Empower yourself: a comprehensive guide to installing your electric tankless water heater

Installing an electric tankless water heater yourself can be a cost-effective way to upgrade your home’s hot water system. Tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water on demand, eliminating long wait times and reducing energy consumption. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process seamlessly.

Gather Materials and Tools

Before you begin, ensure you have the following materials and tools:

• Electric tankless water heater
• Electrical wires and conduit
• Water supply lines
• Shut-off valves
• Teflon tape
• Pipe cutter
• Screwdriver
• Electrical tester
• Safety glasses

Electrical Considerations

Electric tankless water heaters require a dedicated electrical circuit with sufficient amperage to handle their power demands. Consult your water heater’s specifications to determine the required amperage and wire size. Ensure you have the necessary electrical knowledge or hire a licensed electrician for this step.

Water Supply Connection

1. Shut off the main water supply.
2. Cut the existing water supply lines to the old water heater.
3. Install shut-off valves on the cold and hot water supply lines.
4. Connect the cold water supply line to the inlet of the tankless water heater.
5. Connect the hot water supply line to the outlet of the tankless water heater.

Electrical Wiring

1. Turn off the power at the electrical panel.
2. Run the electrical wires from the electrical panel to the tankless water heater location.
3. Connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the water heater, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Install the conduit around the electrical wires for protection.

Mounting the Water Heater

1. Determine the appropriate mounting location for the tankless water heater, ensuring it is level and secure.
2. Install the mounting brackets on the wall.
3. Hang the tankless water heater on the brackets.

Pipe Connections

1. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the water supply lines and the water heater connections.
2. Tighten the water supply lines to the tankless water heater.
3. Check for leaks by turning on the main water supply and observing the connections.

Electrical Connection

1. Turn on the power at the electrical panel.
2. Use an electrical tester to verify that power is reaching the water heater.
3. Connect the electrical wires to the water heater‘s terminals.

Testing the Water Heater

1. Open a hot water faucet anywhere in the house.
2. The water heater should immediately heat up and deliver hot water.
3. Adjust the temperature setting as desired.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues during or after installation, consult the following troubleshooting tips:

• No hot water: Check if the power is turned on, the water supply is connected, and the temperature setting is correct.
• Leaking water: Tighten the pipe connections and check for damaged or loose fittings.
• Tripping circuit breaker: Reduce the water flow rate or increase the amperage of the electrical circuit.
• Error code: Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific error code troubleshooting.

Why Install an Electric Tankless Water Heater Yourself?

Installing an electric tankless water heater yourself can offer several benefits:

• Energy savings: Tankless water heaters heat water only when needed, reducing standby heat loss and energy consumption.
• Endless hot water: You’ll never run out of hot water, even during peak usage times.
• Compact size: Tankless water heaters take up less space than traditional tank water heaters, freeing up valuable storage area.
• Long lifespan: Electric tankless water heaters typically have a lifespan of 10-15 years, longer than traditional tank water heaters.

Popular Questions

Q: What size electric tankless water heater do I need?
A: The required size depends on the number of fixtures and the flow rate in your home. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications or consult an expert.

Q: Is it difficult to install an electric tankless water heater myself?
A: With proper planning and basic electrical knowledge, it is possible to install an electric tankless water heater yourself. However, if you are not comfortable with electrical work, it is recommended to hire a licensed electrician.

Q: How much does it cost to install an electric tankless water heater?
A: The cost of installation varies depending on the size of the water heater, the complexity of the installation, and the cost of labor in your area. Generally, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for professional installation.