Question 1

Is a tankless water heater worth it in Vancouver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for most Metro Vancouver homeowners. Tankless water heaters save 20-40% on water heating costs, last 20+ years (double the lifespan of tanks), never run out of hot water, and free up valuable space. The upfront investment is offset by energy savings, rebates, and longer lifespan. Given Vancouver's moderate climate and high energy costs, tankless systems provide excellent long-term value.

Question 2

How much does tankless installation cost?

Accepted Answer

Complete tankless water heater installation in Metro Vancouver typically costs $4,500-$8,500 depending on the unit type, required upgrades, and installation complexity. Gas tankless installations range from $4,500-$7,500, while tank-to-tankless conversions cost $5,000-$8,500. This includes the unit, all infrastructure upgrades (gas lines, venting, electrical), permits, old unit removal, and professional installation. FortisBC rebates up to $1,000 help offset costs.

Question 3

Can I replace my tank water heater with tankless?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Tank-to-tankless conversion is one of our most common services. The process involves removing your old tank, installing the new tankless unit on a wall, upgrading gas lines or electrical circuits as needed, installing proper venting, and connecting water lines. Most conversions are completed in one day. The result is endless hot water, lower energy bills, and freed-up floor space.

Question 4

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most tankless water heater installations are completed in 4-8 hours. Simple replacements (tankless-to-tankless) may take 3-4 hours, while tank-to-tankless conversions requiring significant gas line or electrical upgrades can take 6-8 hours. We complete most installations in a single day, restoring hot water service before we leave. Same-day and emergency installations are available for urgent needs.

Question 5

Do tankless systems work in cold climates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, modern tankless water heaters work excellently in Metro Vancouver's climate. While incoming water temperature affects performance (colder water requires more heating), properly sized units easily handle Vancouver's typical 50-55°F groundwater temperature. High-quality units like Navien, Rinnai, and Noritz are designed for cold-climate operation and deliver consistent hot water year-round. We size units based on your specific water temperature and demand.

Question 6

What size tankless water heater do I need?

Accepted Answer

Proper sizing depends on your home's simultaneous hot water demand and incoming water temperature. Most Metro Vancouver homes need units rated 180,000-199,000 BTU (gas) or 27-36 kW (electric). A 3-bedroom home typically requires a unit that can deliver 6-8 gallons per minute (GPM). We assess your fixtures, usage patterns, and water temperature to recommend the right size - not undersized (causing problems) or oversized (wasting money).

Question 7

Can tankless handle multiple showers at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when properly sized. A correctly sized tankless unit can simultaneously supply multiple showers, dishwasher, and washing machine without running out of hot water. For example, a typical 199,000 BTU unit can deliver 8+ GPM in Vancouver, enough for 2-3 showers plus other fixtures running simultaneously. This is a key advantage over tank heaters, which run out when the stored hot water is depleted.

Question 8

Will my water pressure decrease?

Accepted Answer

No, properly installed tankless water heaters maintain full water pressure. Modern tankless units have minimal flow restriction and don't reduce pressure. If you currently have good water pressure, you'll maintain it with tankless. In fact, some homeowners notice improved performance because tankless systems eliminate the pressure fluctuations that occur when tank heaters run low.

Question 9

Do I need to upgrade my gas line?

Accepted Answer

Most tank-to-tankless conversions require gas line upgrades. Tankless units need 150,000-200,000 BTU/hr, typically requiring 3/4" or 1" gas lines, while most tank heaters used 1/2" lines. We assess your existing gas infrastructure, measure capacity, and include all necessary upgrades in our quote. Gas line upgrades are a normal, expected part of tankless installation and ensure safe, optimal performance.

Question 10

What electrical work is required?

Accepted Answer

Gas tankless units need 120V outlet for controls and ignition. Electric tankless systems require significant electrical work: dedicated 240V circuits, substantial amperage (100-150A for whole-home units), and sometimes panel upgrades. Gas units have minimal electrical requirements, while electric units need major electrical infrastructure. We include all required electrical work in our installations and quotes.

Question 11

How does venting work?

Accepted Answer

Tankless venting depends on unit type. Condensing units (95%+ efficiency) use PVC pipe venting that's easier and less expensive to install. Non-condensing units (80-85% efficiency) require stainless steel venting rated for higher temperatures. Both vent horizontally through exterior walls or vertically through roofs. We design venting to meet code requirements, manufacturer specs, and your home's layout. Proper venting is critical for safety and efficiency.

Question 12

Are permits required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tankless water heater installations require permits in Metro Vancouver municipalities. We obtain all necessary gas, plumbing, and electrical permits as part of our service. Inspections ensure code-compliant installation, proper safety measures, and correct venting. Permitted installations protect your home, maintain insurance coverage, and preserve property value. We handle the entire permit process from application to final inspection.

Question 13

How much will I save on energy bills?

Accepted Answer

Most Metro Vancouver homeowners save 20-40% on water heating costs with tankless systems. A typical home spending $350/year on tank water heating will spend $210-280 with tankless - saving $70-140 annually. Over a 20-year lifespan, that's $1,400-$2,800 in energy savings, plus avoiding one tank replacement ($1,500-$2,000). Actual savings depend on usage patterns, energy rates, and unit efficiency.

Question 14

Is gas or electric tankless better?

Accepted Answer

For Metro Vancouver, gas tankless is usually better for whole-home applications. Gas units deliver higher flow rates, lower operating costs, work during power outages, and qualify for FortisBC rebates. Electric tankless works well for point-of-use applications (single sink or shower) but whole-home electric requires expensive electrical upgrades and has higher operating costs. We recommend based on your specific situation, existing infrastructure, and usage needs.

Question 15

What's the difference between condensing and non-condensing?

Accepted Answer

Condensing tankless units (95%+ efficiency) capture heat from exhaust gases using a second heat exchanger, achieving higher efficiency and using PVC venting. Non-condensing units (80-85% efficiency) use single heat exchangers and require stainless steel venting due to higher exhaust temperatures. Condensing units cost $200-500 more but qualify for higher rebates, save more energy, and have simpler venting. Most new installations use condensing technology.

Question 16

How long do tankless water heaters last?

Accepted Answer

Tankless water heaters typically last 20-25 years with proper maintenance, double the 10-15 year lifespan of tank heaters. Quality brands like Navien, Rinnai, and Noritz are engineered for longevity. The key is annual descaling in Metro Vancouver's moderately hard water to prevent mineral buildup. With regular maintenance, many tankless units operate reliably for 20+ years, making them excellent long-term investments.

Question 17

What maintenance is required?

Accepted Answer

Annual descaling is the primary maintenance for tankless water heaters in Metro Vancouver. This involves flushing the heat exchanger with descaling solution to remove mineral deposits. The process takes 30-60 minutes and costs $150-250. We also recommend cleaning the inlet filter, inspecting venting, and checking gas connections. Unlike tank heaters that accumulate sediment and rust, tankless units need minimal maintenance when properly serviced annually.

Question 18

Can tankless water heaters freeze?

Accepted Answer

Modern tankless units have built-in freeze protection that activates when temperatures drop near freezing. For outdoor installations or unheated spaces, we install additional freeze prevention measures. In Metro Vancouver's moderate climate, freezing is rarely an issue for properly installed units in typical locations (basements, utility rooms, garages). Units automatically circulate water and activate heating elements when needed to prevent freeze damage.

Tankless Water Heater Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Performance & Sizing

Installation & Requirements

Operating Costs & Efficiency

Maintenance & Longevity

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