Installing an electric tankless water heater can be a game-changer for your home’s energy efficiency and hot water supply. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless units heat water on demand, saving energy and space. However, proper installation is essential to promise safe operation and optimal performance. This guide will walk you through the key steps to install an electric tankless water heater, with tips and advice from professionals to make the process smoother.
Why Install an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
Electric tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy-saving features, compact design, and the endless supply of hot water they provide. Homeowners are switching to tankless models to lower their energy bills, reduce their environmental footprint, and save space. But, installing these units requires a bit of expertise. This is especially true if it’s your first time handling electrical and plumbing work.
A few reasons why homeowners choose electric tankless water heaters include:
- Energy Efficiency: Since they only heat water when needed, there is no standby heat loss as in traditional water heaters.
- Space-Saving: Electric tankless models are compact and can be installed in smaller spaces, such as closets or under sinks.
- Endless Hot Water: You’ll never run out of hot water, even during peak usage times.
Now, let’s look into the installation process.
Step 1: Gather Tools and Materials
Before beginning the installation, it’s essential to gather all the tools and materials you’ll need for the job. Proper preparation provides a smoother installation process and minimizes downtime.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Electric tankless water heater unit
- Pipe cutter
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Wire stripper
- Voltage tester
- Piping and fittings (copper or PEX)
- Teflon tape
- Circuit breaker
- Electrical cables (typically 8-gauge wire)
- Mounting screws and brackets
Having all these tools and materials on hand will help you avoid unnecessary delays during the installation process.
Step 2: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply
Safety is always the top priority when dealing with electrical and plumbing systems. The first step in installing your electric tankless water heater is turning off the power to the area where you’ll be working. Use a voltage tester to make sure there’s no electricity running to the circuit you’ll be using.
Next, turn off the main water supply to prevent leaks or water damage during the installation. Drain the pipes by opening faucets and allowing any remaining water to flow out.
Step 3: Choose the Installation Location
Choosing the right location for your electric tankless water heater is important for its performance and safety. The unit should be installed in a well-ventilated area that’s easily accessible for future maintenance. It’s also important to consider the proximity of the water heater to the main electrical panel and water supply lines to minimize installation complexity.
Most electric tankless water heaters are made to be wall-mounted, so make sure the area can support the unit. Additionally, confirm that there is adequate space around the heater for proper airflow and to avoid overheating.
Step 4: Install the Mounting Bracket
Once you’ve selected the installation location, the next step is to install the mounting bracket for the electric tankless water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper installation.
- Mark the wall where the brackets will be installed. Make sure they are level.
- Drill pilot holes for the screws, then secure the brackets to the wall using heavy-duty screws. The mounting brackets should be strong enough to hold the weight of the heater.
- Carefully place the water heater on the brackets and secure it tightly.
Step 5: Install Plumbing Connections
With the water heater securely mounted, the next step is to connect the water supply lines. Electric tankless water heaters typically require both a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet.
- Connect the cold water supply line to the inlet on the water heater. Use Teflon tape on the threads to guarantee a watertight seal.
- Connect the hot water line to the outlet on the heater, again using Teflon tape to prevent leaks.
- Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of piping to use. Copper or PEX piping is commonly used for these installations.
Make sure the connections are tight and there are no leaks before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Electrical Wiring
One of the most important steps in the installation process is wiring the electric tankless water heater. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it’s highly recommended that you hire a licensed electrician to complete this step.
If you’re handling the wiring yourself, follow these steps:
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker to avoid any risk of electrocution.
- Run the appropriate wiring from the circuit breaker to the water heater. Most electric tankless units require 240 volts and a dedicated breaker.
- Connect the wires to the water heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves connecting the ground, neutral, and hot wires.
- Install the circuit breaker in your electrical panel. The breaker size should be appropriate for the amperage requirements of your water heater (check the manual for specifics).
- Double-check connections to make sure everything is wired correctly and securely.
Step 7: Test the System
Once all connections are in place, it’s time to test your newly installed electric tankless water heater.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks around the plumbing connections.
- Restore power to the water heater by flipping the circuit breaker back on.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set the water temperature and activate the unit. Many models have digital controls that allow you to fine-tune the temperature.
Run water through the system to make sure it’s heating correctly and there are no leaks or wiring issues. If everything checks out, your electric tankless water heater is ready to use!
Common Challenges During Installation
Even with careful preparation, some challenges can arise during the installation process. Here are a few common issues and how to address them:
Electrical Capacity
Electric tankless water heaters typically require a higher electrical capacity than traditional tank heaters. If your home’s electrical system isn’t equipped to handle the increased load, you may need to upgrade your circuit breaker panel. This can be a costly and complex process. Hence, it’s worth consulting with a professional electrician before proceeding.
Water Pressure
Tankless water heaters work best with consistent water pressure. If your home has low water pressure, the performance of the heater may suffer. Installing a pressure booster pump can help resolve this issue.
Cold Climates
If you live in a cold climate, the incoming water temperature may be lower, making it more difficult for the electric tankless heater to keep up with demand. In these cases, consider installing a unit with a higher capacity or a backup system to ensure you always have enough hot water.
Professional Installation: When to Call in the Experts
While some homeowners may feel comfortable installing an electric tankless water heater themselves, it’s important to know when to call in the experts. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, especially the electrical wiring, hiring a licensed electrician or professional installer is the best way to guarantee your safety and the proper functioning of the unit.
At Water Heaters Now, we offer expert installation services to make sure your electric tankless water heater is set up correctly and efficiently. Our team has years of experience and understands the challenges of installing tankless units, from electrical wiring to plumbing connections. We’ll take care of the entire process, saving you time and making sure your new water heater performs at its best.
Maintenance Tips for Your Electric Tankless Water Heater
To keep your electric tankless water heater running smoothly, regular maintenance is key. Here are a few tips to extend the life of your system and maintain peak performance:
- Flush the system annually to remove any mineral buildup that can reduce efficiency.
- Check the filter periodically and clean or replace it as needed.
- Inspect electrical connections to ensure everything remains secure and functioning correctly.
- Monitor water pressure to avoid strain on the unit.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your water heater running efficiently for years to come.
Installing an electric tankless water heater can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right tools, preparation, and attention to detail, it’s a project many homeowners can handle themselves. From choosing the best location to handling electrical wiring and plumbing connections, following the steps outlined in this guide will help establish a successful installation. However, if you’re unsure about any part of the process or want to avoid potential complications, it’s always a good idea to call in a professional.
At Water Heaters Now, we’re here to help with all your electric tankless water heater needs, from installation to maintenance. Our team of technicians is ready to provide fast, reliable service so you can enjoy endless hot water without the hassle. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you find the perfect electric tankless water heater for your home.
