A Guide to AO Smith Electric Tankless Water Heater Installation

So, you have your new A.O. Smith unit, and you’re ready for endless hot water. Now what? The path from the box to your wall can seem complicated, especially when you’re dealing with both high-voltage wiring and your home’s main water lines. A successful A.O. Smith electric tankless water heater installation requires careful planning, the right tools, and a strong focus on safety. In the sections ahead, we’ll walk you through each critical phase of the project. You’ll learn how to pick the perfect spot, what it takes to mount the unit securely, and how to handle the plumbing and electrical connections. This guide will give you the confidence to understand the process from start to finish.

Key Takeaways

• Confirm Your Home Can Handle the Power: Electric tankless units require significant electrical upgrades, including dedicated circuits and potentially a new panel. A professional assessment is the essential first step to ensure your system can safely support the new appliance.
• Get the Installation Details Right: Proper installation goes beyond connecting pipes. It means securely mounting the unit with adequate clearance for ventilation and adding key components like isolation valves to make future maintenance simple and safe.
• Rely on a Professional for Safety and Peace of Mind: Installing a tankless water heater involves complex electrical and plumbing work. Hiring a licensed professional is the best way to ensure the job is done correctly, complies with all codes, and keeps your manufacturer’s warranty intact.

Why Choose an A.O. Smith Electric Tankless Water Heater?

If you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s water heater, an A.O. Smith electric tankless model is a fantastic option to consider. These units are a major step up from the bulky, traditional tanks you might be used to. They offer a modern solution that delivers on efficiency, convenience, and long-term value. From saving space in your utility closet to providing an endless supply of hot water for your family, there are some serious perks. Let’s walk through exactly why one of these systems might be the perfect fit for your Fort Collins home and how our team can help with your water heater needs.

Save Energy and Money

One of the biggest draws of a tankless water heater is its impact on your utility bills. Unlike a traditional tank that constantly uses energy to keep a large volume of water hot, an A.O. Smith electric tankless unit heats water only when you turn on the tap. This on-demand approach is incredibly efficient. In fact, these smaller units can be 24% to 34% more energy-efficient than their tank-style counterparts. Over time, that efficiency translates directly into lower energy costs, leaving more money in your pocket each month. It’s a smart upgrade that pays for itself.

Enjoy a Compact, Space-Saving Design

Tired of that giant water tank taking up precious real estate in your closet, basement, or garage? An A.O. Smith electric tankless water heater can help you reclaim that space. These units feature a sleek, compact design that’s a fraction of the size of a conventional heater. Because they don’t need to store water, they can be easily mounted on a wall, getting them up and out of the way. This frees up valuable floor space for storage or other uses, making them an ideal solution for homes of any size, from cozy bungalows to larger family houses.

Get On-Demand, Endless Hot Water

There’s nothing worse than being the last one in the family to shower and getting hit with a blast of cold water. With a properly sized A.O. Smith tankless unit, that becomes a problem of the past. Since the system heats water as it flows through, it doesn’t have a limited supply stored in a tank. This means you get a continuous, on-demand stream of hot water for as long as you need it. Whether you’re filling a soaking tub, running the dishwasher, and doing laundry all at once, you won’t run out—as long as the unit is correctly sized for your household’s demands.

Count on Long-Lasting Performance

A water heater is a significant investment, so you want one that’s built to last. A.O. Smith electric tankless water heaters are known for their durability, often lasting 20 years or more with proper care—much longer than the typical 10- to 15-year lifespan of a tank heater. Many models also come equipped with advanced features like X3® Scale Prevention Technology, which protects the unit from damaging mineral buildup. This not only extends the heater’s life but can also save you significant money on maintenance costs over the years, making it a reliable and cost-effective choice for the long haul.

What Are the Electrical Requirements for Installation?

Switching to an electric tankless water heater is a fantastic move for on-demand hot water, but it’s not a simple plug-and-play appliance. These units are powerful and have specific electrical needs that are crucial for safe and effective operation. Before you even think about mounting the unit on the wall, you need to make sure your home’s electrical system is up to the task. Getting this part right is non-negotiable, as it prevents tripped breakers, protects the heater from damage, and, most importantly, keeps your home safe. Think of it as building a strong foundation—without it, the whole project is at risk. Let’s walk through the key electrical requirements you need to address.

