Replacing an old appliance is one thing, but upgrading to a tankless water heater is a complete system overhaul. It’s not a simple swap. This installation requires re-routing plumbing, running new and larger gas lines, and drilling through your home's exterior for a specialized venting system. So, when you ask, "Can I install a tankless water heater myself?" you need to consider if you’re prepared for a small construction project. This guide will walk you through the major steps—from decommissioning your old tank to commissioning the new unit—to show you the full scope of what a safe and successful installation requires.

Key Takeaways

Think Upgrade, Not Swap: Installing a tankless water heater is a complex project that requires significant upgrades to your home's plumbing, gas, and venting systems—it's not a simple appliance replacement.
Prioritize Safety Over Savings: A DIY installation introduces serious risks like gas leaks and carbon monoxide exposure, and it will almost certainly void your manufacturer's warranty, erasing any potential savings.
Protect Your Investment with a Pro: Hiring a certified professional is the only way to guarantee the installation is safe, compliant with local codes, and protects your warranty, ensuring your new unit performs correctly for years to come.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

If you've ever had your relaxing, hot shower cut short by a sudden blast of icy water, you understand the main limitation of a traditional tank-style water heater. That large cylinder in your utility room can only hold so much hot water, and once it's gone, you’re left waiting. A tankless water heater, often called an on-demand water heater, works differently. Instead of storing a limited supply of water, it heats it instantly, right when you need it.

This modern approach provides a continuous flow of hot water and is much more energy-efficient because it isn't running all day just to keep a big tank warm. Think of it like a single-serve coffee machine that brews a fresh cup on demand, rather than a pot that sits on a burner all morning. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term savings and superior convenience are why so many Okanagan homeowners are making the switch to a more reliable heating solution.

How On-Demand Hot Water Works

The process behind a tankless system is straightforward but powerful. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water flows into the unit. A sensor detects this flow and immediately activates a high-powered gas burner or electric element. This heating component warms the water to your set temperature as it passes through a device called a heat exchanger. The result is perfectly hot water delivered directly to your faucet, without the wait or the waste.

Because the heater generates so much heat so quickly, it demands a lot of energy in that moment. This often means your home’s existing gas line is too small to support it safely. A professional assessment is crucial to determine if you need to upgrade your plumbing and gas infrastructure to handle the new appliance.

The Benefits of Going Tankless

The most popular benefit of going tankless is the endless supply of hot water. You can run the dishwasher, do laundry, and still have enough hot water for the whole family to enjoy their showers. Another huge plus is the space you’ll reclaim. These units are compact and mount on the wall, freeing up valuable floor space that your old, bulky tank used to occupy.

Over their lifespan, tankless models also deliver significant energy savings. By heating water only when you need it, you can reduce energy consumption compared to a storage tank that constantly burns energy. With a lifespan that can exceed 20 years—nearly double that of a traditional tank—a tankless water heater is a smart investment in your home’s comfort, efficiency, and long-term value.

What Does a Tankless Installation Actually Involve?

Switching to a tankless water heater is a significant upgrade for your home, not just a simple swap. Unlike a traditional tank that can often be replaced with a similar model using existing connections, a tankless unit requires a complete rethink of your plumbing, gas, and venting systems. It’s more like a small construction project than a straightforward appliance replacement.

Before you even think about picking up a wrench, it’s important to understand the full scope of the job. From specialized parts to major system modifications, the process involves several critical steps that demand precision and technical know-how. Getting any of these steps wrong can lead to poor performance, safety hazards, or costly damage. Let’s walk through what a proper installation really looks like so you can make an informed decision.

The Tools and Materials You'll Need

A tankless installation requires more than just a standard toolbox. You’ll need to securely mount the unit, which often involves installing a thick wood board as a backing on your wall studs. The unit itself doesn't come with everything you need; you'll have to purchase special tankless water heater service valves. These aren't your average valves—they are specifically designed with drain ports that allow for future flushing and maintenance, which is essential for keeping your unit running efficiently in the Okanagan, where hard water can be an issue. You’ll also need the correct piping, fittings, and potentially a condensate drain line, depending on the model.

