Tankless Water Heater in Kiowa, CO

Signs it's time to consider tankless

• An aging tank with rust, rumbling or a damp base
• Hot water running out before the last shower
• A tankless unit with fault codes or cold-weather trouble
• Crusty mineral buildup on faucets
• Wanting more space in the utility room

Kiowa conditions

Kiowa is the Elbert County seat, a small home rule town that has grown steadily. Census survey figures put the median build year at 1996, with about 28% of homes built before 1980, so many houses have garages or utility rooms where a sealed vent exits easily. Black Hills Energy supplies natural gas; a tankless burner needs a line sized for full-fire demand, which the plumber measures from the meter.

The Kiowa Water and Wastewater Authority (KWWA) serves the town with groundwater from an Authority well, disinfected with chlorine. Its report doesn't state hardness, so a simple test helps decide on flushing frequency or scale treatment for the heat exchanger. KWWA's technical standards require a water pressure relief valve in the internal plumbing of every property it serves, and homeowners are responsible for the service line from the main to the house, with meter pits on the owner's property. A plumber installing a tankless unit can confirm the relief valve is in place and working while making the connections.

Rural 80117 addresses outside the Authority weren't verified, so if you're outside town, your water source may differ.

What affects cost

• Gas line. Upsizing from the Black Hills Energy meter if needed.
• Venting and condensate. A short sidewall vent and a drain for condensing models.
• Water treatment. Based on a test of your well-sourced water.
• Relief valve work. Adding or replacing the required valve if it's missing or failing.
• Permit. Town or Elbert County, depending on the address.

When you call

You'll be connected with an independent plumber who works in Kiowa. Inside Town limits, water heater replacements can use the Simple Building Permit Application, with SAFEbuilt handling permits and inspections for the Town (inspections 720-641-1956; Town office 303-621-2366). Outside Town limits, Elbert County issues permits. If you smell gas, leave the house, then call 911 and Black Hills Energy at the number on your gas bill.