Check Your Electrical Panel’s Capacity

First things first: take a look at your home’s main electrical panel. An electric tankless water heater requires a substantial amount of power, and your panel needs to have enough capacity to handle the extra load. Many homes, especially older ones, have 100-amp or 150-amp service, which might already be close to maxed out by your other appliances. An A.O. Smith tankless model can require two or three dedicated 40- or 50-amp circuits, which can easily overwhelm an older panel. If your panel doesn’t have the available amperage, you’ll need an upgrade. A professional can assess your current electrical load and determine if your panel is sufficient. This is a critical first step in any water heater installation.

Plan for Circuit Breaker and Wire Upgrades

Beyond the main panel’s capacity, the specific circuits that power the heater are just as important. Your new tankless unit can’t share a circuit with other appliances; it needs its own dedicated circuits. This means running new, heavy-gauge wires directly from the panel to the unit’s location. The wire thickness and the amperage of the circuit breakers must match the manufacturer’s specifications precisely. Using wiring that’s too thin or breakers that are improperly sized is a serious fire hazard. You can find the exact requirements in the A.O. Smith installation guide for your specific model, but this is a job best left to a qualified electrician who understands the technical demands.

Ensure GFCI Protection and Code Compliance

Safety and compliance are the final pieces of the electrical puzzle. Because you’re dealing with a high-power electrical appliance that handles water, following all local and national electrical codes is mandatory. This isn’t just about following rules—it’s about preventing electrical shock and ensuring your installation is safe for your family. Many local codes require Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection for this type of installation, which provides an extra layer of safety by shutting off power if it detects a fault. A professional installer will ensure every connection is up to code, which not only keeps you safe but also protects your manufacturer’s warranty. If you have any questions about code compliance, it’s always best to contact a professional.

What Plumbing Requirements Should You Consider?

Once you’ve sorted out the electrical side of things, it’s time to focus on the plumbing. Getting the water connections right is just as crucial for making sure your new A.O. Smith tankless water heater works perfectly. Proper plumbing not only ensures a steady flow of hot water but also makes future maintenance much simpler and protects your unit from potential damage. Taking the time to address key details like valves and water pressure will save you from headaches down the road. If you’re ever unsure about these steps, our team is always ready to help with professional water heater services in the Fort Collins area.

Install Isolation and Manual Shutoff Valves

Before you connect any water lines, it’s a great idea to install isolation and manual shutoff valves. These components are your best friends when it comes to maintenance or emergencies. An isolation valve lets you stop the water flow directly to and from the heater without shutting off water to your entire house. This makes tasks like flushing the unit or handling a minor repair incredibly straightforward. A manual shutoff valve provides an immediate way to cut the water supply in an emergency, giving you total control and peace of mind. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in managing your home’s plumbing system.

Meet Pressure Relief Valve Standards

Safety first! A pressure relief valve (PRV) is a non-negotiable safety device for any water heater. This small but mighty valve is designed to automatically release water if the pressure inside the unit gets too high, preventing a potentially dangerous situation. Most tankless water heater installations require a PRV rated for 150 psi. Additionally, it’s important to know your home’s water pressure. If it’s above 80 psi, you’ll also need to install a pressure-reducing valve. This protects your new tankless heater from the strain of high pressure, which can cause damage over time and shorten its lifespan.

Check Your Home’s Water Pressure

Speaking of water pressure, you should check it before you even start the installation. Consistently high water pressure can wreak havoc on your plumbing fixtures and appliances, and your new tankless water heater is no exception. You can buy a simple pressure gauge at a hardware store to test it yourself at an outdoor spigot. As mentioned, if the reading is over 80 psi, installing a pressure-reducing valve is the best course of action. This ensures the water entering your heater is within the safe operating range recommended by the A.O. Smith installation guide. It’s a proactive measure that protects your investment.

Gather Your Tools and Materials for Installation

Getting a project done right starts with having the right supplies on hand. Before you begin the installation of your A.O. Smith water heater, taking a little time to gather all your tools and materials will make the process much smoother. This preparation helps you avoid stress and last-minute trips to the hardware store, ensuring you can move through each step efficiently and safely. Let’s walk through exactly what you’ll need to have ready.

Electrical Supplies

Electric tankless water heaters are powerful, and that means they have specific electrical needs. First, take a look at your home’s electrical panel. These units require a significant amount of power, so you need to confirm your panel has enough capacity to handle the additional load. In many cases, you’ll need to install new, dedicated circuits just for the water heater. This often involves adding larger breakers and running thicker gauge wires from the panel to the unit’s location. Properly handling the electrical components is non-negotiable for a safe and functional installation.

