Finding the Perfect Spot for a Tankless Water Heater

Thinking about going tankless? It’s a great decision and one that more and more people are making. Tankless water heaters offer “instant” performance, take up much less space, and can save you a lot of money over time. However, you’ll need to find the perfect place to install yours. Here are a few helpful tips to spark your creativity.

1. At the Point of Use

While tank-style water heaters usually go in the garage or basement because of their size, tankless water heaters can be very small. That allows them to be installed almost anywhere, including at the point of usage. Consider installing yours inside the cabinet or under the sink. They can also go in the attic and other tight spots.

2. Outdoors

Many tankless water heaters are designed to be installed outdoors. That means you can put yours on the wall outside the bathroom or kitchen without any worries. Note that some models are designed for indoor use. These can be installed outdoors, but you’ll need to install a cover to protect it from the elements. Outdoor-specific models cannot be installed indoors, however.

3. Near the Power Source

If you’re installing an electric tankless water heater, you’ll want to install it near a power source. In some cases, this may mean you have less flexibility when it comes to installation locations, particularly if you don’t want to hire an electrician to run new lines or install a new breaker.

Considerations When Locating Your Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater can be installed almost anywhere, but there are a few considerations you’ll want to make to ensure safety and maximize the unit’s lifespan.

• Indoor installation is usually preferred to outdoor installation, at least in areas where freezing temperatures are common. Make sure your unit is well-insulated to prevent freezing if you install it outdoors.
• The unit needs ventilation, so make sure any area you’re thinking about provides plenty of ventilation to prevent excess moisture from forming.
• Consider how accessible the area is. You’ll need to access the water heater from time to time for maintenance.
• Don’t install your tankless water heater near chemicals. That means if you install it under a sink, you should not store cleaning chemicals in the same space.

Still not sure where to install your tankless water heater? Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing can help. Get in touch and we can help you choose the right tankless model for your needs and install it in the right place in your home.