Best Tankless Water Heater Service Companies in Nebraska Ranked

Switching to a tankless water heater in Nebraska can provide endless hot water and improved energy efficiency for your home. This guide explains the key considerations for installing or repairing an on-demand system, from choosing the right fuel type to navigating local codes. You can use this information to understand the process and connect with qualified local professionals for your project.

Thermal Services

13330 I St, Omaha, NE 68137

Thermal Services has been providing heating, cooling, and plumbing solutions in Omaha, NE, and the surrounding metro area since 1968. They offer a range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, tankless water heater services, water softener installation, drain cleaning, and gas line installation. Their licensed technicians handle both residential and commercial needs, with emergency HVAC services available at consistent rates regardless of time or day. With over 55 years of experience, Thermal Services supports the Omaha community with reliable expertise and comprehensive care plans.

4.9

2.2k Reviews

McIntosh Plumbing

110 S 18th St, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

McIntosh Plumbing is a licensed plumbing service provider based in Omaha, NE, offering a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing solutions. Their services include water heater repair and installation, tankless water heater servicing, water softener installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, and garbage disposal repair. They provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues promptly. McIntosh Plumbing stands behind their work with a one-year workmanship warranty, ensuring quality and reliability for their customers.

4.9

165 Reviews

bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of West Omaha

9854 M St, Omaha, NE 68127

Bluefrog Plumbing and Drain of West Omaha provides plumbing services in Omaha, NE, including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, leak detection, and gas line installation. They specialize in hydro jetting to clear stubborn clogs and offer emergency plumbing services available 24/7. Their certified plumbers use advanced technology to identify and repair leaks, ensuring safe and effective solutions. Bluefrog also offers same-day service and proactive plumbing inspections to help prevent future issues.

4.9

114 Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

532 1st Ave #69, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup offers a wide range of plumbing services in Omaha, NE, and the greater Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. They serve both residential and commercial clients with services including drain cleaning, water heater repair and installation, sewer line repair, leak detection, gas line installation, and emergency flood and water damage cleanup. The company uses advanced techniques such as hydro jetting and trenchless sewer repair to address various plumbing issues. Established in 1935, Roto-Rooter provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services to handle urgent situations any time of day or night.

4.8

1.1k Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

11515 S 39th St #103, Bellevue, NE 68123

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides comprehensive plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services in Omaha, NE. They serve both residential and commercial clients, addressing issues such as sewer line repair, water heater installation and repair, leak detection, and hydro jetting. Their team uses advanced equipment and techniques, including trenchless sewer repair technology, to handle complex plumbing challenges. The company offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to manage urgent situations like sewer backups and burst pipes. Roto-Rooter is fully licensed and insured, serving Omaha and surrounding counties in Nebraska and Iowa.

4.8

665 Reviews

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Understanding Tankless Water Heater Options

The first major decision is choosing between a gas or electric tankless water heater. Each has distinct advantages and installation requirements that impact your home's plumbing, electrical, and venting systems.

Gas-Powered Units (Natural Gas or Propane): These are the most common and powerful type, ideal for larger households with simultaneous hot water demands, like running a shower and dishwasher at the same time ^{1 2}. They require a dedicated gas line and proper venting to the outdoors. A key consideration is that your existing gas line may need to be upgraded to a larger diameter to supply the higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) demand of a tankless unit ^{1 3}. Venting for gas models must use specific high-temperature PVC or stainless steel materials and follow strict safety clearances ^{1 4}.

Electric-Powered Units: Electric tankless heaters are often easier to install in terms of space and venting, as they do not require exhaust flues ^{1 5}. However, they have a high electrical demand. Installing one often requires upgrading your home's electrical service panel and installing new, high-amperage dedicated circuits ^{2 5}. They are typically better suited for smaller homes or point-of-use applications, like a single bathroom or kitchen sink.

The Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Overview

Professional installation is crucial for safety, efficiency, and compliance with Nebraska building codes. Here's a general overview of what the process entails:

1. Assessment & Permitting: A licensed professional will assess your home's needs, help size the unit correctly, and obtain the necessary plumbing and mechanical permits from your local municipality (e.g., Omaha, Lincoln) ^{1 2 3}.
2. Removal of Old Heater: The existing tank water heater is safely disconnected, drained, and removed from the premises ^{6 7}.
3. Mounting the New Unit: The compact tankless unit is securely mounted on an interior or exterior wall, following manufacturer and code clearances ^{4 6}.
4. Connecting Utilities: Water lines (using PEX or copper) are connected. For gas units, the gas line is connected, which may involve installing a new, larger line. For electric units, a licensed electrician runs the required high-voltage circuits ^{1 2 3}.
5. Venting (Gas Models): A proper venting system is installed, terminating through a sidewall or roof to safely exhaust combustion gases ^{1 4 6}.
6. Testing & Inspection: The system is thoroughly tested for leaks, proper ignition, and safe operation. A final inspection by the local building department is often required to close the permit ^{6 7}.

Nebraska Codes and Key Requirements

Adhering to state and local codes is non-negotiable. Nebraska follows the International Residential Code (IRC), which includes specific mandates for water heater installations ⁴.

• Permits: Always required. Your contractor will typically pull these, ensuring the work is planned to code from the start ^{1 3}.
• Location & Clearances: The IRC specifies minimum clearances from combustibles and access for service. Tankless units must be installed in locations that allow for proper combustion air and venting ⁴.
• Venting Specifications: Gas tankless water heaters have strict venting requirements outlined in the IRC and manufacturer instructions. Using incorrect materials or improper termination can create serious safety hazards ^{1 4}.
• Gas Line Sizing: The existing gas line to a traditional tank heater is often insufficient. A professional will calculate the required BTU load and install a correctly sized gas line to ensure adequate fuel supply ^{3 5}.
• Electrical Requirements: Electric models demand significant power. The National Electrical Code (NEC), adopted in Nebraska, dictates proper wire gauge, conduit, and circuit breaker sizing. This often necessitates a service panel upgrade ^{2 5}.

Cost Considerations for Nebraska Homeowners

The total cost of a tankless water heater installation in Nebraska varies widely based on the unit type, your home's existing infrastructure, and labor. Here's a general breakdown:

• Total Installation Cost: A full professional installation typically ranges from $2,400 to $5,400 or more ^{1 8}. The high end reflects complex jobs requiring major gas line upgrades, new electrical service, or difficult venting runs.
• Unit Cost: The tankless heater itself can range from $250 for a basic electric point-of-use model to over $3,600 for a high-output whole-house gas unit ^{8 9}. Powerful gas models are generally more expensive than electric ones.
• Labor & Installation: Professional labor for the plumbing, gas fitting, and coordination with an electrician can range from $650 to $1,300+, depending on the job's complexity and local labor rates ^{8 10}.
• Additional Costs: Be prepared for potential upgrade costs:
  • Gas Line Upgrade: $500 - $2,000+
  • Electrical Panel/Service Upgrade: $1,200 - $3,000+
  • New Venting System: $300 - $1,000+

Maintenance and Common Repairs

To protect your investment, regular maintenance is essential, especially in Nebraska areas with hard water, like Omaha and Lincoln.

• Primary Maintenance Task: Annual Flushing. Descaling or flushing the unit with a vinegar or mild acid solution removes mineral buildup (scale) that can reduce efficiency, cause overheating, and lead to failure ¹. This is a critical service that professionals provide.
• Common Repair Issues:
  • Mineral Buildup: The most frequent cause of problems, leading to error codes, reduced flow, and inefficiency ¹.
  • Ignition Failure: In gas units, a faulty igniter or gas valve can prevent the burner from lighting.
  • Sensor Issues: Flow sensors or temperature sensors can fail, causing the unit not to activate or to deliver incorrect water temperatures.
  • Burner or Heat Exchanger Problems: These are more serious repairs often related to scale or combustion issues.

Frequently asked questions

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