Plumbing Parts and Fittings

For the plumbing side of things, you’ll need more than just the heater itself. Make sure you have the correct pipes and fittings for the connections. Key components include isolation valves, a manual shutoff valve, and a pressure relief valve. The isolation valves are especially important—they allow you to shut off water directly to the unit for future maintenance, like descaling, without turning off water to your whole house. Having the right water heater parts ensures everything connects securely and functions as it should, preventing leaks and making upkeep much easier down the road.

Your Basic Tool Kit

You don’t need a professional workshop, but a solid basic tool kit is essential. You’ll want to have a drill, a level, pipe cutters, adjustable wrenches, and a set of screwdrivers. Safety gear, like gloves and safety glasses, is also a must. The unit needs to be mounted on a flat, solid surface; if you’re installing on drywall, a 3/4-inch thick piece of plywood secured to the wall studs is a great way to create a stable base. Having these tools ready will help you tackle each step of the plumbing installation with confidence.

How to Stay Safe During Installation

Installing a new water heater involves working with both your home’s electrical and plumbing systems, which means safety has to be your number one priority. A successful installation isn’t just about getting hot water—it’s about ensuring the unit operates safely for years to come. Taking shortcuts or overlooking safety checks can lead to serious risks, from electrical shocks to major water damage. Before you even pick up a tool, it’s essential to understand the proper safety protocols. Following these steps will protect you, your family, and your home from potential hazards. If at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable with a step, it’s always best to pause and call in a professional.

Shut Off the Power and Practice Electrical Safety

Before you do anything else, you must shut off the power. As A.O. Smith’s own guides emphasize, you should always turn off the main service breaker to your electrical panel before working inside it. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a critical step to prevent serious injury. Once the breaker is off, use a voltage tester on the wires you’ll be handling to confirm there is no live current. Double-checking ensures your safety. Remember to wear safety glasses and use insulated tools when working with any wiring. Handling your home’s electrical system can be intimidating, and if you have any doubts, it’s always the right call to get professional water heater services.

Understand When to Call a Pro

While a DIY project can be rewarding, some jobs are best left to the experts. It’s very important to have a qualified professional install tankless water heaters. A licensed plumber ensures the installation is done safely, follows all local and national building codes, and protects your warranty. Attempting to install it yourself without the right expertise can be dangerous and may void your A.O. Smith warranty. An improper installation can lead to electrical hazards or plumbing failures down the road. If you’re not completely confident in your ability to manage both the electrical and plumbing requirements, it’s time to contact a professional. We can make sure the job is done right the first time.

Prevent and Check for Leaks

Once your unit is mounted and the electrical work is done, the final safety check involves your plumbing connections. After connecting everything, you must carefully check all water lines for leaks before turning the system on. Even a tiny drip can lead to significant water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs over time. Use plumber’s tape on all threaded connections to create a secure seal. Once the water is turned back on, inspect every joint and fitting for any signs of moisture. If you spot a leak, turn the water off immediately and tighten the connection. A thorough leak check is a non-negotiable final step for a safe and reliable installation.

Your Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, you’ve got your new A.O. Smith unit, and you’re ready to get it up and running. This guide will walk you through the key steps of the installation process. While some homeowners with advanced DIY skills might tackle this project, remember that working with high-voltage electricity and plumbing can be risky. When in doubt, it’s always smartest to call in a professional. A proper installation ensures your unit runs efficiently and safely for years to come, giving you that endless hot water you’ve been looking forward to without any of the headaches. Following these steps carefully will set you up for success, but never hesitate to put the tools down and call for backup if you feel out of your depth.

Step 1: Prep and Pick the Perfect Spot

First things first, let’s find the best home for your new water heater. The ideal location is close to the points of use you’ll frequent most, like the kitchen sink or primary bathroom shower. For whole-house models, a central location is your best bet to minimize the time it takes for hot water to travel through your pipes. This reduces energy waste and gets you hot water faster. Make sure the spot is indoors, dry, and protected from freezing temperatures. Planning the right placement is a crucial first step for any water heater service and sets the stage for a smooth installation.

