Installation · Tankless · Metro Vancouver
Tankless Water Heater Installation in Metro Vancouver
Natural-gas tankless installation done right: correct sizing for your fixtures, gas line verified for the unit’s input, venting to manufacturer spec, condensate handled, and a TSBC permit and inspection. Navien, Rinnai, Noritz, Bosch, and Takagi.
By the CANRO Heating & Cooling technical team · Licensed HVAC & gas-fitting contractor, Metro Vancouver · Last updated September 2026
TSBC-Licensed Gas FittersRed Seal HVACWorkSafeBC InsuredPermitted & Inspected InstallsServing Metro Vancouver Since 1999We File Your Rebates ⚡ Quick answer
A tankless water heater gives continuous hot water and frees floor space, but only if it is sized, gassed, and vented correctly. CANRO installs natural-gas tankless units across Metro Vancouver with verified gas-line capacity, manufacturer-spec venting, condensate management, and a TSBC permit. Ballpark $3,500–$7,500 installed.
The four things that make or break a tankless install
Every item is confirmed on the estimate visit, before we quote.| Factor | Why it matters | What CANRO does |
|---|
| Sizing (flow and temperature rise) | Undersized units go cold when two showers run in January | Count fixtures, plan for winter inlet temperatures, choose the unit or pair units |
| Gas supply | A tankless unit can need several times the input of a tank; starved gas causes ignition faults and error codes | Measure line size and length, check meter capacity, upsize where needed |
| Venting and combustion air | Wrong materials or termination cause shutdowns and unsafe operation | Manufacturer-listed vent, correct clearances from windows and property lines, intake protected |
| Condensate and water quality | Condensing units produce acidic condensate; scale shortens exchanger life | Neutralizer where required, drain routed, isolation valves for future descaling |
Condensing vs. non-condensing
Condensing tankless units recover extra heat from the exhaust, run cooler venting, and are the common choice in new installs here. Non-condensing units cost less up front but need higher-temperature venting. We explain both; in most Metro Vancouver homes the condensing unit is the better long-term value, especially where a rebate applies.
Installation day, step by step
- Drain and remove the old tank; cap and label.
- Run or upsize the gas line; pressure test.
- Mount the unit, run vent and intake, install the condensate drain and neutralizer.
- Install isolation/service valves, pressure-relief, and any recirculation components.
- Fire, set temperature, check gas pressure under full load, verify flow at the farthest fixture.
- Register the warranty and leave the permit paperwork for inspection.
Brands and why we recommend what we recommend
Navien, Rinnai, Noritz, Bosch, and Takagi all make units we install and service. The right one depends on your venting route, whether you want built-in recirculation, and parts availability in BC. See Navien, Rinnai, Noritz, Bosch, and Takagi.
Is tankless right for your home?
Not always. Very low hot-water use, a long run to the bathrooms with no recirculation, or a gas service that cannot be upgraded can make a high-efficiency tank the smarter buy. Our hot water system guide lays out tank, tankless, combi, and indirect options honestly.
Tankless Installation FAQs
How is a tankless water heater sized?+
By the peak flow you want at once (showers, taps, appliances in gallons per minute) and by the temperature rise needed in winter, when incoming water in Metro Vancouver is cold. We size for your actual fixtures, not a rule of thumb.
Will my existing gas line work?+
Often not without changes. A tankless unit draws far more gas while running than a tank, so the line and sometimes the meter need to be checked and upsized. We confirm this on the estimate visit so there are no surprises.
Where can the unit be installed?+
Usually in the mechanical room or garage, on an exterior wall for short venting. Condensing units also need a drain for condensate. Attic and closet installs are possible but need careful venting and drainage planning.
Do I need recirculation?+
If the unit is far from the main bathroom, a recirculation loop or a unit with built-in recirculation cuts the wait for hot water. It is optional and we explain the trade-offs on the estimate.
How long will it take?+
A conversion from a tank is typically one working day. A tankless-for-tankless swap is usually shorter.
What does tankless installation cost in Metro Vancouver?+
Ballpark $3,500–$7,500 installed depending on gas-line, venting, and recirculation work. Not a quote; we price after seeing the home.
Is the permit included?+
Yes. CANRO pulls the gas permit under our
Technical Safety BC licence and arranges the inspection.
Thinking about going tankless?
Call (604) 359-1081 for a free sizing and gas-line assessment. Residential, natural gas only.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a hot water tank last?
A standard gas or electric storage tank lasts 8–12 years. A high-quality tank with annual anode rod inspection can reach 15 years. Tankless water heaters typically last 18–22 years when descaled annually in Metro Vancouver's moderately hard water.
Should I switch to a tankless water heater?
Tankless makes sense if you have high demand (large family, multiple bathrooms running at once), want to free up floor space, or value endless hot water. Upfront cost is higher ($3,500–$6,000 installed vs $1,800–$3,200 for a tank) but operating cost is 25–40% lower for gas tankless.
My hot water tank is leaking — is it an emergency?
If the leak is from the tank body itself (not a valve or fitting), the tank is at end of life and needs replacement, usually within 24–48 hours before it floods. Shut off the water supply and gas/electric to the tank and call us.
What brands of water heaters do you install?
We install and service Bradford White, Rheem, AO Smith, John Wood, Giant, GSW for storage tanks; and Navien, Rinnai, Noritz, Bosch and Rheem for tankless units.
Can I install a water heater myself?
In BC, gas water heater installations must be performed by a TSBC-licensed gas fitter and are subject to permit and inspection. Electric tanks require a licensed electrician for the connection. CANRO handles permits as part of every installation.
What HVAC services does CANRO offer in Metro Vancouver?
CANRO installs, services and repairs boilers, furnaces, heat pumps, hot water tanks, tankless water heaters, gas fireplaces and air conditioning across Metro Vancouver. We work on residential homes, townhouses and condos throughout the Lower Mainland.
How long has CANRO been in business?
CANRO has been serving the Greater Vancouver area since 1999. Our founder George is recognised by customers as one of the most experienced boiler and hydronic heating technicians in the Lower Mainland.
What areas do you serve?
We cover all of Metro Vancouver: Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, New Westminster, Delta, Langley, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, White Rock, Pitt Meadows, and Maple Ridge.
