Improved Energy Efficiency
Improved Energy Efficiency | Tankless Water Heater Install | Plumbing | Pelham
Imagine endless hot water that arrives the moment you turn the tap, while your utility bills quietly shrink month after month. HEP’s licensed local pros bring that vision to life for Pelham homeowners through precision tankless water heater install services, swapping out bulky, standby-wasting tanks for sleek, on-demand technology that heats only what you use. The result is up to 40% greater energy efficiency, more space in your mechanical room, and a system designed to last twice as long as traditional heaters.
From the first phone call to the final temperature check, we handle every step—sizing, gas or electric hookups, venting, and code compliance—so you can enjoy reliable hot water without the hassle. Join the growing number of neighbors who have upgraded with HEP and feel the comfort of sustainable savings flowing through every faucet.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater save energy compared to a traditional tank unit?
Unlike storage heaters that keep 40–50 gallons of water hot 24/7, a tankless model heats water only when you open a tap. This on-demand process eliminates standby losses, so efficiency ratings jump from 60–65 % for many older tanks to 90 % or more for modern condensing tankless units. In an average Pelham household, that translates to 25–40 % lower water-heating energy use and utility-bill savings of $70–$120 per year.
What size tankless water heater do I need for my Pelham home?
Sizing is based on two factors: (1) the maximum hot-water flow you’ll need at one time and (2) Pelham’s winter groundwater temperature (about 48 °F), which determines how much the heater must raise the water temperature. A typical three-bathroom home with simultaneous shower and appliance use requires 7–9 gallons per minute (GPM) at a 70 °F rise, so we would recommend a 180,000 BTU (or roughly 8 GPM) gas-fired unit. Smaller households or homes with low-flow fixtures may get by with a 120,000–150,000 BTU model. Our technicians calculate your exact demand during the in-home consultation.
Are there any rebates or incentives available in Pelham for installing a high-efficiency tankless water heater?
Yes. Alabama Power and Spire Gas (for Pelham customers) periodically offer $200–$400 rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified gas tankless units. Federal taxpayers can also claim a 30 % credit—up to $600—under the Inflation Reduction Act for “qualified heat-pump or high-efficiency water heaters.” We’ll file the paperwork for utility rebates, supply the IRS Form 5695 information, and inform you of any city-specific incentives when we quote the job.
How long does it take to install a tankless system, and will my water service be interrupted?
Most retrofits in existing homes are completed in one working day (6–8 hours). We start by shutting off water and energy supplies, disconnecting the old tank, upgrading gas or electrical lines if necessary, and mounting the new unit. Water service is normally off for 2–4 hours; we coordinate with you to minimize inconvenience. New-construction installs are even faster because rough-in plumbing is already in place.
What maintenance does a tankless water heater require?
To maintain peak efficiency and preserve your warranty, we recommend an annual service visit that includes: (1) descaling the heat exchanger with a vinegar or citric-acid solution—especially important in Pelham’s moderately hard water (7–9 grains); (2) cleaning the inlet filter; (3) checking burner combustion and venting; and (4) updating firmware on smart models. With routine care, a tankless unit can last 20+ years, twice the lifespan of most storage tanks.
Can a tankless unit be retrofitted into my existing plumbing configuration, and will it meet local codes?
In nearly every case, yes. We assess gas line capacity (for natural gas units), available amperage (for electric models), venting routes, and condensate drainage. If upgrades are needed—e.g., a ¾-inch gas manifold or 120-volt outlet—we complete them as part of the project. All work is permitted through the City of Pelham Building Services Department and inspected for compliance with the 2021 International Plumbing Code and Alabama amendments, so you’ll have full peace of mind and documentation.