Key takeaways
- A tankless water heater is a unit that produces hot water on demand and directly from the source.
- The total cost of a tankless water heater is between $1,500 to $3,300 for supply and installation.
- The price of your tankless water heater will depend on its system size, fuel type, and installation process.
Full Answer
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater?
When you turn on the hot water part of the faucet in your home, the tankless water heater will start to heat the water you need. There's no reservoir that already has hot water in it, which is thought to be better for environmental reasons. Installing a tankless water heater will cost between $1,200 to $5,000 .
Are tankless water heaters worth the price?
Yes, tankless water heaters are worth the investment and can save you energy and money compared to using water heaters with tanks. In rare cases, like the example about using an electric tankless heater during the peak-tariff hours, the tankless water heaters might not be saving you money, but generally speaking, tankless water heaters do save you money whether they are gas or electric ones.
Should I buy a tankless water heater?
you should start saving up for a replacement. The typical lifespan of a tank water heater is eight to 12 years, while a tankless heater usually lasts 15 to 18 years. When it starts to be unreliable or finicky, it's likely on its last leg. How will you know ...
Do tankless water heaters really save energy?
Unlike traditional tank-style water heaters, which continuously use energy to maintain a hot water supply, tankless water heaters only expend energy when you turn on a hot water tap or when you’re using appliances. This on-demand style of operation results in their most significant advantage; energy and cost savings.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless water heater?
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
How much does it cost to replace a gas water heater vent?
How long do tankless gas tanks last?
How much does a water heater permit cost?
What is the efficiency of a non-condensing tankless?
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About this website
Tankless Water Heater Cost Calculator (2022) ~ With Installation Prices
Tankless water heaters cost $950 – $3,800 for gas types, while electric on-demand water heaters cost $850 – $2,300.Professional installation will cost $1,200 – $3,200. depending on the fuel source and job complexity.. As an experienced licensed home improvement contractor, I know first hand what it should cost for various levels — from Basic, Better, and of course the best.
Cost to Install a Tankless Electric Water Heater - Homewyse
Unit Costs: How Pros Price. Unlike other websites that publish pricing from unrelated jobs in the past, Homewyse creates up-to-date estimates from current Unit Costs.The Unit Cost method delivers high accuracy by using location, details and options for the unique requirements of each job. Contracting, trade, design and maintenance businesses rely on the Unit Cost method for transparency ...
The 8 Best Tankless Water Heaters of 2022 for Every Home
This 7 GPM electric water heater model from Rheem our top electric pick for its performance and easy operation. It’s usually most simple (and cost-effective) to choose an electric tankless water heater, when it comes time to replace your conventional electric water heater, and this option from Rheem is a reliable choice that will last for years in your home.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Converting or replacing a tank water heater with a tankless system costs $800 to $3,500 on average. Tankless prices depend on the brand, fuel source, and flow rate.
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless water heater?
Propane tankless water heater installation costs $700 to $4,600 total on average. Propane water heaters provide up to 11 GPM of hot water and connect to an on-site fuel tank. Installing a propane tank costs $1,200 to $2,400 for a 500-gallon tank.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heater installation takes 3 to 10 hours for a new install or 2 to 4 hours to replace an existing tankless unit. Tankless water heaters are not as easy to install as storage tank models because they require upgraded gas supply lines, new venting, and a new electrical outlet.
How much does it cost to replace a gas water heater vent?
Replacing the vent for gas exhaust costs $100 to $600. The vent system from a tank water heater cannot be reused for a tankless water heater and requires replacing. Electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour to install a new outlet or upgrade a circuit.
How long do tankless gas tanks last?
Tankless systems last 10 to 20 years (5 to 10 years longer than storage tank units). Tankless units have a 5 to 15-year warranty. Saves $40 to $200 yearly on energy bills compared to tank models. Most natural gas and propane units are eligible for a $300 federal tax credit and additional rebates.
How much does a water heater permit cost?
A water heater permit costs $25 to $250 and is required by most cities. An inspector verifies the water heater was installed correctly and won't create a hazard. Most plumbers pull the permit and include permit fees in their estimate.
What is the efficiency of a non-condensing tankless?
Non-condensing tankless models use a single heat exchanger, vent the heated exhaust outdoors, and have energy efficiency rates of 80%.
How much does it cost to install a tankless water heater?
The amount of money to install a tankless water heater can vary. You can expect to pay anywhere from $800 – $3500 on average, but the installation of your next water heater will not cost as much.
How Much Do Tankless Water Heaters Cost to Run Each Month?
You have two options when it comes to tankless water heater fuel sources: electric and gas. We will cover how much you can expect to pay each month for both types to determine how much the initial cost will save you over time.
