Water Heaters

By converting to a natural gas water heater you will enjoy the following benefits:

• Cost significantly less to operate than electric and propane models
• Heat water up to twice as fast as electric models
• Tankless models further cut expenses by only heating water when it's needed
• Most models operate during power outages (all models if connected to a natural gas power generator)
• Emit up to half the CO2 greenhouse gases compared to electric models

Tank or tankless?

Tank water heaters

• Usually installed in basements, garages, attics and closets
• Cost less to operate than comparable electric and propane models
• Multiple capacities available
• Several venting options

Tankless water heaters

• Use significantly less energy by only heating water when it's needed
• Are significantly more efficient than tank water heaters
• Provide an endless supply of hot water
• Have multiple venting options
• Take up less space

Locating the new water heater

You can install the new water heater in the same location as your old one to save time and money. However, if you need to relocate it, discuss these issues with your sales representative:

• Venting requirements: If installed inside, how will the water heater be vented?
• Inside vs. outside: What are the differences between installing the unit inside and outside?
• Electrical wiring: If needed, is there an electrical outlet near the installation site?
• Gas line: Will the installer need to run a gas line for the new water heater?
• Bathrooms and kitchens: All things considered, where would be the best location for the new water heater?

Other factors

• Cost: When deciding which model is right for you, read each unit’s UEF. Less expensive models tend to be less efficient. Consider the old expression, “You can pay me now or pay me later.”
• Uniform Energy Factor (UEF): The higher the UEF, the more efficient the unit. Mid-range efficiency natural gas tank water heaters have a UEF of between .58 and .62. Tankless units usually have a UEF of .81 or higher. Effective Jan. 15, 2018, the Department of Energy changed testing standards from using an Energy Factor (EF) to a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF).
• First-hour rating: First-Hour Rating (FHR) actually determines how much hot water the tank can supply in an hour. This number is printed on the tank’s yellow “Energy Guide” label.
• Tankless heaters are different: Tankless water heaters have different gas requirements than tank models and may require a different size gas meter or regulator to handle the extra load. They also have other unique installation requirements, including water pressure, cold water pipe size, electrical requirements, etc. Piedmont’s experts can guide you through these issues.

Installation

Installers should be licensed, bonded and insured to protect you and your home if something is damaged or someone is injured during the installation. In most cases, using an unlicensed installer will void the warranty. In the case of Rinnai tankless water heaters, the installer must also be a certified Rinnai installer or the warranty will be voided.

• Codes and permits: You’re at risk if your installer does not follow building codes or fails to pull the proper permits.
• Experience: Make sure the installer is experienced by checking his or her references. Also, demand a written estimate for the work.
• Disposal of old equipment: Some installers will not dispose of the old unit, while others will charge an extra disposal fee. Make sure you know what to expect up front to avoid an additional expense.

Piedmont Natural Gas offers water heater installation

When it’s time to buy a new water heater, look to the experts at Piedmont Natural Gas and be assured you’re getting the best model for your needs. It will be installed by a licensed, bonded and insured professional who will follow all building codes and obtain the necessary permits. Our installers are also Rinnai-certified. And don’t worry about the old water heater. We’ll dispose of it at no additional charge.

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