Understanding Gas and Electrical Requirements

Here’s where things get serious. Tankless water heaters need a lot of energy, fast. This means your existing gas line, which was perfectly fine for your old tank heater, is almost certainly too small. You will likely need to run a larger gas line (often 3/4-inch or bigger) directly from your meter. In some cases, your gas meter itself may need to be upgraded by the utility company to handle the higher demand. Furthermore, every tankless unit needs a dedicated 120-volt electrical outlet to power its internal computer, sensors, and fan. This isn't a job for an extension cord; it requires proper electrical work to ensure safe operation.

Meeting Venting Specifications

Proper venting is non-negotiable—it’s a critical safety measure. Your old tank heater probably used a simple vertical vent. A modern high-efficiency tankless unit is a condensing appliance and cannot use that old vent. It requires a special, sealed venting system, usually made of PVC or stainless steel, that often runs horizontally through an exterior wall. This means you’ll need to drill two new, large holes through your home’s wall: one for fresh air intake and another for the exhaust. Using the wrong materials or incorrect slope can lead to corrosive condensation leaking back into the unit or, far worse, a dangerous carbon monoxide leak in your home.

The Big Question: Can You Install It Yourself?

So, you’re handy, you love a good project, and you’re wondering if you can tackle a tankless water heater installation on your own. It’s a fair question, and the DIY spirit is something we admire. However, this project falls squarely into the “advanced” category and carries significant risks if done incorrectly. Unlike hanging a shelf or painting a room, installing a tankless water heater involves a complex mix of plumbing, electrical, and gas work where small mistakes can lead to big problems. It's one of the most technical upgrades you can make to your home's systems.

Before you even think about adding a unit to your online shopping cart, it’s important to honestly evaluate what the job entails. This isn’t just about saving money on installation costs; it’s about ensuring the long-term safety of your home and family. A successful installation requires a deep understanding of gas line sizing, proper venting for carbon monoxide, and local building codes that are in place for a very good reason. Getting any of these elements wrong can lead to inefficient performance at best, and dangerous conditions at worst. We’ll walk through the key things you need to consider to make an informed, safe decision for your home’s plumbing system.

Assess Your DIY Skill Level

First, let’s talk skills. Installing a tankless water heater is not a beginner-level task. To do this job safely and correctly, you need to be confident in several trades. This includes advanced plumbing skills for soldering copper pipes and ensuring watertight connections, electrical knowledge for wiring the unit into your home’s power supply, and—most critically—experience working with natural gas or propane lines. Gas fitting is a specialized skill for a reason; an improper connection can lead to dangerous leaks. If your experience is limited to fixing a leaky faucet or installing a light fixture, this is likely a project to leave to the pros.

Understand Local Codes and Permits

Every municipality in the Okanagan, from Vernon to Penticton, has specific building codes that govern the installation of gas appliances. These rules aren't just suggestions; they are legal requirements designed to prevent fires, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Before you start, you would need to research the specific BC building codes that apply in your area, apply for a permit, and schedule inspections. An inspector will check your work to ensure it’s done safely. Skipping this step can result in fines, trouble selling your home later, and—most importantly—a potentially unsafe installation that puts your family at risk.

Why Professional Certifications Matter

When you hire a professional, you’re not just paying for their time; you’re paying for their expertise and qualifications. In British Columbia, technicians who work with gas appliances must be certified. At TruFinity, our team includes Red Seal Plumbers and licensed Class B Gasfitters. These certifications mean they’ve completed thousands of hours of training and passed rigorous exams on safety protocols, proper installation techniques, and local codes. This expertise ensures your unit is installed correctly, operates efficiently, and, crucially, keeps your manufacturer’s warranty intact. Many warranties are voided if the unit isn’t installed by a licensed professional, turning a DIY project into a very costly mistake.

The Real Risks of a DIY Installation

The satisfaction of completing a home project yourself is a great feeling. But when it comes to installing a tankless water heater, the risks can quickly outweigh the rewards. This isn't like hanging a shelf or painting a room; it's a complex job that involves your home's gas, plumbing, and electrical systems. A single mistake can have serious consequences for your property and, more importantly, your family's safety.

