Energy-efficient Water Heater
Energy-efficient Water Heater | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Charleston
Enjoy endless hot water, lower utility bills, and extra closet space when you trust HEP’s energy-efficient plumbing team for your tankless water heater install in Charleston. Our certified technicians size the system precisely for your household, mount sleek high-performance units that heat water only when you need it, and retrofit existing gas or electric lines with minimal disruption. From corrosion-resistant stainless-steel venting to smart-home-ready controls, every component is selected for coastal durability and long-term savings.
In a city where steamy summer showers and chilly ocean breezes both demand reliable hot water, HEP keeps you comfortable with on-call service, transparent pricing, and warranties that hold real weight. Schedule today and feel the instant difference of a water heater that’s as smart and sustainable as Charleston itself—backed by locals who care about your home as much as you do.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater save energy compared to a traditional tank unit?
Traditional tanks keep 40–80 gallons of water hot 24/7, so they constantly cycle on to offset standby heat loss. A tankless model only fires its gas burner or heating elements when you open a hot-water tap. Eliminating standby loss typically cuts water-heating energy use by 25–40 %, which translates to lower monthly utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint for Charleston homeowners.
Is a tankless water heater a good choice for Charleston’s climate and water conditions?
Yes. Charleston’s moderate groundwater temperature (about 68–72 °F) means a tankless unit doesn’t have to raise the water as many degrees as it would in colder regions, allowing it to operate at peak efficiency and deliver higher flow rates. Our local water supply is moderately hard, so we recommend installing a simple inlet filter and scheduling annual descaling—both of which we include in our service plans—to keep the heat exchanger clean and maintain warranty coverage.
What size tankless water heater does my household need?
Sizing is based on two factors: (1) the total flow rate of fixtures you want to run simultaneously, and (2) the temperature rise required (difference between incoming water and desired output). For example, two showers and a washing machine running together may require 6–7 gallons per minute (GPM) at a 60 °F rise. Most Charleston homes end up with a 180,000 BTU gas unit or a 27 kW electric model, but we perform a free on-site assessment to calculate your exact demand and match you with the right unit so you never run out of hot water.
How long does installation take and will it disrupt my household?
A straightforward replacement of a gas tank with a gas tankless unit usually takes 4–6 hours. Converting from electric tank to gas tankless can take 1–2 days because we may need to add a gas line and stainless-steel venting. Electric tankless conversions often finish in one day but can require electrical panel upgrades. We coordinate permits with the City of Charleston, protect work areas with drop cloths, and restore water service before we leave each day, keeping downtime to a minimum.
What routine maintenance does a tankless water heater require in the Charleston area?
Unlike tanks that can corrode and leak, tankless units mainly need annual flushing with a mild vinegar solution to remove mineral scale from the heat exchanger. Our technicians also clean the inlet screen, test gas or electric connections, and update firmware on smart models. The service takes about an hour and dramatically extends equipment life. Skipping maintenance can void the manufacturer’s warranty, so we offer affordable annual plans that include reminders and priority scheduling.
Are there incentives or financing options for installing an energy-efficient tankless water heater in Charleston?
Absolutely. Most ENERGY STAR®-qualified gas tankless units meet the criteria for the federal 25C tax credit—30 % of the project cost, up to $600. Dominion Energy South Carolina and Berkeley Electric often offer $300–$400 rebates for qualifying customers, and we handle the paperwork. We also partner with local lenders to provide 0 % interest financing for 12 months or low-APR plans up to 60 months, so you can start saving on utility bills right away without a large upfront expense.