Upgrade Your Home’s Hot Water System: How to Replace Your Water Heater with a Tankless Water Heater

Are you tired of running out of hot water during peak hours? Does your current water heater take up valuable space in your basement or utility room? If so, switching to a tankless water heater might be the perfect solution for your home.
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, provide a continuous stream of hot water without the need for a bulky storage tank. They offer numerous benefits over traditional tank-style water heaters, including energy efficiency, space-saving design, and longer lifespan.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of replacing your existing water heater with a tankless system, covering everything from choosing the right model to installing it safely and efficiently.

Step 1: Determine Your Hot Water Needs

Before rushing out to buy a tankless water heater, you need to assess your hot water requirements. Consider the following factors:

• Number of bathrooms: The more bathrooms you have, the higher your hot water demand will be.
• Simultaneous use: If you expect multiple people to use hot water simultaneously, such as during morning showers or evening baths, you’ll need a more powerful tankless unit.
• Water usage patterns: If you have a large family or frequently use hot water for laundry, dishwashing, or other appliances, you might need a larger tankless water heater.
• Flow rate: Tankless water heaters are rated based on their flow rate, which measures the amount of hot water they can produce per minute. Choose a unit with a flow rate that meets your household’s needs.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tankless Water Heater Model

Once you’ve determined your hot water needs, you can start shopping for a tankless water heater. There are two main types of tankless water heaters:

• Gas tankless water heaters: These units use natural gas or propane to heat water. They are typically more efficient than electric models but require a gas line connection.
• Electric tankless water heaters: These units use electricity to heat water. They are easier to install than gas models, but they may not be as energy-efficient.

When choosing a tankless water heater, consider the following factors:

• Size and capacity: Choose a unit that is appropriately sized for your home’s hot water needs.
• Efficiency: Look for a unit with a high energy efficiency rating (ER).
• Features: Some tankless water heaters offer additional features, such as digital displays, remote controls, and built-in safety mechanisms.
• Warranty: Choose a unit with a comprehensive warranty that covers parts and labor.

Step 3: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. This may include:

• Screwdrivers: Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers are essential for disassembling and assembling components.
• Wrench set: You will need wrenches to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts.
• Pipe cutters: To cut copper or PVC pipes.
• Pliers: For gripping and twisting pipes.
• Level: To ensure the tankless water heater is installed level.
• Tape measure: To accurately measure distances and dimensions.
• Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.
• New water heater: The tankless water heater you purchased.
• Plumbing supplies: This may include pipes, fittings, valves, and other necessary components.
• Electrical supplies: If you are installing an electric tankless water heater, you will need electrical wiring, conduit, and other electrical components.

Step 4: Disconnect the Existing Water Heater

Once you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials, you can begin disconnecting the existing water heater. Follow these steps:
1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the main water shut-off valve for your home and turn it off.
2. Drain the water heater: Open the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater to drain the water.
3. Disconnect the water lines: Use wrenches to disconnect the cold and hot water lines from the water heater.
4. Disconnect the gas line (if applicable): If you are replacing a gas water heater, disconnect the gas line using a wrench.
5. Disconnect the electrical wiring (if applicable): If you are replacing an electric water heater, disconnect the electrical wiring using a screwdriver.

Step 5: Install the New Tankless Water Heater

Once the old water heater is disconnected, you can begin installing the new tankless water heater. Follow these steps:
1. Mount the tankless water heater: Install the tankless water heater on the wall or floor, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Connect the water lines: Connect the cold and hot water lines to the tankless water heater using new pipes and fittings.
3. Connect the gas line (if applicable): If you are installing a gas tankless water heater, connect the gas line using a new gas line and fittings.
4. Connect the electrical wiring (if applicable): If you are installing an electric tankless water heater, connect the electrical wiring using new wiring and conduit.
5. Turn on the water supply: Once all connections are secure, turn the main water supply back on.
6. Turn on the gas line (if applicable): If you are installing a gas tankless water heater, turn on the gas line.
7. Test the water heater: Run hot water from the faucet to ensure the tankless water heater is working properly.

Step 6: Flush the System and Test for Leaks

After the initial installation, it’s essential to flush the system and check for leaks. This will help ensure that there are no air pockets or debris in the system, which can affect performance.
1. Flush the system: Run hot water from all faucets for several minutes to flush out any debris.
2. Check for leaks: Inspect all connections and pipes for leaks. Tighten any loose connections if necessary.

Step 7: Enjoy the Benefits of Your New Tankless Water Heater

Congratulations! You have successfully replaced your old water heater with a new tankless system. Now you can enjoy the many benefits of tankless water heaters, including:

• Endless hot water: Say goodbye to running out of hot water during peak hours. Tankless water heaters provide a continuous stream of hot water on demand.
• Energy efficiency: Tankless water heaters heat water only when needed, reducing energy consumption and saving you money on your utility bills.
• Space-saving design: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than traditional tank-style water heaters, freeing up valuable space in your basement or utility room.
• Longer lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional tank-style water heaters, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

The Final Word: A New Era of Hot Water

Replacing your water heater with a tankless system can be a significant investment, but the long-term benefits are undeniable. You’ll enjoy endless hot water, save money on energy bills, and free up valuable space in your home. With proper planning and installation, your new tankless water heater will provide years of reliable and efficient hot water service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a tankless water heater cost?
A: The cost of a tankless water heater can vary depending on the size, brand, and features. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a tankless water heater and installation.
Q: How long does a tankless water heater last?
A: Tankless water heaters can last for 15 to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Q: Can I install a tankless water heater myself?
A: While some DIY enthusiasts may feel comfortable installing a tankless water heater, it’s generally recommended to hire a licensed plumber for professional installation. This ensures that the unit is installed correctly and safely.
Q: What are the drawbacks of a tankless water heater?
A: Tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost than traditional tank-style water heaters. They may also require a larger gas line or electrical circuit, depending on the model.
Q: How do I maintain a tankless water heater?
A: Tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance. You should flush the system annually to remove any debris. You should also check the unit’s filters and clean them as needed.