Tankless Gas Water Heater Quick Facts:

• More energy-efficient than traditional water heaters
• Provides on-demand hot water
• Requires less space for installation
• Can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance
• Uses either a propane or natural gas heat source

If you’ve ever found yourself in a situation where you’ve run out of hot water during a relaxing shower or when hand washing dishes, you’re not alone. This common frustration can be solved by installing a tankless gas water heater – an efficient system that can supply hot water on demand. This makes it more economical and eco-friendly compared to traditional tank water heaters. In addition, it can last up to 20 years, almost twice the lifespan of a regular water heater!

At Sanz Plumbing, we understand the value of having a reliable and efficient water heating system in your home. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand the process of installing a tankless gas water heater. Whether you’re considering undertaking it as a do-it-yourself project or looking to hire a licensed professional, this information will prepare you for all the essentials involved.

We’ll be discussing the differences between electric and gas models, the factors you need to consider before the installation, and a step-by-step guide on how to undertake the process. So, let’s get started and help you navigate tankless gas water heaters!

Understanding the Basics of a Tankless Gas Water Heater

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of how to install a tankless gas water heater, understand what it is and how it functions.

What is a Tankless Gas Water Heater?

A tankless gas water heater, as the name implies, doesn’t store water for heating. Instead, it heats water on demand, providing an efficient and convenient solution for your hot water needs. In contrast to traditional water heaters that hold between 40-50 gallons of water, a tankless model supplies hot water when you need it, reducing energy consumption and providing an uninterrupted supply of hot water.

How Does a Tankless Gas Water Heater Work?

The magic begins when you turn on your hot water tap. Cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where a gas burner heats it. This process happens through a series of coils wrapped around a heat exchanger. The result? Instant hot water at your service!

Gas vs. Electric Tankless Water Heaters: A Comparison

Choosing between a gas and an electric tankless water heater depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Let’s break down the significant differences:

Gas Tankless Water Heaters are often the go-to choice for larger households due to their ability to supply more hot water simultaneously. They are 80-85% efficient and require more substantial ventilation and a larger gas line for installation. Gas prices can fluctuate, but they are generally cheaper than electricity.

Electric Tankless Water Heaters, on the other hand, shine in their energy efficiency, boasting a remarkable 98-99% efficiency. They are typically smaller, giving you more flexibility with installation locations. However, they don’t produce as much hot water per minute as their gas counterparts. Electricity costs can be more consistent, but they are often higher than gas.

In conclusion, understanding the basics of a tankless gas water heater is the first step towards a successful installation. The choice between a gas and an electric model depends on your home’s specific needs and your personal preferences.

In the next section, we’ll guide you through the important considerations to make before beginning the installation process. This will ensure a smoother transition from your old water heater to a new, energy-efficient tankless model.

Stay tuned as we continue our comprehensive guide on how to install a tankless gas water heater.

Pre-Installation Considerations for a Tankless Gas Water Heater

Before we dive into the actual installation process, take some time to assess your home’s readiness for a tankless gas water heater. Here are four key areas to consider.

Assessing Your Home’s Gas Line Compatibility

A tankless gas water heater requires a substantial gas supply to operate efficiently. If you’re replacing a traditional tank water heater, you might need to upgrade your existing gas line. Traditional water heaters typically use a 1/2-inch gas line, while a tankless model often needs a 3/4-inch line to meet its Btu demands.

Verifying or upgrading the gas line is a critical task that ensures your new water heater operates safely and efficiently. If you’re unsure about the gas line compatibility, it’s best to consult with a licensed professional. At Sanz Plumbing, we offer full gas line installation, repair, and maintenance services to ensure your gas lines are in top condition.

Understanding Ventilation Requirements

Proper ventilation is crucial when installing a tankless gas water heater. These units produce exhaust gases that need to be safely vented outside your home. Depending on the model and location, you might be able to vent the water heater directly through your home’s rim joist. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for venting the unit properly.

Evaluating Electrical Power Needs

Although we’re discussing gas water heaters, these units still require electricity to power their digital displays and ignition systems. It’s important to ensure that your home’s electrical system is capable of supporting these needs.