What Is the “True” Tankless Water Heater Cost to Consider?
When looking into tankless water heaters, you need to appraise the entire cost of switching from a conventional storage tank water heater to a tankless system, including the cost of your water heater, the installation, and your monthly savings.
How much energy does a tankless water heater use?
In comparison, the average amount of energy used for a tankless electric water heater in a two-person unit comes to 97.44 therms per year. The more efficient the unit, the less energy you will use.
What sets tankless water heaters apart from other water heaters?
One thing that sets certain tankless water heaters apart from others is the smart technology capabilities on some devices. Smart devices allow you to control the water heater from an app on your smartphone.
How long do tankless water heaters last?
This means you will save money since you won’t have to pay for a new water heater. Most tankless water heaters last at least 20 years, while most storage tank water heaters last 10 to 15 years.
What is the UEF rating on a tankless water heater?
Every tankless water heater runs at a specific efficiency rating known as the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). You can find the UEF clearly labeled on each water heater. The higher the UEF, the higher the efficiency.
How much heat does a tankless water heater use?
Condensing tankless water heaters can use up to 96 percent of the fuel’s heat and reuse it. This is because the second heat exchanger traps the exhaust heat before it’s expelled out of the vent. Condensing tankless heaters are about 25 percent more expensive than their non-condensing counterparts. Furthermore, they create an acidic condensate that will need to be offset and neutralized. If the heater doesn’t come with a built-in neutralizer, a water heater professional will need to install one.
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless water heater?
Natural gas or propane tankless water heaters cost between $1,000 and $1,500 to install. Natural gas water heaters are a popular choice and work well in cold climates. These heaters rely on a utility supply line, and the average cost to run a natural gas heater is approximately $200 per year. Tankless gas water heaters can supply about 15 to 20 GPM—more than electric heaters. Gas heaters are ideal for larger households, those who live in colder climates, and those with above-average use of hot water.
What Size Tankless Water Heater Do I Need?
Once you decide on the type of tankless water heater, the next important decision is the size of the water heater. If the water heater is too large, you’ll pay for a unit that you won’t get full use from. If it’s too small, you risk not having hot water when you need it. A single-point system will be required at every faucet and appliance that uses hot water. A whole-house system will need to have enough BTUs to quickly heat the water as you need it. To know what size tankless water heater you need, a professional will look into three items to determine the size:
What is the difference between a tankless water heater and a non-condensing water heater?
Tankless water heaters are available in condensing and non-condensing varieties. Condensing tankless units have a second heat exchanger that traps the extra heat before it exits to the venting system and uses it to heat the water. This increases the energy efficiency of the water heater to 90 percent or more. Non-condensing tankless water heaters utilize a single heat exchanger and vent the exhaust heat to the outside. These types of water heaters have an energy efficiency rate of 80 percent.
How much does a single point water heater cost?
These are easy for a professional to install and cost between $100 to $300 each. They are efficient since the water has a short distance to travel, so less water is wasted. Single-point systems are standard in homes with multiple bathrooms and appliances. These water heater systems can be installed inside or outside the house and no more than 50 feet away from an adjoining power source using an electric heater. This requires a separate water heater for each water source. A single-point unit produces from 0.5 to 2 gallons of hot water per minute.
How long does a gas water heater last?
Gas-powered tankless water heaters can last for 20 years or more. They last longer and require less maintenance than tank-style water heaters since they do not store water in a tank at risk of corrosion and leaks.
What to do if your water heater is difficult to access?
If the existing water heater is difficult to access, prepare to pay more for its removal and to install a new one. The prices will depend on your exact home and situation.
How much hot water does a tankless water heater provide?
However, a tankless water heater's output limits the flow rate. Typically, tankless water heaters provide hot water at a rate of 2–5 gallons (7.6–15.2 liters) per minute.
How long does a tankless water heater last?
Most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years. They also have easily replaceable parts that extend their life by many more years. In contrast, storage water heaters last 10–15 years. Tankless water heaters can avoid the standby heat losses associated with storage water heaters. However, although gas-fired tankless water ...
What is demand type water heater?
Tankless or Demand-Type Water Heaters. Diagram of a tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water only as it is needed. They don't produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save you money. Here you'll find basic information about ...
How much more energy efficient is a demand water heater?
Advantages and Disadvantages. For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. They can be 8%–14% more energy efficient for homes that use a lot of hot water -- around 86 gallons per day. You can achieve even greater energy savings of ...
What are the factors that affect the installation of a demand water heater?
Proper installation depends on many factors. These factors include fuel type, climate, local building code requirements, and safety issues, especially concerning the combustion of gas-fired water heaters.