Before you start watching tutorial videos and ordering parts, it’s crucial to understand what can go wrong. From dangerous gas leaks and voided warranties to hidden costs that erase any initial savings, the potential pitfalls are significant. Professional installation isn't just about convenience; it's about ensuring the job is done correctly and safely, adhering to strict local codes and manufacturer specifications. Our certified technicians handle these complex plumbing and heating systems every day, giving you peace of mind that your new water heater will perform efficiently and safely for years to come.

Dangers of Improper Gas Line Connections

Working with gas lines is the most critical part of a tankless water heater installation, and it’s where a DIY project can become truly dangerous. Natural gas and propane are highly flammable, and even a minuscule leak from a poorly sealed connection can lead to a fire or explosion. Licensed professionals use specialized tools to tighten fittings to the correct torque and perform pressure tests to guarantee the lines are completely sealed. Without this training and equipment, it’s easy to make a mistake you won’t notice until it’s too late. That’s why this work is legally restricted to certified technicians, like our team of Class B Gasfitters, who have the proven expertise to handle it safely.

Carbon Monoxide and Fire Hazards

Proper venting is just as important as the gas connection. A tankless water heater produces exhaust fumes that contain carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal. If the venting system is installed incorrectly—using the wrong materials, an improper slope, or terminating too close to a window or air intake—that CO can seep back into your home. Furthermore, the vent pipes get extremely hot. If they are installed without proper clearance from combustible materials like wood framing or insulation, they create a serious fire hazard. A professional ensures your unit’s venting system is perfectly installed to meet all safety codes, protecting your family from these silent threats.

How a DIY Install Can Void Your Warranty

Your new tankless water heater is a major investment, and its manufacturer's warranty is there to protect it. However, nearly every manufacturer requires the unit to be installed by a licensed plumber or certified technician. If you install it yourself and something goes wrong—even if it’s a clear manufacturing defect—the company can refuse to honor the warranty. That means you could be responsible for the full cost of expensive repairs or even a complete replacement unit. Hiring a professional not only ensures a safe installation but also keeps your warranty intact, safeguarding your investment for its entire lifespan. It's a key part of getting the most value from your purchase, just like taking advantage of current rebates and offers.

The Hidden Costs of a Mistake

The goal of a DIY project is usually to save money, but with a tankless water heater, a mistake can cost you far more than you would have paid a professional. A small plumbing leak can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage and mold remediation. An incorrect electrical connection can fry the unit’s sensitive electronics. If you get partway through and realize you’re in over your head, you’ll end up paying a professional to fix your mistakes and finish the job. Plus, if an issue caused by improper installation leads to a fire or flood, your homeowner's insurance may not cover the damage. When you consider the potential expenses, investing in a professional installation with clear, upfront financing options is the most financially sound decision.

A Step-by-Step Look at the Installation Process

Switching to a tankless water heater is a significant upgrade for your home, but it’s not as simple as swapping out one appliance for another. A proper installation is a multi-stage project that requires a blend of skills from different trades, including plumbing, gas fitting, electrical work, and even some light construction. While every home in the Okanagan has its unique layout, the core steps of the process remain the same.

Understanding what a professional installation actually entails is valuable for any homeowner. It helps you appreciate the skill and precision involved, and it clarifies why certain steps are absolutely critical for the safety and efficiency of your new system. Even if you decide to hire a professional—which is almost always the recommended route—knowing the process helps you ask the right questions and feel confident in the work being done. Let's walk through a high-level overview of what a proper tankless water heater installation looks like from start to finish, so you can see exactly what it takes to get the job done right.

Removing Your Old Water Heater

Before the new, compact unit can be installed, the old, bulky one has to come out. The process starts with the essential safety steps: shutting off the water, gas, and electrical supply to your current tank heater. Next, the tank itself, which can hold 40 to 60 gallons of water, needs to be completely drained. Once it’s empty, the real work begins: disconnecting the water lines, gas pipe, and venting. These old, heavy tanks can be incredibly awkward and difficult to move, especially if they’re tucked away in a tight closet or basement corner. Safely removing and disposing of the old unit is the first major hurdle of the installation.

