Thinking about a tankless water heater installation? These systems are getting more popular, and it’s easy to understand why. They heat water only when you need it, which means goodbye to waiting for a tank to refill. Plus, they take up way less room than most traditional tanks.
Before booking an installation date, it’s a good idea to know a few basics. From how the system actually works to what changes your house might need, being prepared makes the whole thing smoother. We’ve put together what to look out for so you feel confident from the start.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
A tankless water heater works by heating water as it flows through the unit. There’s no big tank holding warm water all the time. Instead, cold water enters the system when you turn on a tap or appliance, and it warms up right then and there.
These heaters come in two types:
- Gas models use a burner to heat the water and may need extra venting
- Electric models use heating elements and usually don’t need outdoor exhaust
Many people like that they never run out of hot water, especially with larger families or multiple bathrooms. They also like having that extra closet or basement space back, since the system is so compact. Still, figuring out which type suits your home takes a bit of planning, and not every space is ready for one right away.
What to Know About Your Current Plumbing and Heating System
Before swapping out your old unit, it’s worth looking at your current setup. Tankless systems are efficient, but they do work differently. Depending on what you already have in place, a few things might need to change.
- Some homes need bigger gas lines or new venting added
- Electric models might require extra wiring or breaker panel upgrades
- Water lines may need a change in placement or adjustment for pressure
Older homes, especially in places like Ottawa where freezing winters are normal, might require more prep to make sure everything works the way it should. The age of your plumbing and heater can affect how much work is required during the switch.
Timing Your Installation in Winter
Planning a water heater upgrade for winter actually makes a lot of sense. This is when families usually use more hot water, from longer showers to holiday guests running dishwashers and laundry more often.
Ottawa winters, with their dry air and freezing temperatures, can be rough on older tank heaters. Making the switch during this season gives your home an efficiency boost when you need it most. Some extra care is needed though:
- Outdoor venting must be done in a way that doesn’t create frost buildup
- Frozen lines can delay installation if they aren’t properly thawed
- We often check for cold drafts near where the heater will hang
Doing it before January’s cold sets in is a smart way to avoid mid-winter issues.
Questions to Ask Before You Schedule the Job
Making space for a tankless water heater is one thing, but knowing what type and size you need is another. Before you schedule your appointment, here are a few questions to run through:
- Where will it go? Check the space for ventilation, clearance, and access
- How much hot water does your home use? Not just showers, think laundry, dishes, and appliances
- What kind of maintenance will be needed? Regular flushing and basic cleaning keep it working its best
Size matters here. Picking a unit too small means it could struggle to keep up, while one that’s too big wastes energy. We help guide people through this step so they don’t end up with the wrong fit.
What to Expect on Installation Day
Installation usually takes a few hours depending on how much needs changing. If updates to pipes, gas lines, or the electrical panel are needed, give yourself extra time that day.
What we often tell homeowners:
- Expect us to access your utility room, basement, or garage if that’s where the current heater is
- Clear the area of boxes, shelves, or anything that blocks access to the walls
- After setup, we do a test run to confirm everything heats properly and vents clear
You’ll want to be around in case we need to explain how to use new settings, inspect the hot water flow in the furthest part of the house, or talk through the warranty.
Expert Tankless Upgrades for Ottawa Homes
At Huntley Plumbing, our team installs both gas and electric tankless water heaters, ensuring the system is suited for Ottawa’s cold winters and your family’s water needs. We tackle everything from venting and plumbing changes to system testing, so installation day goes as smoothly as possible.
Getting ready for a tankless water heater installation doesn’t have to feel complicated. With the right plan and a bit of prep, it’s just another smart home upgrade. It saves space, handles daily water demand better, and can hold up through the winter when pipes are pushed to the limit.
Knowing what to expect takes the guesswork out of the process. Whether your home’s a new build or has been standing through a few Ottawa winters, understanding what’s involved makes everything run smoother. A little preparation now means steady, strong hot water whenever you need it.
Thinking about a winter upgrade or looking to improve how your home handles daily water use? A more reliable setup could make all the difference. We’re here to answer your questions and help determine if your space is a good fit for a tankless water heater installation. These systems are efficient, compact, and well suited for Ottawa homes dealing with heavier demands during colder months. At Huntley Plumbing, we know the right setup can make daily routines run smoother. Give us a call to discuss your options.
