Tankless Water Heater Installation: What to Expect

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They provide a virtually endless supply of hot water, and offer money-saving efficiency by heating water only when needed.

But before you make the switch, it’s essential to understand what’s involved in the installation process. This post will guide you through the key steps and considerations, to help you prepare for a smooth and successful installation.

Professional Installation: A MUST!

While some home improvement projects may lend themselves to DIY enthusiasts, tankless water heater installation is best left to qualified professionals. Here’s why:

Complexities of Gas and Venting: Gas-powered tankless heaters require careful handling of gas lines, supply gas pressure and proper venting to ensure safety. This is not a task for amateurs.
Electrical Requirements: Electric tankless heaters often demand dedicated electrical circuits and may necessitate upgrades to your electrical panel, requiring expertise.
Plumbing Precision: Correct plumbing is crucial to guarantee efficient water flow and prevent leaks.
Code Compliance: A professional plumber will be well-versed in local building codes and regulations, ensuring your installation meets all requirements.

Need a plumbing professional for your tankless water heater installation? Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

The Typical Installation Process

Here’s a breakdown of what usually happens during a professional tankless water heater installation:

Initial Assessment: A plumbing professional will visit your home to evaluate your hot water needs, taking into account factors like the number of bathrooms, appliances, and typical usage patterns.
Choosing the Right Unit: Based on the assessment, the plumber will recommend the appropriate size and type of tankless heater for your home, ensuring it can handle your peak demand.
Learn more about the variety of tankless water heaters Bradford White offers for your home.
Selecting the Location: The plumber will determine the ideal location for the unit, considering proximity to gas lines (if applicable), water pipes, electrical connections, and venting options. Tankless water heaters are compact and can mount on a wall making them a great option for smaller spaces.
Preparing the Space: This may involve removing an existing water heater, clearing the area, and making any necessary modifications to walls or pipes to accommodate the new unit.
Installing the Unit: The plumber will carefully connect the tankless heater to the gas line (if using a gas model), water pipes, and electrical supply. He/she will also install the venting system to ensure safe exhaust of combustion gases.
Testing and Commissioning: Once the installation is complete, the plumber will thoroughly test the unit to verify it’s functioning correctly, providing adequate hot water at the desired temperature, and meeting all safety standards.

Factors Influencing Installation

Several factors can influence the complexity and cost of your tankless water heater installation:

Fuel Type: Gas-powered units generally require more intricate installation due to gas line connections and venting requirements.
Bradford White’s Infiniti^® Series Tankless Water Heaters use natural gas or propane, while our Kwickshot^® Series use electricity and are typically installed at the point of use to provide hot water at that specific location (i.e. under a sink).
Location and Accessibility: Installing a unit in a tight or hard-to-reach space can increase the complexity of the installation.
Electrical System: If your electrical panel needs an upgrade to accommodate the new electric tankless unit, it will add to the cost and time involved.
Venting Requirements: The type of venting required will depend on the unit and local building codes, which can influence the installation process.

Choosing a Plumbing Professional

Selecting a qualified and experienced plumber is crucial for a successful tankless water heater installation. Look for plumbers with:

Proper Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the plumber is licensed and insured to protect yourself in case of any accidents or damages.
Experience with Tankless Water Heaters: Choose a plumber with a proven track record of installing tankless units.
Positive Reviews and Referrals: Check online reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family to find reputable plumbers.

Bradford White installers receive significant training on Bradford White products. Search here to find a Bradford White professional in your area.

Planning for Your Installation

Before the plumber arrives, take some time to prepare:

Clear the Area: Ensure the installation area is clear of any obstacles or clutter.
Provide Access: Make sure the plumber has easy access to water pipes, gas lines, and electrical connections.
Understand the Timeline: Discuss the estimated installation time with the plumber so you can plan accordingly.

By understanding the installation process and choosing a qualified professional, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition to a tankless water heater system. Learn more about the benefits of tankless water heaters, watch our video on the top 3 reasons to go tankless, and see why Bradford White Tankless Water Heaters are Built to be the Best^® for years of reliable and efficient performance.

Got questions about your tankless water heater installation? Our Bradford White Products Team can help. We can help you find a qualified plumbing professional near you who can install your tankless water heater. You can also email the Bradford White Products Team at products@bradfordwhite.com with any specific questions about choosing the right tankless water heater for your home.