Are you tired of running out of hot water? A tankless water heater can give you endless hot showers and help you save money on energy bills. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install a tankless water heater step by step.

Many homeowners want to switch to a tankless hot water heater to save space and lower energy costs. But installing it the right way is very important. Let’s look at what you need to know.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater, sometimes called an on-demand water heater, heats water only when you need it. This means you don’t waste energy keeping a big tank full of hot water all the time. Many people like tankless heaters because they last longer than old tank water heaters.

What to Know Before Installing

Before you install your new heater, make sure you:

Check local plumbing codes. Some areas require a permit.
Decide if you need a gas tankless water heater or an electric tankless water heater.
Figure out how much hot water you need for your family. Get the right size tankless water heater for your home.
Look at where you will put the heater. Good air flow and space for venting are very important, especially for gas models.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

To install your tankless unit, you’ll need:

Pipe cutter
Wrenches
Drill
Mounting brackets
Pipe fittings
Shut-off valves
Tankless water heater installation kit
Safety glasses and gloves

How to Install a Tankless Water Heater (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to install your new heater safely. Always follow the manufacturer’s guide too.

Step 1: Turn Off Utilities

First, shut off the water supply, gas line, and electricity. This keeps you safe while working.

Step 2: Remove the Old Water Heater

If you have an old tank heater, turn it off, drain the water, and disconnect it. Remove it carefully.

Step 3: Mount the Tankless Heater

Pick a good spot on the wall. Use a mounting bracket to hang your new unit. Make sure it’s level and secure.

Step 4: Connect the Water Lines

Connect the cold water inlet pipe and the hot water outlet pipe. Use shut-off valves so you can turn water off when you need to do maintenance. Add isolation valves to make it easy to flush the system later.

Step 5: Connect Gas or Electric Supply

For a gas unit, run a gas line from the main supply. Use the right size pipe for enough gas flow. For an electric unit, connect the wires to a circuit breaker that matches the heater’s needs.

Tip: If you’re not sure about gas or electrical work, call a licensed plumber or electrician.

Step 6: Install Venting (Gas Units Only)

Gas tankless heaters need a vent to push exhaust outside. Use the right vent pipes and follow the local code. Poor venting can cause dangerous carbon monoxide leaks, so check your work twice!

Step 7: Check and Test

Turn the water and gas or power back on. Look for leaks. Open a hot water tap and test the water temperature. Make sure the heater works the way it should.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make these mistakes when installing:

Choosing the wrong size heater
Using the wrong vent pipes
Not checking local codes or skipping permits
Forgetting to install shut-off or isolation valves

Mistakes can cost more money later. If you’re not sure, search for professional tankless water heater installation near me and hire a pro.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Installing a tankless heater is not too hard for someone handy, but some jobs need an expert:

Running new gas lines
Installing new electric circuits
Meeting city codes
Keeping the heater’s warranty safe

Sometimes a DIY tankless water heater install is fine. But if you feel stuck, call a licensed plumber or electrician.

How to Take Care of Your Tankless Heater

After you install it, you must take care of your heater. To keep it running well:

Flush it once a year to remove the scale.
Check for leaks and corrosion.
Clean the filter if your model has one.

This makes your heater last longer and keeps your energy savings high.

Final Thoughts

Installing a tankless water heater gives you endless hot water, saves space, and lowers your energy bills. Just make sure you plan ahead, get the right size, and follow each step carefully.

If you’re not sure, it’s okay to call a pro. You’ll enjoy long hot showers and save money for years!

How to Install a Tankless Water Heater