Can a tankless water heater be used as a storage water heater?
Tankless water heaters can avoid the standby heat losses associated with storage water heaters. However, although gas-fired tankless water heaters tend to have higher flow rates than electric ones, they can waste energy if they have a constantly burning pilot light. This can sometimes offset the elimination of standby energy losses ...
Can you turn off the pilot light on a tankless water heater?
Ask the manufacturer how much gas the pilot light uses for the model you're considering. If you purchase a model that uses a standing pilot light, you can always turn it off when it's not in use to save energy.
How much does a tankless water heater cost?
Converting or replacing a tank water heater with a tankless system costs $800 to $3,500 on average. Tankless prices depend on the brand, fuel source, and flow rate.
How much does it cost to install a propane tankless water heater?
Propane tankless water heater installation costs $700 to $4,600 total on average. Propane water heaters provide up to 11 GPM of hot water and connect to an on-site fuel tank. Installing a propane tank costs $1,200 to $2,400 for a 500-gallon tank.
How long does it take to install a tankless water heater?
Tankless water heater installation takes 3 to 10 hours for a new install or 2 to 4 hours to replace an existing tankless unit. Tankless water heaters are not as easy to install as storage tank models because they require upgraded gas supply lines, new venting, and a new electrical outlet.
How much does it cost to replace a gas water heater vent?
Replacing the vent for gas exhaust costs $100 to $600. The vent system from a tank water heater cannot be reused for a tankless water heater and requires replacing. Electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour to install a new outlet or upgrade a circuit.
How long do tankless gas tanks last?
Tankless systems last 10 to 20 years (5 to 10 years longer than storage tank units). Tankless units have a 5 to 15-year warranty. Saves $40 to $200 yearly on energy bills compared to tank models. Most natural gas and propane units are eligible for a $300 federal tax credit and additional rebates.
How much does a water heater permit cost?
A water heater permit costs $25 to $250 and is required by most cities. An inspector verifies the water heater was installed correctly and won't create a hazard. Most plumbers pull the permit and include permit fees in their estimate.
What is the efficiency of a non-condensing tankless?
Non-condensing tankless models use a single heat exchanger, vent the heated exhaust outdoors, and have energy efficiency rates of 80%.
Cost
Safety
- To make sure a building stays up to code for the safety of the inhabitants, all renovations, retrofits to the infrastructure, and structural improvements will have to get a permit to ensure compliance with federal and local building, construction, and zoning codes. Expect to pay somewhere in the region of $200 to $500 for the permits.
Advantages
- For some homeowners with a tank water heater/boiler already installed, it is far more efficient to install a few tankless water heaters in bathrooms as the family grows in size and the demand for simultaneous hot water increases. The power vent systems only need an exhaust vent, and the unit has to be installed in a location that provides the right amount of air required for combustio…
Models
- Tankless gas models are available in a wide range of styles and size and produce output from 140,000 BTUs to 380,000 BTUs.
Performance
- In addition to not heating water unnecessarily while you are not home, tankless water heaters are 24%-34% more energy efficient and dont lose any heat, which traditional tank water heaters do. That reflects savings close to the cost of the system throughout 10 years of use. The average GPM capacity of most residential tankless water heaters is between 25 gallons per minute, with …
Marketing
- Traditional tank water heaters are sold clearly marked with their capacity in gallons on a label on the tank. Tankless water heaters are different in their rating systemthey are sold according to the demand they can meet, the flow rate, and are measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
Example
- Calculate the maximum simultaneous demand for hot water in the house, and youll know which system(s) should be installed and where it should be located. Because of the demands of larger households, it might make sense to install one or more additional tankless units. A house in a warmer climate will require a tankless system with a lower gallons-per-minute rating than a hom…
Terminology
- The difference between the temperature of the water from the local supply coming into the home and the temperature of the water that the water heater produces is called rise.
Benefits
- The benefits of a tankless water heater system far outweigh those of a stored-water tank heater. The following is a list of the aspects you can look forward to:
Prevention
- To prevent serious health issues from interior air contamination, gas-powered tankless water heaters require special venting to remove the hot carbon monoxide exhaust fumes and expel them to the outside air.
Operation
- The direct vent system draws in air from outside, and instead of just one vent, it has a second one for intake in addition to the exhaust vent. One of the upsides to the direct vent system is that because of the second vent, these systems can be installed in tighter spaces. Typically, the systems are set up to vent through the roof or exterior walls, using fans to assist in the process. …
Climate
- For most residential water heaters, the maximum temperature most homeowners will set their heaters to is 120 degrees, because beyond that can cause scalding.