Improved Energy Efficiency
Improved Energy Efficiency | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Madisonville
Imagine stepping into a shower that never runs cold, even while your energy bills keep shrinking. That’s the everyday luxury Madisonville homeowners enjoy after a professional tankless water heater install by HEP. Our compact, on-demand systems heat water only when you need it, eliminating standby losses and reclaiming precious space in your utility closet. The result is up to 40% greater efficiency, a longer equipment lifespan, and the peace of mind that comes from reliable, continuous hot water for back-to-back showers, dishwashers, and laundry loads.
HEP’s certified plumbers match you with the right-sized unit, handle precise gas or electric conversions, and haul away the old tank—often in just one visit. We back every installation with transparent pricing, robust warranties, and 24/7 support from technicians who live and work right here in Madisonville. Choose the local team that turns an everyday necessity into a money-saving upgrade and feel the difference every time you open the tap.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater improve energy efficiency compared with a traditional storage tank?
Conventional tanks keep 40–80 gallons of water hot 24/7, which wastes energy through standby heat loss. A tankless unit fires its burner or heating element only when you open a hot-water tap, eliminating that constant reheating cycle. ENERGY STAR® studies show tankless models are 24–34 % more efficient for homes that use up to 41 gallons of hot water per day, and still 8–14 % more efficient for heavier-use households. Over the life of the appliance you can save hundreds of therms or kilowatt-hours, cutting both utility bills and carbon footprint.
Will a tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my Madisonville home?
Yes—if it’s sized correctly. A tankless unit is rated by “gallons per minute” (GPM). Our installers calculate your home’s peak demand (e.g., shower + dishwasher running at once) and local groundwater temperature to match you with a unit that delivers the required GPM without a temperature drop. Larger homes or simultaneous heavy users can be served by high-capacity condensing models or by cascading two units. A professional sizing consultation ensures you’ll have endless hot water even on Madisonville’s coldest mornings.
What does the installation process involve?
1. In-home assessment to choose the right model, location, and vent route. 2. Upgrading gas supply (often to ¾-inch) or installing a dedicated 240-V circuit for electric models. 3. Running stainless-steel or PVC venting and fresh-air intake to the exterior per Kentucky Mechanical Code. 4. Mounting the compact unit on the wall, connecting water, gas/electric, and condensate drain lines. 5. Pulling city permits and scheduling the final inspection with Madisonville Code Enforcement. Most projects take 4–6 hours with water shut-off limited to about 60 minutes, and we haul away the old tank at no extra charge.
How much will I save and what is the payback period?
Homeowners typically see a 25–40 % drop in water-heating costs—about $80–$120 per year for an average Madisonville household. Because a quality tankless heater lasts 20+ years (versus 8–12 for a storage tank) you avoid at least one full replacement cycle, adding $1,200–$1,800 in long-term savings. Depending on fuel prices and usage, most clients recover the initial investment in 5–8 years, after which the efficiency savings are pure return.
Are there rebates or tax incentives for installing an energy-efficient tankless unit in Madisonville?
Yes. The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit currently refunds 30 % of the installed cost—up to $600—for qualifying ENERGY STAR® gas tankless heaters through 2032. Electric units that meet ≥2.2 UEF may also qualify. Additionally, Kentucky Utilities, Pennyrile RECC, and Atmos Energy periodically offer $150–$300 rebates for high-efficiency water heaters. We provide the paperwork and serial numbers you need to claim incentives and will point you toward any active city or utility programs at the time of installation.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require?
Unlike tanks, there’s no anode rod to replace, but mineral buildup can still reduce efficiency. We recommend: • Annual descaling/flush with food-grade vinegar (more often if you have hard water over 10 grains). • Cleaning the cold-water in-line filter every 6–12 months. • Checking the vent and combustion air passages for obstruction. The service typically takes under an hour and keeps your manufacturer warranty intact. Sign up for our Madisonville Comfort Plan and we’ll handle it automatically while locking in a discounted rate.