Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Cowan
Looking to cut utility costs and free up space in your Cowan home? HEP’s energy-efficiency plumbing experts make it simple. Our licensed technicians remove bulky, outdated tanks and replace them with sleek, on-demand technology that heats water only when you need it, delivering endless hot showers while slashing standby energy loss. We arrive on time, respect your property, and handle every detail—from evaluating gas and electric hookups to hauling away your old unit—so you can start enjoying lower bills and a smaller carbon footprint the same day.
Backed by upfront pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, HEP turns an ordinary upgrade into a worry-free experience. Homeowners across Franklin County trust us for safe, code-compliant work that’s built to last, and our 24/7 emergency support ensures you’re never left in the cold after your tankless water heater install.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of switching to a tankless water heater for my Cowan home?
Tankless (on-demand) water heaters deliver hot water exactly when it’s needed, so you never run out during showers or laundry cycles. Because they don’t store 40–80 gallons of heated water around the clock, they eliminate standby heat loss and can cut water-heating energy use by 25–40 percent, lowering monthly utility bills. They also free up floor space, last 18–20 years (about twice as long as a tank), produce fewer greenhouse-gas emissions, and may qualify for local utility rebates and federal tax credits.
How is a tankless unit more energy-efficient than a traditional storage tank heater?
Standard tanks keep water hot 24/7, repeatedly firing the burner or elements even when no one is using hot water—this is standby loss. A tankless model uses powerful burners or electric elements that ignite only when a hot-water tap opens. Advanced flow sensors, modulating burners, and sealed combustion venting further boost efficiency, delivering Energy Factor ratings as high as 0.96–0.98. In the Cowan climate, that translates to roughly 10–15 percent less natural-gas or electricity consumption for the average household compared with a new conventional tank, and up to 40 percent savings if you’re replacing an older, less-insulated tank.
Can a tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my family?
Yes—provided it is correctly sized. We calculate the peak flow rate your household needs (for example, two showers and a washing machine running simultaneously may require 6–7 gallons per minute). We then match you with a unit capable of that output at Cowan’s typical incoming groundwater temperature (about 55 °F in winter). If your demand is especially high, we can install multiple units in parallel or a dedicated point-of-use heater for remote bathrooms. With proper sizing you will enjoy continuous hot water without temperature dips.
What does installation cost and how long until I recoup the investment?
For most Cowan residences, the installed price runs $2,500–$4,500, depending on fuel type, required venting, and whether we need to up-size the gas line or add a 240-V circuit. Annual energy savings average $100–$200 compared with a new tank, or more if you were running an aging, inefficient heater. After factoring in a potential 30 percent federal tax credit (up to $600) and any TVA or South Cowan Utility District incentives, payback typically falls in the 6–10-year range—well within the unit’s 18–20-year life span.
Are there local permits, codes, or rebates I should know about?
Yes. Franklin County requires a plumbing and, for gas units, mechanical permit; we pull and close these on your behalf. Venting must comply with the 2021 IRC/IFGC, and electric models may need a dedicated breaker per NEC 210. TVA’s EnergyRight program often offers $50–$200 rebates for ENERGY STAR® tankless heaters, and the federal Inflation Reduction Act currently provides a 30 percent tax credit (max $600) on qualifying units. We’ll handle all paperwork so you capture every available incentive.
How long does the installation take and what upgrades might be necessary?
Most projects are completed in one day: 4–6 hours for a straightforward replacement, 6–8 hours if we’re rerouting venting or relocating the unit. Gas models may need a larger ¾-inch supply line and category III/IV stainless venting; electric models often require a new 40–60-amp double-pole breaker and 8-gauge wiring. We perform a free pre-install inspection to flag any upgrades, give you a firm quote, and schedule at your convenience. Hot-water downtime is typically under half a day.