Typical household water heaters are big storage models that take up a lot of space in the basement or garage. As more of an alternative, some homes install instant water heaters, also known as tankless water heaters. These highly tiny devices heat water on demand, eliminating the need for people to wait for hot water to reach a specific tap somehow. To guarantee optimal appliance operation, installing an instant water heater requires close attention to electrical and plumbing connections with the help of water heater repair Las Vegas.
Requirements For Instant Water Heater Installation
What are the necessary conditions for an instant water heater installation?
- Requirements for Electrical Service
A whole-house electrical tankless water heater is not appropriate for every household. This is because the amp draw of this system is too high.
- Requirements for Water Pressure
Most electrical tankless water heaters may operate at pressures ranging from 30 to 150 psi. A pressure reduction valve must be placed upstream of the heater unless the incoming water pressure exceeds 150 psi.
- Permits
As a homeowner, instant water heater installation is a general thing. In most countries, however, you still have to obtain permission for a safety inspection. This is also true when it comes to replacing an outdated water heater. A plumbing auditor will visit your home and examine the installation to ensure it is done correctly.
Where to Place It
The first step is to choose a suitable wall for mounting the water heater. Where the majority of hot water is consumed, it is logical to locate a whole-house water heater near. Whenever you open an outlet, you will be able to receive warm or hot water quicker. You must have access to a significant cold-water line at the same time. Installation of Point-of-use systems near to the point of use as feasible enables the water to reach the exit in a timely way.
Electric water heaters, on the other hand, do not need venting. Because we might not have a storage tank, we can place the unit in places where a tank-based unit would not fit – think tiny bathrooms or even beneath sinks. Keep in mind that the majority of electric tankless water heaters must be placed vertically, with the water and electricity supply connections facing downward.
Preparation for Instant Water Heater Installation
Before disconnecting and removing your current water heater, be sure you have completed all required preparations—you don’t want to be without hot water for another week or two before you wait for necessary plumbing, electric, or vent work. Check to determine whether your gas meter needs to be updated if you are setting up a new gas unit. Because the device consumes many BTUs, your meter may not have the capacity to feed it along with the other gas-powered appliances in your house. The gas provider may look into this for you and typically update the meter for little or no expense. Also, have the gas provider inspect the manifold pressure to ensure that it is enough for your new unit.
In order to use a tankless water heater, a 1-inch gas connection from the meter to the water heater is often needed. If you need a new gas line installed, it is advisable to contact a skilled plumber. You may wish to have another gas cutoff valve installed immediately before instant water heater installation. Venting is also required for an interior gas unit. Because a tankless water heater generates a lot of condensation and uses a fan to force air out, you’ll need to utilize a category II stainless-steel air vent with securely sealed silicon joints, as seen in the second video below. You may utilize a plastic pipe if you are installing a high-efficiency water heater.
Fulfilling Venting Requirements
If you reside in a cold area, it’s a good idea to add a damper to keep the chilly air out. Depending on the heater’s product and type, it is also possible to install a condensate drain that drains water via plastic tubing from the condensation. This should go into a floor drain or even a utility sink. For all piping and venting requirements, see the manufacturer’s documentation. A gas unit also requires 120-volt electricity. Plan on plugging it into a nearby outlet or hard wiring it to a junction box.
