power vent, which uses indoor air for combustion and exhausts outside, and a direct vent, which uses the outside air for combustion and requires two vents—one for intake and one for exhaust. This exhaust system will add additional costs to your installation.
Tankless water heaters are not cheap to install, but they’re well worth the investment. They’re less expensive in the long run and will save you money on your energy bills. If you have a large family or a home that doesn’t have a lot of hot water storage space, then a tankless system is a great option for you.
Looking to make the switch to tankless? Contact us today. We are tankless water heaters experts in Vista, North County.