Mounting and Connecting the New Unit

Unlike traditional tank heaters, tankless units are compact and mount directly to a wall. This step requires careful planning to ensure the unit is placed in a location that allows for proper venting and easy access for future maintenance. A professional will often install a sturdy wood backing onto the wall studs to create a secure mounting surface. Once the unit is hung, the hot and cold water lines are connected. This is a critical plumbing step where every connection must be perfectly sealed to prevent leaks. Even a small, slow drip can lead to significant water damage over time, so precision here is non-negotiable.

Installing Gas Lines and Venting

This is the most technical—and most critical—part of the installation. Tankless water heaters require a much larger volume of gas on demand than traditional tanks, which means your existing gas line is almost certainly too small. A certified gas fitter will need to run a new, larger-diameter gas line from your meter to the unit to ensure it gets enough fuel to work efficiently and safely. You also can't reuse the old vent. Tankless systems require specialized venting, often using two PVC pipes that run through an exterior wall—one for fresh air intake and one for exhaust. This involves drilling precise holes and ensuring the entire system is airtight to prevent dangerous exhaust leaks.

Testing for Safety and Performance

Once everything is connected, the job isn't over. The final stage is all about safety and verification. A professional technician will meticulously check every single connection for both water and gas leaks using specialized tools. They will then commission the unit, firing it up and adjusting the settings to ensure it’s operating according to the manufacturer’s specifications for optimal performance and efficiency. Finally, a proper installation includes a final inspection to ensure the work complies with all local building codes and safety standards. This final check provides the ultimate peace of mind that your new water heater is safe, reliable, and ready to provide endless hot water for your family.

Common (and Costly) DIY Installation Mistakes

Even the most confident DIY enthusiast can run into trouble with a tankless water heater installation. These units are more complex than their tank-style predecessors, and a few common mistakes can lead to poor performance, expensive repairs, or serious safety hazards. Understanding these potential pitfalls is the first step in deciding whether this is a project you should take on yourself. Let's walk through the most frequent errors we see so you can avoid them.

Installing the Wrong Venting

One of the biggest differences between a traditional tank and a tankless unit is the venting. Your old water heater likely had a simple metal flue that vented exhaust straight up through the roof. A modern high-efficiency tankless heater, however, is a condensing appliance that requires a completely different setup. It needs two dedicated pipes—one for pulling in fresh air for combustion and another for pushing out the cooler, acidic exhaust. These are typically run horizontally through an exterior wall. Using the wrong type of pipe or failing to properly seal the connections can lead to corrosive condensation damaging the unit or, worse, leaking dangerous carbon monoxide into your home.

Sizing the Gas Line Incorrectly

A tankless water heater earns its efficiency by heating water on demand, but doing so requires a massive burst of energy. This means it needs a much larger volume of natural gas than your old tank heater ever did. In almost every case, the existing 1/2-inch gas line running to your old unit is too small. A tankless heater typically requires a 3/4-inch line or larger, run directly from the meter. Starving the unit of fuel by using an undersized line will cause it to underperform, leading to lukewarm showers and error codes. Upgrading a gas line is a complex job that requires precise calculations and is best left to certified plumbing and heating professionals.

Making Electrical Errors

While it’s a gas appliance, your tankless water heater relies on a sophisticated electronic brain. The internal computer, flow sensors, and ignition system all need a stable source of power. These units require a dedicated 120-volt electrical circuit. You can't just plug it into the nearest available outlet, especially if that circuit is already powering other devices like a freezer or washing machine. Doing so can overload the circuit, causing breakers to trip constantly. More importantly, inconsistent power can damage the unit's sensitive electronics, leading to a costly repair that could have been easily avoided with proper wiring from the start.

