Fremont's homes are among the oldest in this area, so a tankless water heater here usually means a new vent, possibly a larger gas line and a check of the electrical panel. Piedmont Natural Gas serves Wayne County, though not every street. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Fremont.
Signs you should look into it
- A tank heater that's well past its expected life
- Hot water that turns lukewarm after a short shower
- Sediment rumbling in the tank when it heats
- An existing tankless unit with low flow at hot taps
- A repeating error code after a cold night
Fremont's housing and water
About two-thirds of Fremont homes were built before 1980, and more than a fifth date to 1939 or earlier, per Census survey figures; the median build year is 1967. Many of these houses were built before modern water heater closets, so the heater may sit on a back porch, in a kitchen corner or under the house. Each spot changes how a tankless unit can be vented and how long the water lines run.
Fremont's water is groundwater. Whether the town pumps its own wells, buys from Wayne Water Districts, or both isn't settled in the sources we found, but Pikeville's report lists Fremont as a well-water supplier. Groundwater can carry more minerals than surface water, so plan on regular descaling and ask the plumber about an inlet filter.
Wayne County is Piedmont Natural Gas territory, with availability depending on the street. Homes without gas can use propane or electric tankless units. Older electrical panels often can't support a whole-house electric model, so that option needs a careful look. A propane unit sidesteps the electrical problem, as long as the tank and supply line are sized for the burner at full fire.
Wayne County Inspections issues plumbing permits across the county except Goldsboro, Mount Olive and their ETJs, and Fremont isn't on that excluded list.
Cost drivers
- Distance from the gas meter, or from a propane tank, to the unit
- Vent route through an older wall or roof
- Panel capacity if you're considering electric
- Pipe condition around the old heater in a house this age
- Whether you add a filter or softener
- For a repair, the part that failed and whether it's in stock
Calling for help
The number connects you with an independent plumber who works in the Fremont area. Tell them where the current heater sits, what fuel it uses and the approximate age of the house. If you ever detect a gas smell, leave first, then call 911 or Piedmont at 800-752-7504 from outside.
Tankless Water Heaters questions in Fremont
What are my options if there's no natural gas at my house?
How often should a tankless heater be descaled?
Is an electric tankless heater practical for a whole house?
Should I replace a tank heater that still works?
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