A Few Things To Think About Before Having A New Tankless Water Heater Installed
Deciding to install a tankless water heater takes some consideration since tankless heaters cost more than water heaters with a tank. However, you also have to consider that a tankless model should last a lot longer and cost less to operate. Plus, you'll have the convenience of hot water on demand, and that could mean a lot. Here are some things to consider about a new tankless water heater installation.
You Might Need New Gas Lines
A tankless heater may require larger gas lines than you currently have in your home. The plumber who installs your new water heater can also install new gas lines if they are needed. However, you might need the gas company to put in a new meter, too.
Since you probably won't be able to use your old hookups, you may want to consider moving the tankless water heater to a new location. Since a tankless heater is smaller than a tank model, and it attaches to the wall, you have more options for placement. However, you'll need access to gas, electricity, and a vent to the outside.
You Might Need Electrical Work
Your tankless heater can be powered by gas or electricity, so you'll need to choose the best power method for your situation. Whether you choose a gas or electric heater, you'll need electrical hookups. You'll probably want a dedicated circuit, and if there isn't one available where you plan to install the heater, you'll need an electrician to install an outlet or hardwire the new heater.
Your Plumber Should Take The Old Tank
The plumber that does your tankless water heater installation should haul off the old tank, but you might want to make sure and find out the cost in case you want to get rid of the tank yourself. If you want to dispose of the tank yourself, call your local sanitation department for instructions since the tank might have parts that are not allowed in your local landfill.
You Might Want A Water Softener Too
If your old water tank had trouble with sediment due to hard water or silt, you may want to add a filter and water softener to your tankless heater. A tankless water heater is affected by hard water too, and you'll need to do maintenance more often if the water is very hard.
You can eliminate potential problems with sand and other particulates by having a filter installed, and you can eliminate problems caused by hard water by having a water softener installed. Contact a tankless water heater installation service for more information.