Skipping Permits and Inspections

It might be tempting to bypass the paperwork, but this is a corner you should never cut. Any work involving a gas appliance requires a permit from your local municipality. This isn't just red tape; it's a critical safety measure. A permit ensures that a qualified inspector will visit your home to verify the installation was done correctly and meets all local building codes. Without that official sign-off, you could face major problems with your home insurance if there's ever a fire or flood. It can also create significant hurdles if you decide to sell your home down the road.

When to Call a Professional (And Why It's a Smart Move)

The satisfaction of completing a home project yourself is undeniable. But when it comes to installing a tankless water heater, the line between a rewarding DIY and a risky gamble is incredibly thin. This isn't like painting a room or assembling furniture; it's a complex job that involves your home's gas, electrical, and plumbing systems all at once. A single misstep with a gas line, a faulty electrical connection, or an improper vent can have serious consequences for your family's safety and your home's integrity.

Choosing to hire a professional isn't admitting defeat—it's making a smart, strategic decision to protect your investment and ensure the job is done right the first time. Certified technicians bring years of training, specialized diagnostic tools, and a deep understanding of local codes to every installation. They can perform the necessary calculations to properly size the unit for your home's needs, handle the intricate connections with precision, and ensure everything operates at peak performance and efficiency. When you weigh the potential dangers and hidden costs of a DIY mistake against the security of a professional job, bringing in an expert provides a level of peace of mind that a weekend project simply can't match.

If You Need Complex Gas Line Changes

One of the biggest differences between a traditional tank and a tankless water heater is its fuel demand. To heat water instantly, a gas tankless unit requires a much higher volume of natural gas, which often means your existing gas line is too small to keep up. Upgrading to a larger pipe isn't a simple swap. It involves precise calculations, proper sealing techniques, and a deep understanding of gas flow dynamics to prevent dangerous leaks. This is work that absolutely requires a certified professional. Our team includes Red Seal Plumbers and Class B Gasfitters who are licensed to perform this type of modification safely, ensuring your system is both powerful and secure.

To Ensure You Meet Local Codes

Every municipality in the Okanagan has specific building codes that govern the installation of gas appliances, and for good reason—they exist to keep you safe. These regulations cover everything from the type of venting required to the exact placement of the unit and the specifics of the electrical and plumbing connections. A professional installer is an expert on these local requirements and will manage the entire permitting and inspection process for you. This not only saves you from navigating complex regulations but also guarantees the work is fully compliant, preventing potential fines or issues if you decide to sell your home in the future.

To Protect Your Manufacturer's Warranty

A tankless water heater is a significant investment in your home's comfort and efficiency. The manufacturer's warranty is your primary protection for that investment, but it almost always comes with a critical condition: the unit must be installed by a licensed professional. If you install it yourself and something goes wrong, the manufacturer can void the warranty, leaving you responsible for the full cost of repairs or even a replacement. Hiring a certified technician ensures your unit is installed to the manufacturer's exact specifications, keeping your warranty valid. It’s a small price to pay for years of guaranteed performance and security, and with current rebates and offers, it's more affordable than you might think.

Breaking Down the Costs: DIY vs. Professional Installation

When you’re thinking about a new tankless water heater, the price tag is a big part of the conversation. It’s easy to see the cost of a unit at the hardware store and think doing it yourself is the clear winner for your wallet. But the upfront cost is only one piece of the puzzle. To make a smart decision for your home and family, it’s important to look at the full picture—from the initial purchase to the long-term value and safety of the installation. Let's break down what you can really expect to spend, both in dollars and in peace of mind.

The True Cost of a DIY Project

On the surface, a DIY installation seems like a great way to save money. You might see a tankless unit for around $1,200 and figure you’re already ahead. But the costs don't stop there. First, you'll need to purchase permits, which are required for this kind of work. Then, you have to account for the specialized tools and materials: new pipes, fittings, venting kits, and potentially tools you don't own. These expenses can add up fast. More importantly, many DIY projects hit a wall when it comes to the most critical parts—modifying gas lines and ensuring proper venting. These tasks require specific expertise and, if done incorrectly, are incredibly dangerous. You may end up having to call a professional to finish the job anyway, erasing your potential savings.

