Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Install: DIY Guide

Tired of lukewarm showers and energy bills that make your eyes water? Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater. And if you're short on indoor space, an outdoor installation might be the perfect solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of outdoor tankless water heater installation, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this DIY project safely and effectively. We'll cover everything from planning and preparation to installation steps and essential safety precautions, empowering homeowners to improve their home's efficiency and comfort.

Is an Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

Before diving into the installation process, let's consider whether an outdoor tankless water heater is the right choice for your home. The main advantage is space saving. Since tankless heaters are compact, mounting one outside frees up valuable room inside your house. They can also be more energy efficient, heating water only when needed and eliminating standby heat loss associated with traditional tank heaters. However, outdoor units are exposed to the elements, potentially requiring additional weather protection and freeze prevention measures.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Installation

• Pros:

• Space Saving: Frees up indoor space.

• Energy Efficiency: Heats water on demand.

• Potentially Lower Installation Costs: Easier access to utilities in some cases.

• Cons:

• Weather Exposure: Requires weatherproofing and freeze protection.

• Potential Security Concerns: Must be properly secured to prevent theft.

• Limited Model Availability: Fewer outdoor-rated models compared to indoor units.

Understanding Local Codes and Regulations

Before you even think about picking up a wrench, check your local building codes and regulations. Many municipalities have specific requirements for outdoor tankless water heater installation, including permitting, venting, and gas line specifications. Failing to comply can result in fines or even forced removal of the unit. Contact your local building department to obtain the necessary permits and ensure your installation meets all applicable standards. This often involves submitting detailed plans and undergoing inspections. Don't skip this crucial step!

Planning and Preparation: Your DIY Foundation

Successful DIY projects start with careful planning. This section covers the essential steps to prepare for your outdoor tankless water heater installation.

Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater

Selecting the right tankless water heater is paramount. Consider the following factors:

• Flow Rate: Determine your household's hot water demand. Calculate the peak flow rate by adding up the flow rates of all fixtures you might use simultaneously (e.g., showers, faucets, dishwasher). Choose a unit that can handle this peak demand.

• Fuel Type: Tankless heaters can run on natural gas or propane. Select the fuel type that's available at your home. Note that propane units typically require larger gas lines due to the higher BTU output.

• Energy Efficiency: Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings. The higher the EF, the more efficient the unit and the lower your energy bills.

• Outdoor Rating: Ensure the unit is specifically designed and rated for outdoor use. This means it has built-in protection against weather elements.

• Brand Reputation: Research different brands and read reviews to find a reliable and durable unit.

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

Having the right tools and materials on hand will save you time and frustration. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Tankless Water Heater: Obviously! Make sure it is the model you’ve researched and is rated for outdoor use.

• Mounting Bracket: Typically included with the unit, but verify.

• Gas Line: New gas line of appropriate diameter (check manufacturer specifications and local codes). Use black iron pipe or approved flexible gas lines.

• Gas Line Fittings: Unions, elbows, tees, and shut-off valve.

• Water Pipes: Copper, PEX, or CPVC pipes and fittings.

• Water Shut-Off Valves: For both cold water inlet and hot water outlet.

• Pressure Relief Valve: Required for safety.

• Pipe Insulation: To prevent freezing.

• Vent Pipe (if required): Some models require venting even for outdoor installation.

• Drill: With appropriate drill bits for mounting.

• Pipe Cutter: For cutting copper, PEX, or CPVC pipes.

• Pipe Wrench: For tightening gas line fittings.

• Adjustable Wrench: For various plumbing connections.

• Screwdrivers: Phillips and flathead.

• Level: To ensure proper mounting.

• Tape Measure: For accurate measurements.

• Thread Sealant (Pipe Dope): For gas line connections.

• Teflon Tape: For water line connections.

• Multimeter: To test electrical connections (if applicable).

• Safety Glasses: Essential for eye protection.

