Expert Technicians
Expert Technicians | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Lake City
When Lake City homeowners decide it’s time for endless hot water, lower energy bills, and a space-saving upgrade, they call on HEP’s expert technicians for a seamless tankless water heater install. Our licensed pros arrive on time, assess your home’s unique demands, and recommend top-tier units that deliver hot water on demand—no more waiting, no more wasted energy. We handle everything from removing your old tank to precise gas, electric, and venting connections, all backed by meticulous workmanship and our famous “Happy HEP” customer care.
With decades of local experience, we know Lake City’s water chemistry, building codes, and climate challenges inside and out. That means every install is optimized for efficiency and longevity, and you get the peace of mind that comes with a rock-solid warranty and 24/7 support. Ready to reclaim your space, save money, and enjoy unlimited hot water? Schedule your appointment today and see why neighbors throughout Lake City trust HEP for plumbing done right the first time.
FAQs
What advantages does a tankless water heater offer over a conventional storage-tank model?
Tankless (on-demand) units heat water only when a hot-water tap is opened, eliminating standby heat loss and saving 20–40 % on annual energy costs. They also deliver an endless supply of hot water, free up 10–20 sq ft of floor space, have a life expectancy of 20+ years (about twice that of a tank), and feature easily replaceable parts. In Lake City’s humid climate, the sealed-combustion design of most tankless units also reduces the risk of corrosion and rust that commonly shortens the life of standard tanks.
How can I tell if a tankless water heater is the right choice for my Lake City home?
Our technicians perform a free on-site assessment that reviews your household’s peak hot-water demand, gas line capacity or electrical service, venting options, and local water chemistry. Generally, if your family uses 41 gallons of hot water or less per day, a single whole-house unit will meet your needs; heavier use may call for a larger or multiple units. Homes built after the mid-1990s typically have adequate ¾-inch gas lines or 200-amp electrical panels for tankless retrofits, but we can upgrade utilities if needed. We also factor in any rebate eligibility through the City of Lake City, Suwannee Valley Electric, and federal tax credits to confirm the payback period.
What size (flow rate) tankless water heater do I need, and how is it calculated?
Sizing is based on the required gallons per minute (GPM) at a specific temperature rise. First we add up the GPM of fixtures you may use simultaneously—for example, 2.5 GPM shower + 1.0 GPM sink = 3.5 GPM. Next we determine the temperature rise: Lake City’s incoming groundwater averages 72 °F, so to reach a 120 °F set point we need a 48 °F rise. A unit rated for at least 4 GPM at a 50 °F rise would cover that demand. Gas units from 150–199 kBtu, or electric units in the 24–36 kW range, typically fit Lake City homes. We’ll run exact calculations and recommend the most efficient model.
What does the installation process involve and how long will it take?
Most residential installations are completed in one day. Our crew begins by shutting off utilities and safely draining your existing tank. We then mount the compact tankless unit on an exterior or interior wall, run new Category III stainless venting or PVC/CPVC venting per manufacturer specs, and upsize gas or electrical service if necessary. Cold and hot water lines are re-routed with isolation valves for future maintenance, and a condensate drain is installed for high-efficiency units. Finally, we pull a permit with the City of Lake City Building Department and schedule the final inspection. You’ll have hot water again the same afternoon.
Does Lake City’s water quality affect the performance of a tankless water heater?
Lake City’s municipal water is moderately hard (8–11 grains per gallon). Mineral scale can build up inside the heat exchanger over time, reducing efficiency and triggering error codes. We recommend installing an inlet-side scale filter or a whole-house water softener if hardness exceeds 10 gpg. Our technicians can test your water during the estimate and provide filtration options. Annual descaling with food-grade vinegar or a citric-acid solution—service we offer at a flat rate—keeps the warranty intact and performance high.
What ongoing maintenance and warranty support do you provide?
Most manufacturers require a yearly inspection and descaling to maintain the 12-to-15-year heat-exchanger warranty. We offer a Maintenance Membership that includes the flush, combustion check, water-quality test, and software updates. Members receive priority scheduling and a 15 % discount on parts. Should a covered component fail, our Lake City team is factory-trained to handle warranty claims directly, sparing you the paperwork and downtime.