Investing in a Professional Installation

Hiring a professional team might seem like a bigger expense upfront, but it’s an investment in safety, quality, and your own peace of mind. A professional quote includes more than just the installation; it covers the cost of the unit, the safe removal and disposal of your old tank, all necessary parts and materials, and the expertise of certified technicians. At TruFinity, our Red Seal Plumbers and Class B Gasfitters handle every detail, from complex plumbing adjustments to ensuring your venting meets all safety codes. This approach protects your manufacturer's warranty, which can be voided by an improper DIY install. Plus, with current rebates and offers, the professional route can be more affordable than you think, giving you guaranteed results without the risk.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home and Family

Choosing how to install your new tankless water heater is a big decision that goes beyond saving a few dollars. It’s about ensuring the safety of your home and the well-being of your family. While tackling a home project yourself can be rewarding, some jobs involve risks that just aren’t worth taking. Working with gas lines, high-voltage electricity, and complex venting systems requires specialized knowledge and tools to prevent catastrophic failures like gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning. Your home is your biggest investment, and protecting it—and the people inside—should always be the top priority.

Opting for a professional installation is an investment in peace of mind. When you hire a certified technician, you’re not just paying for their time; you’re paying for their expertise, their adherence to strict safety codes, and the guarantee that the job is done right. A professional installation also protects your manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring your new, efficient unit is covered for its entire lifespan. Our team of Red Seal Plumbers and Class B Gasfitters handles every aspect of your water heater services, from the safe removal of your old tank to the precise calibration of your new one.

We understand that budget is a major factor in any home upgrade. That’s why we aim to make professional service accessible and transparent. With upfront pricing and flexible financing options, you know exactly what to expect. Plus, taking advantage of current rebates and offers, like our $500 discount on tankless water heater installations, can make the safe choice the easy choice. Ultimately, you’re choosing a reliable, long-term solution that provides endless hot water and protects what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really that much cheaper to install a tankless water heater myself? While the initial price tag of the unit itself might seem manageable, a DIY installation often comes with a lot of hidden costs. You'll need to buy specialized tools, a venting kit, and specific service valves that don't come in the box. You also have to factor in the cost of a municipal permit. The biggest financial risk, however, comes from potential mistakes. A small leak can lead to thousands in water damage, and an improper connection could force you to call a professional to fix the work, erasing any initial savings.

Why is the gas line upgrade so important for a tankless heater? Think of it this way: your old tank heater sipped gas slowly all day to keep water warm, but a tankless heater needs to gulp a large amount of gas instantly to heat water on demand. Your home's existing gas line is almost always too small to provide that much fuel that quickly. Using an undersized line will starve the unit for fuel, causing it to perform poorly or shut down with an error code. More importantly, modifying gas lines is a job that requires a certified gasfitter to ensure it's done without any dangerous leaks.

Will I actually void my warranty if I do the installation myself? In almost every case, yes. Tankless water heater manufacturers have very specific installation requirements to ensure their units run safely and efficiently. To protect their product and you, they require the installation to be completed by a licensed and certified technician. If an issue arises and the manufacturer sees it was a DIY install, they are very likely to deny the warranty claim, leaving you to cover the full cost of any repairs or replacements.

How long does a professional installation usually take? A standard tankless water heater installation is typically a full-day job for a professional team. This timeframe includes the safe draining and removal of your old tank, mounting the new unit, running new plumbing and gas lines, installing the proper venting system through an exterior wall, and completing all the final electrical connections. The day finishes with a thorough series of tests to ensure everything is working perfectly and safely before we leave.

What kind of maintenance does a tankless water heater need after it's installed? The most important maintenance for a tankless unit is a periodic flush to remove mineral buildup. Here in the Okanagan, our water can be quite hard, and those minerals can coat the inside of the heat exchanger over time, reducing its efficiency. We recommend having a professional flush the system annually to keep it running at peak performance. This simple service protects your investment and helps ensure your heater lasts for its full 20-year lifespan.

Can I Install a Tankless Water Heater Myself? Read This First