Homeowners in Boise, Idaho need efficient water heaters to provide a continuous supply of hot water for showers, dishwashers, and washing machines in their homes. If you’re in need of a water heater replacement, one of your first questions may be about how long the installation process will take.
Setting clear expectations is an important part of this process. You’ll want to ask your installation technician for more details on your situation. The timelines vary slightly for tankless versus tank-based water heaters. Factors like existing plumbing infrastructure can also impact how long the installation will take. Generally speaking, if there are no issues or complications, a professional plumber will install a tank-based water heater in two to four hours.
A tankless water system can take quite a bit longer. If you already have an existing tankless water system, then you may not need new plumbing work, which will save your plumber a lot of time. This kind of installation may take around three hours. If you are switching from a tank-based water heater to a tankless system, it may require more time. You’ll need to discuss the finer details of your installation with your professional plumber, who will be able to tell you what new systems you’ll need and how long the process will take.
A Timeline for Tankless Water Heater Installation
Tankless water heaters have gained popularity among Boise homeowners due to their energy efficiency and on-demand hot water capabilities. The installation process typically begins with an initial consultation where a professional plumber assesses your household’s hot water requirements. They will evaluate and let you know the appropriate size tankless water heater you’ll need. This step ensures optimal performance and efficiency.
The plumber will then do some preparatory work. This phase may include making necessary water supply line connections, gas or electrical connections, and air vents. If there is an existing water heater, it will be removed during this stage of the project.
Your plumber will then need to mount your tankless water heater. This stage is where most of the actual installation happens. This is typically done on a wall. The plumber will connect the unit to the water supply lines, exhaust vent, and gas or electrical lines.
Once installed, the unit will need to be tested. Your plumber will follow the connections and conduct comprehensive testing. This may include adjusting the temperature settings and making modifications to optimize the water heater’s performance. This will ensure that your new tankless water heater is functioning efficiently.
On average, the installation of a tankless water heater can take approximately 10 hours. However, the specific duration may vary based on the complexity of the project and the unique requirements of your home. Installations may be done in six hours when an existing tankless water heater left working infrastructure in place. More complex installations may take as many as 15 hours to be done properly.
A Timeline for Tank-Based Water Heater Installation
Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular, but we still perform a lot of tank-based water heater installations here in Boise. Similar to tankless water heaters, a professional plumber will evaluate your household’s hot water needs. They will determine the appropriate size for your tank-based water heater. They will also evaluate whether your home has any special requirements that could impact your installation.
The plumber will inspect the existing connections in your home. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure compatibility with the existing infrastructure and your new water heater. They will drain and disconnect the previous water heater and remove it.
A professional plumber will then need to install the new tank-based water heater. This will most likely be installed in the same location as your old unit unless a change was previously discussed. The installation will involve connecting the unit to the water supply lines, gas or electrical lines, and a proper ventilation outlet. Your professional plumber will examine the unit and install the necessary safety devices.
Once all the connections are safely in place, your plumber will fill the water tank. This gives them the opportunity to check for leaks and test the system. They will adjust the temperature settings. They will test and fine-tune the system until they are sure it’s working at the highest standard.
On average, the installation of a tank-based water heater can take approximately two to four hours. This may depend on the complexity of the project, the location of the water heater, and any additional plumbing modifications that may be required.
Factors Impacting Installation Time
Several factors can influence the overall installation time for both tankless and tank-based water heaters. The type and size of your new water heater may impact the installation process. For example, some water heaters have more intricate venting requirements. This means the plumber needs to take additional time to make sure they’re properly connected. Larger units may also require more connections and work to get the unit into place. The plumber may need more time for testing to be sure all is working well when there are more intricate parts involved.
The condition and compatibility of your home’s existing plumbing infrastructure can affect the installation time. The installation may take longer if modifications or plumbing repairs are necessary.
The installation time can be impacted by the accessibility of the installation site and the location of the water heater within your home. For example, if the water heater is in the basement or on an upper floor, your plumber will need to safely navigate the stairs. Difficult-to-reach areas may require more time.
Obtaining necessary permits and adhering to local building codes can also affect the installation timeline. This is one advantage local homeowners have found when hiring our team at Express Plumbing Heating & Air. As professional plumbers who’ve worked in Boise for years, we know the local codes and how to navigate them without impacting the installation process.
The Lifespan of a Water Heater
Fortunately, new water heaters aren’t something homeowners have to install every day. Understanding how long your water heater will last can help you plan for maintenance and future replacements.
Tank-Based Water Heaters
For a tank-based water heater, we usually recommend homeowners plan for a replacement once their current unit is a decade old. Traditional tank-based water heaters have a shorter lifespan than tankless models.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are known to have a longer lifespan. This is a large part of why homeowners choose to invest in these systems. On average, well-maintained tankless systems can last up to 20 years.
Trust the Experts
Consulting a professional plumber is the best way to guarantee a successful and efficient water heater installation. At Express Plumbing Heating & Air, our team of highly skilled plumbers is ready to exceed your expectations. We’ll work closely with you to make sure your water heater installation is a positive experience.
Our experts also work on plumbing, heating, and air conditioning systems. Our plumbers can help you with repair or installation projects, water softener installation, or even installing your new bathtub. Our team helps local homeowners by providing top-notch drain cleaning, sewer repair, and septic pumping services as well. If you’re in need of air conditioning installation, repair, or maintenance, give us a call. We’re happy to help homeowners in the Boise area keep their homes efficient and comfortable.
