If you’ve ever had your hot shower turn ice-cold halfway through, you know how frustrating it can be. For many Houston homeowners, that moment is what finally pushes them to switch to a tankless water heater — a system that heats water on demand and keeps it flowing for as long as you need.
At John Moore Services, we’ve installed hundreds of these units across Houston homes — and every time, the reaction is the same: “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Snapshot: Houston’s Take on Tankless Water Heaters
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Average Lifespan | 18–20 years (with regular maintenance) |
| Typical Cost (Installed) | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Energy Efficiency | Up to 30% less energy use than traditional heaters |
| Best Suited For | Families needing consistent hot water and lower bills |
| Local Insight | Perfect for Houston’s large homes and high water demand |
Why More Houston Homes Are Going Tankless
When we talk to homeowners about tankless systems, the conversation almost always starts with one word: convenience.
Traditional water heaters store a large amount of water in a tank, constantly reheating it — even when no one’s home. Tankless systems do the opposite: they heat water only when you turn on the tap. That means no wasted energy and no running out of hot water.
But there’s more to love:
- Continuous Hot Water for the Whole Family
Morning showers, laundry, and the dishwasher can all run at once without the dreaded “cold shock.” For large households in Houston, this makes a huge difference in comfort and scheduling. - Smaller, Smarter, and Space-Saving
Because tankless systems mount on the wall, they free up floor space — especially useful in Houston homes with compact utility rooms. - Lower Utility Bills
Tankless heaters use less energy because they don’t keep a full tank hot all day. This saves homeowners hundreds annually. - Longer System Life
Traditional tanks last 10–12 years, but tankless units run 18–20 years with proper care — nearly double the lifespan.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY a Tankless Water Heater Installation
Every once in a while, we meet a Houston homeowner who tried a DIY tankless installation after watching YouTube videos. Nearly every time, we get a call halfway through.
Tankless systems involve precise plumbing, venting, and gas/electrical connections. A small mistake can cause leaks, inefficiency, or dangerous situations.
Here’s What a Professional Plumber Brings to the Job
- Code Compliance: Proper permits and Houston’s plumbing regulations.
- Proper Sizing: Ensures your system matches your home’s hot water demand.
- Safety First: Licensed experts handle gas, electricity, and water safely.
- Warranty Protection: DIY installs can void manufacturer warranties.
Hiring a professional gives you peace of mind that your system will run safely from day one.
How We Help You Choose the Right Tankless System
When you call John Moore Services, we start with questions about your household.
How many bathrooms? How often do you use hot water? What’s your daily routine like?
These details help us calculate your needed flow rate. Larger Houston homes often need higher-capacity models or multiple units.
We consider:
- Your fuel type (gas or electric)
- Temperature rise requirements
- Available space
We don’t just install the system — we match it to your home.
What a Professional Tankless Installation Looks Like
Here’s the typical step-by-step process:
- Shut Off Water, Gas, and Power
- Remove the Old Unit
- Prepare the Site
- Mount the Tankless Unit
- Connect Water and Gas Lines
- Vent the System
- Power Up and Test
- Set Temperature and Walkthrough
By the end, you have endless hot water and a reliable, long-lasting system.
Keeping Your Tankless Water Heater in Top Shape
Tankless systems need annual maintenance — especially in Houston’s hard water.
During maintenance, we:
- Flush out calcium buildup
- Clean filters and air intakes
- Test the pressure relief valve
- Check gas and electrical connections
Annual service keeps your system efficient and protects your warranty.
FAQs About Tankless Water Heaters
How long does installation take?
Most installations take 4–6 hours depending on your plumbing layout.
Can any home switch to a tankless system?
Yes. Older homes may need minor plumbing or electrical upgrades.
How often should I flush the system?
Once a year — especially in Houston’s hard water conditions.
Do tankless systems work with well water?
Yes, but they require extra filtration due to mineral content.
Are they safe for small homes or condos?
Absolutely — tankless units are compact, efficient, and ideal for tight spaces.
