Water Heater Technology
Water Heater Technology | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Lake City
Enjoy endless hot water, lower utility bills, and reclaimed closet space when you choose HEP’s master plumbers for your tankless water heater install in Lake City. Our crew swaps out bulky, energy-draining tanks for compact, on-demand units that heat water only when you turn on the tap—delivering steamy showers and spotless dishes without wasting a drop or a dollar.
From the first phone call to final cleanup, we handle every detail: precise sizing, code-compliant gas or electric hookups, digital calibration, and a rock-solid workmanship guarantee. Whether you’re finishing a new build on the lake or retrofitting a cozy bungalow downtown, our same-day service and transparent pricing make upgrading easy. Call HEP today and feel the difference the moment you twist the knob.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work compared with a traditional tank unit?
A tankless (on-demand) water heater contains high-efficiency gas burners or electric elements that activate only when you open a hot-water tap. Cold water flows through a heat exchanger, is heated instantaneously, and is delivered at the set temperature. Because there is no storage tank constantly reheating 40–50 gallons, standby heat loss is virtually eliminated. This can cut energy use by 24–34 % over standard storage heaters and gives you an endless supply of hot water as long as demand stays within the unit’s flow-rate capacity.
Is my Lake City home a good candidate for a tankless installation?
Most single-family homes, condos, and even smaller commercial spaces in Lake City can be retrofitted for tankless. We verify three factors during a free on-site assessment: 1. Gas or electric service size – A gas unit needs a ¾" gas line and up to 199,000 BTU/h; electric models may require 150–200 amp service. 2. Venting and combustion air – Gas units use sealed concentric venting that can run through an exterior wall or roof; no chimney is required. 3. Hot-water demand – We total the maximum gallons-per-minute (GPM) you might use (showers, washer, etc.) and match a unit (usually 6–11 GPM) to that load. If demand exceeds one unit, we can manifold two units or install point-of-use models.
What is the typical cost and payback period?
Installed pricing in Lake City runs $2,900–$4,500 for a whole-house gas tankless unit, depending on GPM rating, venting length, gas line upgrades, and local permit fees. Electric models average $1,800–$3,200 but may raise electric-service upgrade costs. Annual energy savings range from $80 to $150 for gas and $40 to $90 for electric. With those savings plus the longer 20-year life expectancy (double that of a tank), most homeowners see a 6- to 9-year payback. Check for current Florida natural-gas utility rebates ($200–$400) and federal tax credits (30 % up to $600) that can shorten payback further.
How long does installation take, and do I need permits?
A straight tank-for-tankless swap usually takes one full working day. Projects requiring new vent penetrations, gas-line upsizing, or electric-service changes may extend to two days. The City of Lake City Building Department requires a plumbing/mechanical permit and inspection for tankless installations. Our team pulls the permits, schedules inspections, and ensures the job meets the 2023 Florida Building Code and manufacturer guidelines. You will have hot water by the end of the first day even if final inspection occurs later.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater need?
While tankless units have longer service lives, they do need annual maintenance to protect the heat exchanger and keep efficiency high: • Descale/flush with white vinegar or manufacturer-approved solution to remove mineral buildup—essential with Lake City’s moderately hard water (7–9 grains per gallon). • Clean inlet water filter screen. • Inspect venting, gas pressure, and condensate drain. Our service plans start at $119 per year and include a complete diagnostic check plus priority repair scheduling. Skipping maintenance can void the 15-year heat-exchanger warranty, so we strongly recommend scheduling each spring or fall.
What kind of warranty and after-sales support do you provide?
We install premium brands such as Rinnai, Navien, and Rheem. Each comes with a 15-year heat-exchanger, 5-year parts, and 1-year labor warranty. As an authorized Lake City service provider, we handle warranty claims directly—no waiting on manufacturers. We also offer optional extended labor coverage up to 5 years and 24/7 emergency service. If you experience an error code or temperature issue, call our local office and a certified technician will respond within 24 hours, often the same day.