Choosing the Right Location for Installation

When deciding where to install your tankless gas water heater, consider factors like accessibility for maintenance, proximity to gas and water lines, and ventilation options. The chosen location should allow for easy access to the unit and its controls and have enough clearance on all sides for proper ventilation.

The location should also be within reasonable proximity to your home’s main water and gas lines. This can help reduce the costs and complexity of running new lines to the unit.

In the next section, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to install a tankless gas water heater. But remember, while it’s possible to do the installation yourself, hiring a professional like us at Sanz Plumbing ensures the job is done safely and correctly, giving you peace of mind and protecting your property.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Tankless Gas Water Heater

So, you’re ready to take on the task of installing a tankless gas water heater. We’re here to guide you through each step.

Reading the Product Manual

First things first, read the product manual thoroughly. Not only will this give you a detailed understanding of the installation process, but it’s also crucial because some manufacturers may void the warranty if their systems aren’t installed by licensed contractors.

Pulling Permits

Next, it’s time to pull any required state or city permits for installing or replacing a water heater. This is a critical legal step that you shouldn’t skip.

Checking Water Pressure

Before proceeding further, check your home’s water pressure. If it’s above 80 psi, you’ll need to install a pressure reducing valve upstream of the new water heater.

Choosing a Location and Measuring the Install Space

Now, it’s time to choose the right location for your tankless gas water heater. Be sure to follow local building codes to confirm the permissible installation spots within your home. Once you’ve found a suitable spot, carefully measure the space where you want to place the water heater.

Verifying or Upgrading the Gas Line

Here’s where things can get a bit tricky. Tankless gas water heaters use more gas than tank-style ones. So, you should first verify whether your current gas line suffices. If not, you’ll need to hire a licensed contractor to install a newer, bigger gas pipe.

Removing the Old Water Heater

Ready to get your hands dirty? Turn off the water supply to the unit and disconnect it from the gas and water lines. If there’s no shut-off valve before the heater, you’ll need to turn off your main water supply. Once done, drain the unit and dispose of it properly.

Mounting the Unit

Now comes the exciting part – mounting your new tankless gas water heater. Create a mounting box that will securely support the unit and mount it securely following the manufacturer’s directions.

Installing the Gas Line

Unless you have strong experience with gas pipe connections, we recommend hiring a licensed contractor for this step. Once the gas line runs to the proper place, install a tee, sediment trap, and gas shut-off valve. After all the gas line connections are made, remember to test the line.

Installing New Water Lines

Next, connect the water heater valves to the water supply line following the manufacturer’s directions. You may need to cut and solder copper piping to the unit. Also, consider installing an expansion tank if your water system has an anti-siphon valve or a check valve on the supply line.

Checking for Leaks

Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Then, turn on the gas and check for leaks again. You may need to bleed the line.

Installing the Exhaust Vent

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to vent the unit properly. Remember to use pipes that are rated for this type of venting.

Purging Air from Water Pipes

Once you’ve installed the vent, it’s time to purge air from the water pipes. This step removes any trapped air in the system and ensures smooth water flow.

Plugging in the Water Heater

Now, plug in the water heater. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this step.

Insulating Hot Water Pipes

To improve efficiency and reduce heat loss, insulate the hot water pipes.

Turning on the Gas

Finally, it’s time to turn on the gas and enjoy your new tankless gas water heater.

While this guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to install a tankless gas water heater, it’s always best to hire a licensed professional like us at Sanz Plumbing for this task. We have the necessary skills and experience to ensure a safe and efficient installation.

Post-Installation: Maintenance and Care for Your Tankless Gas Water Heater

After successfully installing your tankless gas water heater, the work doesn’t end there. It’s crucial to ensure regular maintenance and care for your unit to keep it working efficiently and to prolong its lifespan.

Regular Servicing to Avoid Sediment Build-up

One of the key maintenance steps for a tankless gas water heater is to regularly service it to prevent sediment build-up. Gas water heaters are generally 80-85% efficient but they do require more maintenance to avoid sediment build-up.

