Switching to a tankless water heater is one of the smartest decisions any homeowner can make. It gives you hot water on demand, saves energy, and takes up way less space. But before you enjoy those perks, there’s the installation to deal with. This part is best left to a pro. A plumber does more than just hook up the unit. There’s planning, prep, and a good bit of technical work involved.
Here’s what you can expect every step of the way.
Pre-Installation Inspection
It all starts with a full check of your home’s plumbing. Your plumber needs to see if your house is ready for a tankless system. They’ll look at your water lines, check your gas supply if needed, and see if your ventilation setup meets the right standards.
At the same time, they’ll talk with you about your water habits. How big is your family? How many appliances do you use at once? This helps them decide how powerful your new unit should be. Choosing the right size matters if you want steady hot water in every part of the house. With this early inspection, you get a clear picture of what needs to be done.
Choosing the Right Unit
Next comes choosing the unit itself. Your plumber will recommend a model that fits your needs and home layout. They’ll look at your current setup and make sure the new system will work well with it. They’ll also explain the differences between gas and electric units. Each type has pros and cons, and not every home is wired for both.
Flow rate is also part of the discussion. That just means how much hot water you’ll get at once. If you use multiple fixtures together, like two showers and a dishwasher, you’ll need a unit that can keep up. Your plumber will help you choose one that won’t leave anyone shivering.
Upgrading Plumbing and Electrical Systems
If your home’s plumbing or electrical setup is outdated, some upgrades might be needed. Your tankless unit may need a larger gas line or dedicated electric circuit. That depends on the model and your home’s existing system. Your plumber will let you know if something needs to change before moving forward.
They’ll also make sure all gas or electric connections are safe and secure. Tankless systems run differently than tank-style heaters, so every part of the setup needs to follow safety codes. If permits are required, your plumber will pull them and make sure everything is up to local standards.
Removal of Old Water Heater
Out with the old, in with the new. Your plumber will safely drain and disconnect your old water heater. This step can get messy if not done right, but they’ll handle it without a problem. Once it’s drained and detached, they’ll remove it from your home and clean up the area before installing the new unit.
Sometimes parts like valves or connectors can be reused, but your plumber will check each one first. Anything worn out or outdated gets replaced. That way, your new system starts with a clean slate.
Mounting and Installing the New Unit
Now it’s time for the main event. Your plumber will mount the tankless unit securely on the wall. These units need solid support and good placement. Once it’s in position, they’ll connect it to your water supply, gas line, or electric source.
Ventilation is a big part of this step. Tankless heaters must vent properly to stay safe and efficient. Your plumber will install a venting system that fits the unit and your home’s layout. They’ll double-check that air flows the way it should, and nothing backs up indoors.
Testing and System Setup
Once the system is installed, it needs a full test. Your plumber will flush it out first. This clears any debris or trapped air from the lines. Then they’ll check all the connections for leaks and make sure the unit heats water the way it should.
The final step here is setting your preferred temperature. Tankless units have easy-to-use controls, and your plumber will walk you through how to adjust them. This step ensures your water stays hot but safe.
Final Walkthrough and Maintenance Tips
Before your plumber packs up, they’ll give you a full walkthrough of your new system. You’ll learn how it works, how to adjust the settings, and what to do if something doesn’t seem right.
They’ll also explain basic maintenance. That includes flushing the system once a year and keeping an eye on any warning lights. Some units even let you schedule maintenance alerts. Your plumber will tell you what to watch for and when to call for help.
Maximize the Benefits of Going Tankless—Choose Doug the Plumber for Expert Installation
Upgrading to a tankless water heater can change the way your home runs. But the key is proper installation. A rushed or sloppy job can leave you with cold water and a costly water heater repair. With Doug the Plumber, you don’t have to worry about that.
We handle everything from prep work to cleanup. We make sure your new system runs smoothly and safely from day one. Our years of experience installing and maintaining tankless water heaters guarantee you nothing but professional and clean work.
Ready to make the switch? Book your tankless water heater installation with Doug the Plumber today!