• Work Gloves: To protect your hands.

• Leak Detector Solution: To check for gas leaks.

Preparing the Installation Location

Choose a location that is easily accessible for maintenance and repairs. Ensure there is adequate clearance around the unit for proper ventilation and servicing. The location should also be protected from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions. A partially covered area is ideal.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Now, let's get to the actual installation. Remember safety first! Shut off the gas and water supply before starting any work.

Mounting the Tankless Water Heater

• Locate Studs: Find the wall studs using a stud finder.

• Attach Mounting Bracket: Securely attach the mounting bracket to the studs using appropriate screws.

• Mount the Unit: Carefully lift the tankless water heater and mount it onto the bracket. Ensure it is level.

Connecting the Gas Line

WARNING: This step involves working with natural gas or propane. If you are not comfortable working with gas lines, hire a qualified professional.

• Shut Off Gas Supply: Double-check that the gas supply is completely shut off.

• Connect Gas Line: Connect the gas line to the heater's gas inlet using the appropriate fittings. Use thread sealant on all gas line connections.

• Install Shut-Off Valve: Install a shut-off valve upstream of the heater for easy maintenance.

• Test for Leaks: After making all connections, turn on the gas supply and use leak detector solution to check for leaks. If you find any leaks, immediately shut off the gas and tighten the fittings.

Connecting the Water Lines

• Shut Off Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to your home.

• Connect Water Lines: Connect the cold water inlet and hot water outlet to the heater using appropriate pipes and fittings. Use Teflon tape on all water line connections.

• Install Shut-Off Valves: Install shut-off valves on both the cold water inlet and hot water outlet.

• Install Pressure Relief Valve: Install a pressure relief valve on the hot water outlet.

Electrical Connections (If Applicable)

Some tankless water heaters require electrical connections for ignition or other functions.

• Turn Off Breaker: Turn off the breaker that supplies power to the heater.

• Connect Wiring: Connect the wiring according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Test Connections: Use a multimeter to test the connections before turning on the breaker.

Venting (If Required)

Some outdoor tankless water heaters require venting, even though they are installed outdoors. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific venting requirements. Use the appropriate vent pipe and fittings.

Post-Installation and Testing

After completing the installation, it's time to test the system and ensure everything is working properly.

Flushing the System

Flush the system to remove any debris or air from the pipes. Open the cold water inlet valve and let the water run through the heater until it runs clear.

Testing the Water Heater

Turn on the gas and water supply. Turn on a hot water faucet and wait for the water to heat up. Check for any leaks around the connections.

Setting the Temperature

Set the desired water temperature according to the manufacturer's instructions. A temperature of 120°F is generally recommended to prevent scalding.

Essential Safety Precautions

Safety should always be your top priority when working on DIY projects, especially when dealing with gas and electricity.

• Turn Off Utilities: Always turn off the gas and water supply before starting any work.

• Wear Safety Gear: Wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself.

• Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Check for Leaks: Use leak detector solution to check for gas leaks.

• Hire a Professional: If you are not comfortable with any part of the installation process, hire a qualified professional.

Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your tankless water heater and ensure it operates efficiently.

• Flush Annually: Flush the system annually to remove mineral buildup.

• Inspect Vent Pipe: Regularly inspect the vent pipe for any damage or blockages.

• Clean Burner: Clean the burner annually to remove any debris.

• Protect from Freezing: In cold climates, take steps to protect the unit from freezing. This may include insulating the pipes or installing a freeze protection kit.

An outdoor tankless water heater can be a great addition to your home, offering space-saving convenience and energy efficiency. By following this complete guides for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, you can confidently tackle the tankless water heater outdoor installation process. Remember to prioritize safety, adhere to local codes, and perform regular maintenance to keep your system running smoothly for years to come. Ready to take the plunge and enjoy endless hot water? Start planning your installation today, and consider consulting with a professional if you have any concerns or encounter difficulties.