Installation Process
Installation Process | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Newcomb
Choosing HEP for your tankless water heater install in Newcomb means enjoying an effortless upgrade from start to finish. Our licensed plumbers arrive on‐schedule, protect your home with drop cloths and shoe covers, then remove the old tank without a trace. We expertly size the new unit, reroute gas or electric lines as needed, and integrate corrosion-resistant plumbing connections to guarantee leak-free performance. Before we leave, every system is pressure-tested, venting is inspected with infrared cameras, and you’re given a quick tutorial on the digital controls—so you can start enjoying endless hot water and lower utility bills the very same day.
Behind the scenes, HEP’s process is powered by in-house permitting, direct relationships with leading manufacturers, and a 100 % satisfaction pledge. Our team registers your warranty, schedules your first maintenance reminder, and remains on call 24/7 for any questions. It’s the local, neighborly service Newcomb homeowners trust, backed by the craftsmanship that’s made HEP an industry leader for decades.
FAQs
How long does a tankless water-heater installation usually take in Newcomb?
For a typical family home in Newcomb, a straight replacement of an existing tank system with a new gas or electric tankless unit takes 4–6 hours once the technician is on site. This includes isolating and draining the old tank, upgrading the gas or electrical supply lines, mounting the new heater, making all water, gas or power connections, flushing the system, and commissioning it. If we must relocate the heater, run new venting through brickwork, or upgrade the switchboard, allow a full day. We give you a firm time window after the pre-site assessment.
What size and fuel type of tankless water heater is right for my household?
Sizing is based on the maximum simultaneous hot-water demand rather than storage volume. We calculate the required flow rate (litres per minute) by adding the demand of each fixture likely to run at once, then compare that to unit output at Newcomb’s winter inlet-water temperature (about 12 °C). Most three-bathroom family homes need a 24–32 L/min gas unit; smaller apartments may only need 15 L/min. If natural gas is available, a gas condensing model is normally most economical; otherwise we recommend a 3-phase electric or heat-pump hybrid. Our technician completes the sizing calculation during the on-site quote so you get a system that never runs out of hot water.
Do I need permits or inspections for a tankless installation in Newcomb?
Yes. Under Victorian plumbing regulations, any new gas appliance over 20 MJ/h or electrical water heater over 4800 W requires a Compliance Certificate from a licensed plumber. Gas models also need a Gasfitting Notice lodged with Energy Safe Victoria. We handle all paperwork for you, schedule the required inspection if the job triggers it, and supply your Compliance Certificate within five business days of completion, protecting your warranty and insurance cover.
How much does a tankless water heater installation cost and what factors affect the price?
In Newcomb, a like-for-like swap of a gas storage tank to a mid-range condensing tankless unit starts at about $2,400 fully installed after current Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates. The price rises if we need to: (1) resize or extend the gas line; (2) install new flue or concentric venting through the roof/wall; (3) upgrade the switchboard for electric models; (4) move the heater to comply with clearance codes; or (5) add a tempering valve for bathrooms without one. We provide a fixed written quote so there are no surprises.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require and can you look after it for me?
Tankless units are low-maintenance, but to keep the heat exchanger efficient and the warranty valid we recommend an annual service that includes: descaling with food-grade vinegar or citric solution (every 12 months in Newcomb’s moderately hard water), cleaning the inlet filter, testing gas-pressure or current draw, inspecting venting, and checking error codes. We offer a $165 annual service plan that covers all labour, descaler solution, and a 10 % discount on any parts found necessary. We remind you when the service is due so you don’t have to remember.
Will switching to a tankless system really save money and energy?
Yes—provided the unit is sized and installed correctly. Traditional storage heaters keep 135–170 L of water hot 24/7, leading to standby losses. A modern condensing gas tankless in Newcomb operates at 92–96 % thermal efficiency and only fires when you open a tap. Households that convert from a 3-star gas storage tank typically see gas-use reductions of 30–40 %, or roughly $180–$260 per year at current tariffs. Electric tankless models paired with solar PV can cut water-heating costs by up to 70 %. Because the units last 20+ years versus 8–12 for tanks, the lifecycle savings are even greater.