On-demand Hot Water
On-demand Hot Water | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Deer Lodge
Imagine stepping into a shower that never runs cold, even during brisk Deer Lodge winters. HEP’s master plumbers specialize in tankless water heater install services that swap bulky, inefficient tanks for sleek, high-performance units delivering endless hot water on demand. With precision workmanship and top-tier brands, we tailor each system to your home’s size, water usage, and energy goals—so you enjoy faster heat-up times, lower utility bills, and a lot more space in the mechanical room.
From the first call to the final temperature check, we handle every detail: sizing, permits, gas or electric hookups, and haul-away of your old tank. Our local technicians arrive when promised, protect your flooring, and back their work with rock-solid warranties and 24/7 emergency support. Ready to upgrade? Schedule your Deer Lodge tankless water heater install today and feel the HEP difference every time you turn on the tap.
FAQs
What advantages does a tankless water heater offer over a traditional storage-tank unit for homes in Deer Lodge?
Tankless (on-demand) heaters warm water only when a hot-water tap is opened, eliminating standby heat loss from a 40- or 50-gallon tank. This translates to energy savings of 25–40 % for an average Deer Lodge household, more consistent hot-water delivery (no running out during back-to-back showers), and a space-saving wall-mounted design. Because local winters are cold, an appropriately sized tankless unit will also include built-in freeze protection, ensuring reliable operation even when overnight temperatures fall below zero.
How long does a typical installation take, and will my water or gas be shut off all day?
A standard single-family installation normally takes 4–8 hours, depending on the complexity of venting and gas-line upgrades. Your water and gas are usually turned off for only 1–2 hours while we disconnect the old water heater and tie in the new tankless system. We schedule installations so that most Deer Lodge homeowners are back to full hot-water service the same afternoon. If unforeseen code upgrades are required, we will discuss them with you before work proceeds.
How do I know what size (GPM rating) tankless unit my household needs?
Sizing is based on peak simultaneous demand, not on tank capacity. We calculate the gallons per minute (GPM) required by adding the flow rates of fixtures you might use at the same time—e.g., two showers (2.0 GPM each) plus a dishwasher (1.5 GPM) equals 5.5 GPM. We then factor in Deer Lodge’s typical winter groundwater temperature of ~45 °F, which affects temperature-rise requirements. Most three-bedroom homes end up with a 7.5–9.0 GPM gas-fired unit; larger homes or those with spa tubs may need 11 GPM. Our technician performs this calculation during a free in-home assessment to ensure you never experience lukewarm water.
What kind of energy savings and payback period can I expect?
Because tankless heaters fire only when water is flowing, ENERGY STAR® models can cut natural-gas use by 25–40 % compared with a code-minimum storage tank. At Deer Lodge’s average natural-gas cost of roughly $1.25 per therm, that translates to annual savings of $90–$180 for a four-person household. Combined with a lifespan of 20+ years (versus 8–12 for a tank unit) and potential utility rebates of up to $350 from Northwestern Energy, most customers see a 5–7-year payback—even sooner if replacing an electric tank heater.
What ongoing maintenance does a tankless water heater require in our area?
To keep the heat exchanger free of mineral scale, manufacturers recommend a yearly flush with a mild vinegar solution—especially important in Deer Lodge, where water hardness averages 6–8 grains per gallon. We offer an affordable annual service plan that includes descaling, filter cleaning, and a full safety check. With regular maintenance, a quality stainless-steel heat exchanger can last 20–25 years, nearly double the life expectancy of a conventional tank.
Do I need permits, and will the new unit meet local building codes?
Yes. Deer Lodge and Powell County require a plumbing and, for gas units, a mechanical permit for water-heater replacement. Our licensed journeyman plumbers handle the permit application, schedule the inspection, and ensure all venting, gas-line sizing, condensate drains, and seismic brackets comply with the 2021 International Residential Code adopted by the city. You receive a copy of the signed inspection card for your records, protecting you during home resale or insurance claims.