Sediments can accumulate over time, affecting the performance of your heater and potentially causing damage. Regularly flushing your tankless water heater can help prevent this build-up and keep your unit running smoothly.

Understanding the Importance of Annual Maintenance

It might seem like a chore, but annual maintenance is critical for the longevity of your tankless water heater. This includes tasks such as checking for leaks, testing the pressure relief valve, inspecting the venting system, and cleaning the air filter.

Annual maintenance also allows us at Sanz Plumbing to spot any potential issues early on, saving you from costly repairs down the line. It’s a small investment that pays off in the long run, ensuring that your water heater remains efficient and reliable for years to come.

Safety and efficiency are crucial when dealing with gas lines and water heaters. If you’re unsure about how to properly maintain your tankless gas water heater, don’t hesitate to call us at Sanz Plumbing. We’re more than happy to help with all your maintenance needs.

Why Hiring a Professional Plumber Like Sanz Plumbing Makes Sense

When it comes to how to install a tankless gas water heater, there’s no substitute for professional help. Given the technical complexity and potential hazards involved, it’s advisable to trust the experts. And who better than us at Sanz Plumbing? Here’s why it makes sense to hire our professional plumbers.

The Expertise of Licensed Plumbers

Our team of licensed plumbers brings vast expertise to every project. We’re familiar with all types and brands of tankless water heaters, and we know the ins and outs of installation. We adhere to local building codes and manufacturer’s guidelines, ensuring your unit operates optimally and safely. Plus, we handle all the nitty-gritty, like pulling permits and testing water pressure, so you don’t have to.

The Assurance of Continuous Training and Updated Techniques

Plumbing technology is always evolving, and so are we. Our plumbers undergo continuous training to stay updated on the latest techniques and advancements. This commitment to learning means we’re equipped to install your tankless gas water heater efficiently, accurately, and with minimal disruption to your routine.

The Peace of Mind of an Insured and Bonded Service

At Sanz Plumbing, we understand that your home is your haven. That’s why we’re fully insured and bonded, providing you with peace of mind. If any unforeseen circumstances arise during the installation, you’re protected. And with our emergency plumbing services, we’re ready to respond promptly to any issue, anytime.

In conclusion, while knowing how to install a tankless gas water heater can be useful, having a professional handle the job is priceless. You’ll not only avoid potential pitfalls and hazards but also ensure that your unit is installed correctly, safely, and efficiently. At Sanz Plumbing, we’re here to provide you with a seamless and worry-free installation experience, so you can enjoy the benefits of your new tankless gas water heater as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule your installation.

Conclusion: Enjoying the Benefits of Your Tankless Gas Water Heater

Congratulations! If you’ve followed our comprehensive guide on how to install a tankless gas water heater, you’re now on your way to experiencing the numerous advantages this system offers. Not only does a tankless water heater provide on-demand hot water, but it’s also an energy-efficient choice that can reduce your utility bills and last up to 20 years! It’s an investment that truly pays off in the long run.

Though, that even the most efficient water heater requires regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best. Gas models, in particular, should be serviced annually to avoid sediment build-up and ensure their efficiency stays between 80-85%. At Sanz Plumbing, we’re here not just for the initial installation, but also for the ongoing care of your new water heater.

While our guide provides a detailed overview of the installation process, it’s always recommended to have a licensed professional plumber do the work. This is not just about getting the job done right – it’s about your health and safety. This is why at Sanz Plumbing, we have a team of licensed and experienced professionals ready to ensure everything is done correctly and safely.

Finally, we understand that installing a tankless gas water heater might be a complex task for some homeowners. If you feel uncertain or overwhelmed at any point, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team at Sanz Plumbing is committed to helping you every step of the way.

We hope this guide has been helpful in demonstrating the process of installing a tankless gas water heater. We’re confident that you’ll be enjoying the benefits of your new system in no time. For more tips and insights on home maintenance and improvement, check out our other blog posts.

From all of us at Sanz Plumbing, we thank you for trusting us with your plumbing needs. As always, your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Contact Sanz Plumbing today to schedule your tankless gas water heater installation or maintenance. We’re here to ensure that your home is equipped with the best plumbing solutions.