Tankless water heaters are an energy-efficient and convenient solution for modern homes. They provide on-demand hot water while taking up less space than traditional storage tank models. However, improper installation can lead to costly repairs, inefficiency, and even safety hazards.
Understanding the most common mistakes and knowing how our professional plumbing services at Lords of Plumbing ensure a smooth installation can save you time, money, and frustration.
Here are some common tankless water heater installation mistakes to avoid.
Choosing the Wrong Size Unit
Tankless water heaters come in different sizes, and selecting the wrong one can cause problems. If the unit is too small, it won’t meet your household’s hot water demand, leading to cold showers and frustration. An oversized unit, on the other hand, wastes energy and increases costs unnecessarily. Determining the right size requires careful calculations based on the number of fixtures in your home and your peak hot water usage. Our professional plumbing service assesses your needs and recommends the best option for efficiency and comfort.
Ignoring Proper Ventilation Requirements
Gas-powered tankless water heaters generate exhaust gases that need proper ventilation. One of the most dangerous water heater installation mistakes is failing to install adequate venting, which can lead to carbon monoxide buildup inside the home. Improper venting can also cause overheating, reduced efficiency, and early system failure. Our experts ensure that vents are correctly sized and positioned to maintain safe airflow and prevent hazardous conditions.
Incorrect Gas Line Sizing
Tankless water heaters require more gas flow than traditional storage water heaters. Many DIY installers assume that their existing gas line will work, but this often leads to problems. If the gas line is too small, the unit won’t receive enough fuel, resulting in poor performance or complete failure. Our licensed plumbers properly size and install gas lines to ensure a steady supply and optimal heater operation.
Skipping Water Quality Considerations
Hard water can cause mineral buildup inside a tankless water heater, reducing efficiency and shortening its lifespan. Many homeowners overlook this factor and install a water heater without addressing water hardness. Over time, limescale buildup can clog pipes, slow down heating, and require costly repairs. Our professional plumbers test the water quality and, if necessary, install a water softener or a descaling system to protect your investment.
Improper Electrical Setup
For electric tankless water heaters, proper wiring is essential. Many water heater installations fail because the wiring isn’t up to code or the electrical panel can’t handle the additional load. An inadequate setup can trip breakers, damage the unit, or even create fire hazards. Our qualified plumbers have the expertise to ensure that the system meets all power requirements and safety standards.
Poor Placement and Mounting
Your tankless water heater installation placement significantly impacts its efficiency and longevity. Placing the unit too far from major water fixtures causes delays in hot water delivery, increasing water waste. Mounting it in an area without adequate clearance can lead to overheating and maintenance difficulties. Our professional plumbers consider accessibility, efficiency, and local building codes to position the heater for optimal performance.
Considering a tankless water heater for your Los Angeles home? It’s a smart upgrade for energy efficiency and endless hot water. However, proper water heater installation is paramount to reaping these benefits. Lords of Plumbing brings years of dedicated experience to every tankless water heater installation and replacement project.
We address ventilation requirements and prioritize water quality, advising on solutions to mitigate the effects of hard water. We go beyond mere installation, providing you with detailed guidance on maintenance and operation, empowering you to maximize your investment.