Step 2: Mount the Unit with Proper Clearance

Once you’ve picked your spot, it’s time to mount the unit. Your tankless water heater needs to be securely fastened to a solid surface, like wall studs or a piece of plywood anchored to the studs. Drywall alone won’t cut it. It’s also critical to leave enough space around the unit for proper ventilation and future maintenance. A.O. Smith generally recommends about 8 to 15 inches of clearance on all sides, but always check your specific model’s manual. This breathing room ensures the unit doesn’t overheat and allows a technician easy access for any plumbing repairs or check-ups down the road.

Step 3: Connect the Electrical Wiring

This is the part of the installation where extreme caution is necessary. Electric tankless water heaters require a significant amount of power, which often means you’ll need a dedicated circuit with larger breakers and thicker gauge wiring. You must turn off the power at the main breaker before you begin. If your home’s electrical panel isn’t up to the task, you’ll need to upgrade it. Because of the high voltage and potential risks, we strongly recommend having a licensed professional handle this step. If you’re unsure about your home’s wiring, please contact a professional to ensure everything is done safely and up to code.

Step 4: Hook Up the Water Lines

Now it’s time to connect the plumbing. You’ll be hooking up the cold water inlet and the hot water outlet. It’s essential to install isolation valves on both lines, which allow you to shut off water directly to the unit for maintenance without cutting it off to the whole house. You’ll also need to install a pressure relief valve for safety. We also suggest adding a thermostatic mixing valve, which helps prevent scalding by blending hot and cold water to a safe, consistent temperature. These components are key to a safe and functional water heater installation.

Step 5: Test the System and Turn It On

You’re almost there! Before you flip the breaker back on, it’s time for a thorough leak check. Slowly turn the water on and carefully inspect all your connections and fittings for any drips. Take your time with this step—even a tiny leak can cause major damage over time. Once you’re confident that all the connections are secure and watertight, you can restore power to the unit. Run a hot water tap and let the system flush out any air in the lines. If you spot any issues, it’s best to call for a professional plumbing service to take a look.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Installing a new water heater is an exciting upgrade, but a few common missteps can turn your project into a major headache. Getting the details right from the start ensures your unit runs safely and efficiently for years. Let’s walk through the most frequent installation mistakes so you can sidestep them completely.

Not Preparing Your Electrical System

One of the biggest hurdles with an electric tankless water heater is underestimating its power needs. These units are electrical workhorses, with larger models drawing up to 133 amps. That’s a significant load, and most standard home electrical panels aren’t equipped to handle it without upgrades. Failing to prepare your system can lead to constantly tripped breakers, poor performance, or even serious safety risks. Before you begin, it’s essential to have a professional assess your panel, wiring, and breakers to see what upgrades are needed to support your new water heater safely.

Incorrect Mounting and Spacing

Where and how you mount your tankless unit matters more than you might think. These heaters are heavy, and drywall anchors simply won’t cut it. The unit must be securely fastened to a solid surface, like wall studs or a sturdy piece of plywood, to prevent it from falling. Just as important is giving it enough room to breathe. You’ll need to leave at least 8 to 15 inches of clearance on all sides—top, bottom, left, and right. This space isn’t just for show; it ensures proper ventilation and gives a technician enough room to perform maintenance or repairs down the road.

Skipping a Professional Assessment

I get it—the urge to DIY and save a little money is strong. However, installing a tankless water heater is one of those jobs where calling a professional is the smartest move. A licensed plumber ensures the entire installation meets local and national building codes, which is non-negotiable for your family’s safety. An improper installation can also void your manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you on the hook for expensive repairs. More importantly, mistakes involving electricity and water can lead to dangerous situations. A professional plumbing assessment guarantees the job is done right, giving you total peace of mind.

How to Maintain Your New Tankless Water Heater

Now that your A.O. Smith tankless water heater is up and running, a little routine maintenance will go a long way. Taking care of your unit ensures it performs efficiently and lasts for its full lifespan, giving you reliable hot water for years to come. Think of it as simple upkeep that protects your investment. The two most important things you can do are to clean the unit regularly to prevent mineral buildup and to have a professional look it over once a year.

Descale and Clean the Filter Regularly

Over time, minerals from your water supply can build up inside your tankless heater, especially if you have hard water. This buildup can reduce water flow and make the unit work harder than it needs to. To prevent this, you should regularly clean the water inlet filter. Simply remove the filter from its housing and rinse it under cold water to clear away any sediment. For a deeper clean, you’ll also want to descale the heat exchanger to dissolve stubborn mineral deposits. This simple task is one of the best ways to maintain your heater’s performance and efficiency. If you’re dealing with significant hard water issues, this step is especially important.

