How to Install an Electric Tankless Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you want hot water anytime without waiting? An electric tankless water heater can help! This guide will show you how to install an electric tankless water heater step by step. You will learn about tools, wiring, plumbing, safety tips, and more.

What is an Electric Tankless Water Heater?

An electric tankless water heater gives you hot water on demand. It heats water only when you need it. This saves energy and money. Many people choose an electric tankless water heater because it is smaller than a tank water heater. Also, it lasts longer and you don’t run out of hot water!

Benefits of tankless water heater:

• Saves energy
• Heats water fast
• Uses less space
• Lasts longer than tank water heater You can choose electric or gas tankless water heaters. Many people pick electric because they are easy to install and cost less to maintain.

Tools & Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather all the tools and materials you need. Here is a list:

Tools to install tankless water heater:

• Wrenches
• Pipe cutter
• Drill
• Screwdrivers
• Voltage tester

Materials:

• Tankless water heater installation kit
• Mounting hardware
• Water pipes and fittings
• Shut-off valves
• Teflon tape

Wear gloves and safety goggles to stay safe during your DIY tankless water heater installation.

Pre-Installation Checklist

Do these things before you start:

• Check tankless water heater electrical requirements. Look at the voltage and amperage.
• Make sure your water supply is good.
• Turn off the power at the breaker box.
• Turn off the main water supply.
• Get permits if needed in your city. This keeps your home safe and follows rules.

Removing the Old Water Heater

If you have an old tank water heater, you must remove it first.

• Turn off the water supply and drain the old water heater.
• Disconnect the water lines and electrical wires.
• Ask for help to move the old unit.
• Call your city for old water heater disposal rules.

Mounting the New Unit

Pick a good place for your new heater.

Where to install tankless water heater:

• Mount it on a wall that is easy to reach.
• Keep it away from water splashes.
• Leave space around it for air and repair work.

Use a drill and screws to mount the electric tankless water heater. Make sure it is level and tight.

Connecting the Water Lines

Next, connect the water lines.

• Attach the inlet pipe for cold water and the outlet pipe for hot water.
• Use Teflon tape to stop leaks.
• Install shut-off valves for easy repair later.
• Add filters if needed to keep water clean.

Tip: Do a leak test. Turn on the water slowly and check for drips.

Electrical Wiring

Warning: Only do wiring if you feel safe. If not, hire an electrician.

• Check the breaker size for your heater. Many electric tankless water heaters need a 240-volt breaker.
• Follow the tankless water heater wiring guide in the manual.
• Connect wires to the breaker box.
• Make sure the heater is grounded to avoid shocks.

Testing and Final Checks

You are almost done!

• Turn the power back on.
• Turn on the water supply.
• Open a hot water tap and check if the heater works.
• Use the manual to adjust tankless water heater temperature.
• Watch for leaks or error lights.

If you see any problems, use the tankless water heater troubleshooting guide in your manual.

Safety Tips & Maintenance Advice

Keep your heater working well with these tips:

Tankless water heater safety tips:

• Do not block the heater.
• Check wires for damage sometimes.
• Test shut-off valves.

Tankless water heater maintenance:

• Flush the heater every year to stop mineral build-up.
• Clean filters if you have them.
• Call a pro if you see big problems.

When to Call a Professional

DIY is fun, but sometimes you need help. Call a professional tankless water heater installer if you:

• Feel unsafe with wiring
• Need help with plumbing
• Have big leaks
• See error codes you don’t understand

Conclusion

Now you know how to install an electric tankless water heater! You learned how to remove old water heaters, mount the new one, connect water lines, do wiring, test, and do basic maintenance.

Check the manual for your heater for more help. If you get stuck, find a licensed plumber or electrician.

Enjoy endless hot water!