5 Things to Consider When Installing a Tankless Water Heater

Summertime is the perfect time to install a tankless water heater in your home or business. Tankless water heaters provide instant hot water, reduce your energy bills, and take up much less space than traditional tank-style units. But while installing a tankless water heater is relatively straightforward, there are a few things you should know before you dive in. In the 78759 area of Austin, Texas, Abacus residential and commercial plumbers are experts in tankless water heater installation—here's what they recommend you consider when making the switch.

1. Determining the Right Size

The biggest mistake people make when choosing the right tankless water heater for their home is not selecting the correct gallons-per-minute (GPM) for their needs. The GPM rating is the energy output of the water heater, and you can calculate it based on the size and usage of your household. Installing a unit with too few GPM will produce lukewarm water, while a model with too much will be more expensive than necessary. The Abacus team can help you decide on the right GPM for your needs.

2. Gas vs. Electric

Your next decision is whether to install a gas or electric tankless water heater. In general, gas-powered units offer more efficiency and hotter water—but electric heaters are cheaper and easier to install (no ventilation is needed). Consult a professional to help you decide which type of unit is best for your home.

3. Professional Installation

Installing a tankless water heater requires costly materials, and the task requires a high level of technical expertise. That's why it's always best to leave a job like this to the certified technicians at Abacus. They'll guarantee a perfect and safe installation.

4. Maintenance and Repair

No matter how good the installation of your tankless water heater is, it requires periodic maintenance and may need repair over its lifetime. Choose a company like Abacus that services all brands and models to ensure your maintenance and repair needs are met.

5. Efficiency Ratings and Warranty

When researching tankless water heater models, pay attention to the UEF and EF ratings. The UEF or Uniform Energy Factor indicates a water heater's overall energy efficiency, while the EF or Energy Factor indicates heat efficiency. Most modern tankless water heaters have very high efficiency ratings—so you'll save quite a bit on your energy bills with whatever unit you choose. Finally, make sure you understand the warranty terms of the unit you select. Many manufacturers offer warranties on tanks for up to twenty years—this will protect your investment in case your unit breaks down.

When considering tankless water heater installation in the 78759 area of Austin, Texas, trust the certified professionals at Abacus. They will help you select the correct GPM, determine whether gas or electric is best for your home, and make sure your install is done correctly. With their maintenance and repair services, you can rest assured that your tankless water heater will be running smoothly for years.

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