Schedule an Annual Professional Inspection

While regular cleaning is something you can handle yourself, it’s a great idea to schedule an annual professional inspection. Think of it as a yearly wellness check for your water heater. A trained technician can perform a thorough review of the entire unit, checking that every component is functioning correctly and safely. They can spot potential issues you might miss, addressing small problems before they turn into major headaches. This preventative care not only helps extend the life of your water heater but also gives you peace of mind. When it’s time for a check-up, our team can provide expert water heater services to keep your system in top shape.

When Should You Call JT Plumbing Heating & Air?

While tackling a home improvement project yourself can be rewarding, installing an electric tankless water heater is a job where calling in a professional is the smartest move. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your new appliance. When you’re dealing with high-powered electrical systems and your home’s main water lines, precision is key. A small mistake can lead to big problems, from electrical hazards to water damage. That’s where having a trusted local expert on your side makes all the difference. Here are the key moments when you should pick up the phone and call our team.

For Complex Electrical Upgrades

An electric tankless water heater requires a significant amount of power to heat water instantly. Unlike a traditional tank model, it can’t be plugged into a standard outlet. Your home’s electrical system must be robust enough to handle the demand, which often means you’ll need bigger breakers and thicker wiring. Our licensed technicians can assess your current electrical panel to see if it’s up to the task. If upgrades are needed, we handle everything safely and ensure all work meets local Fort Collins codes. This isn’t a project for guesswork; professional handling of your home’s electrical system is essential for safe, reliable water heater performance.

For Professional Installation in Fort Collins

Having your A.O. Smith unit installed by a qualified professional does more than just get the job done right—it protects your investment. A DIY installation can easily void your manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you without coverage if something goes wrong. More importantly, our team ensures the entire setup is safe and compliant with all local and national building regulations. We handle the complex plumbing connections, electrical wiring, and system testing to guarantee your tankless water heater operates flawlessly from day one. You get peace of mind knowing your home is safe and your new appliance is set up for maximum efficiency and a long lifespan.

For Maintenance and Emergency Support

Your relationship with your tankless water heater doesn’t end after installation. To keep it running efficiently, it needs regular maintenance, like descaling to prevent mineral buildup. While some tasks are simple, you may eventually need a repair that requires a specialist’s touch. Our team is familiar with A.O. Smith models and can quickly diagnose and fix any issues that arise. And because plumbing and heating problems don’t always happen during business hours, we offer prompt service to get your home back to normal. If you ever have an issue with your hot water, don’t hesitate to contact us for reliable support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size electric tankless water heater my home needs? Choosing the right size is all about matching the unit’s capacity to your household’s hot water usage. You’ll want to consider how many faucets and appliances you might run at the same time. For example, running a shower and the dishwasher simultaneously requires a higher flow rate than just one or the other. A professional can help you calculate your peak demand to ensure the model you choose can keep up and provide that endless hot water the way it’s supposed to.

Will I still have hot water if the power goes out? Since these are electric units, they do rely on your home’s power to operate. If you experience a power outage, the tankless water heater will not be able to heat water. This is an important consideration for any homeowner, as it’s one of the key differences compared to a traditional gas-powered tank heater.

How often do I really need to descale my unit? The frequency of descaling really depends on the hardness of your local water. Here in Colorado, we tend to have harder water, which means mineral buildup can happen more quickly. A good rule of thumb is to descale your unit about once a year. If you have a water softener, you might be able to go longer. This simple maintenance step is the best way to keep your heater running efficiently and prevent performance issues.

Is the installation process messy or will it take a long time? A professional installation is typically a clean and efficient process that can be completed within a day. The most intensive part is often any required electrical work, like running new wiring or upgrading a panel. Our team always takes care to protect your home and clean up thoroughly afterward, so the disruption to your daily routine is minimal.

Can I save money by installing it myself? While it might seem like a way to cut costs, installing an electric tankless water heater yourself can lead to bigger expenses down the road. An improper installation can void the manufacturer’s warranty, create safety hazards, and result in poor performance. Having a licensed professional handle the job ensures it’s done correctly and safely, protecting your investment and giving you total peace of mind.