A Small Electric Tankless Water Heater
Designed with advanced self-modulation technology, this residential tankless electric water heater provides efficient, instantaneous hot water. It is perfect for individual use or supplying a condo, RV, summer home or cabin with hot water.
If you’re looking to save energy long-term and improve your home’s overall efficiency, a tankless water heater is a wise investment. A pro can install your new unit and upgrade your home’s electrical system, gas lines and vents.
Cost
There are a number of factors that influence the cost of installing a new tankless water heater. These factors include size, fuel type and energy efficiency. The size of the unit should be based on the hot water demands of the household and its location, while the fuel type is determined by cost and availability. Finally, the energy efficiency of the unit can be affected by implementing water-saving measures.
Installation costs can vary significantly depending on the type of tankless water heater and the complexity of its setup. In general, gas models are more expensive to install than electric ones. This is due to the need for a gas line connection and the more complicated electrical setup. However, both fuel types can offer substantial savings in operating and energy costs.
The cost of installing a new tankless water heating system can also be affected by the work required to upgrade home structures and systems. For example, if you are switching to an electric unit, the electrician may need to upgrade existing electrical designs and systems to accommodate its voltage requirements. This can incur an additional labor cost of $50 to $100 per hour.
As with all plumbing fixtures, a new tankless water heater requires regular maintenance and inspections. In most cases, this will involve flushing the system electric instant water heater for shower to remove sediment buildup and cleaning out the heat exchanger. This maintenance can cost between $45 and $200 a year, depending on your home’s water quality and how often the heater is used.
Energy Efficiency
In addition to reducing water waste, electric tankless water heaters offer energy efficiency. They use only the power they need to provide hot water, compared with gas units that run all the time and consume energy even when they’re not in use. However, electric models still require a considerable amount of power, so it’s important to consider the size of your electrical circuit and the maximum load the water heater can handle before installing one in your home.
During the installation process, you should carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific wiring requirements. Depending on your model, you may need to install a dedicated electrical circuit or upgrade existing wiring. electric tankless water heater A qualified electrician can help you make the necessary changes safely and ensure that your installation is in compliance with local codes and regulations.
After completing the installation, you should test your new small electric tankless water heater to ensure that it is working properly. To do this, shut off the main water supply valve and bleed the system by opening all the hot water outlets in your house for several minutes. This removes any air in the system and restores the flow of hot water to all faucets. After a few minutes, check for consistent temperatures and look for any hot water fluctuations that might occur during initial use.
Installation
Unlike traditional water heaters, electric tankless heaters use electricity instead of gas. However, they need a steady flow of power to operate and regulate properly. For this reason, they must be installed in a home with a sufficient electrical service. It’s also best to leave the installation process to a professional, as these units can be complicated and potentially dangerous. A qualified plumbing technician can provide quality service and adhere to current codes involving carbon monoxide emissions, thermal resistance, venting, and more.
Before starting the installation process, it’s important to turn off the circuit breaker and water supply for safety reasons. Next, drain the old unit and remove the front cover to gain access to the connections and wiring. Finally, install the new tankless heater and connect the pipes and electrical components. It’s essential to double-check every connection after installation to avoid leaks, which can lead to costly repairs down the road.
To run the electric tankless water heater, a dedicated electrical circuit is required. The circuit should be rated at no less than 200 amps, and the wire gauge must match the specifications of the unit. Using a larger gauge may cause the system to overheat and malfunction. Additionally, the circuit should be insulated to reduce the risk of shock and fire hazards. Finally, a copper ground wire must be connected to the water heater to prevent electrocution.
Maintenance
A tankless water heater needs regular maintenance to ensure that it works efficiently. Some of these tasks are simple, such as cleaning the air filter and water filter on a routine basis. Follow the instruction manual to determine how often you should clean these items, but a general rule of thumb is every four to six months. It’s also important to clean the outside of the unit on a regular basis, as this will prevent dirt from entering the system.
In addition, you should flush your tankless water heater on a regular basis. This will remove any mineral buildup and help it run at its peak performance. This is especially important if you live in an area with hard water. If you aren’t comfortable performing this task, a professional should do it for you.
Other maintenance tasks include checking that the temperature setting is correct and ensuring the water supply line and venting are clear. It’s also a good idea to check the gas pressure is within the manufacturer’s specifications. If you notice any signs of damage, such as frayed wires, contact a professional to replace them immediately. They can also perform a leak detection test to ensure that there are no problems with the hot water system. It’s a good idea to have these tests done at least once per year, although more frequent inspections are recommended.