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Water Heater Services

Water Heater
Installation & Repair

From traditional storage tanks to high-efficiency tankless and heat pump systems, we help you find the right solution for your home. Fast, reliable service in San Francisco and Marin County.

Same-day installation available on like-for-like replacements

Three Main Types

Each type works differently, and the right choice depends on your space, usage, and priorities.

Storage Tank Water Heaters

The traditional standard. These units store 40-50 gallons of hot water ready for use. When the temperature inside the tank drops, the burner reignites to heat it back up.

They are generally 80-85% efficient with a recovery rate of about 45 gallons per hour. They offer a balance of affordability and reliability.

Best For:

  • • Most affordable upfront
  • • Proven, reliable technology
  • • Half-day installation

Key Specs:

  • • 80-85% efficient
  • • 40-50 gallon typical
  • • ~45 gal/hour recovery

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless don't store water. Water comes in, high combustion heats it on demand as it passes through. About 95% efficient and way more powerful - around 500% more powerful than a storage tank.

They can produce 5-7 gallons per minute. Perfect if you want to save space - they're great for San Francisco where space is tight. You can put them in a storage closet.

Best For:

  • • Space-constrained homes
  • • High efficiency needs
  • • Endless hot water

Key Specs:

  • • 95% efficient
  • • 5-7 GPM flow rate
  • • 1-3 day installation

Heat Pump Water Heaters

These electric units work like a refrigerator in reverse, pulling heat from the air to warm the water. They are highly efficient but require specific installation conditions.

While they are 400% efficient compared to standard electric heaters, they heat water slower (about 27 gallons/hour). This means sizing is critical. You often need a larger tank to ensure you don't run out of hot water.

They are taller and require good airflow, making them ideal for garages in Marin but often challenging for tight San Francisco utility closets.

Best For:

  • • Marin homes with garage space
  • • All-electric homes
  • • Maximum efficiency goals

Key Specs:

  • • 400% efficient (vs electric)
  • • 27 gal/hr (220v), 9 gal/hr (110v)
  • • Requires significant space

Important Considerations

Sizing Heat Pumps Correctly

A common error is replacing a 40-gallon gas heater with a 40-gallon heat pump. Because heat pumps heat water slower than gas, a direct swap often leads to running out of hot water.

If you can't make it, you need to store it. To maintain comfort, you typically need to size up (e.g., to 65 or 80 gallons) to store more hot water, compensating for the slower recovery time.

Usage-Based Sizing

We size your system based on your actual peak usage. Consider what the anticipated number of people, bathrooms, and simultaneous appliance use, not just what was there before.

System Upgrades

Switching to tankless or heat pumps often requires upgrades to gas lines, venting, or electrical panels. We assess these needs upfront so there are no surprises during installation.

Hot water is a essential. Don't time your life around your showers. We make sure you have the capacity you need.

How to Choose the Right Type

For San Francisco

Space is tight, so tankless makes sense if you want to free up room. Just make sure your gas line can handle it and you're okay with the installation cost.

Storage tanks work fine for most single-family homes if you have space for them.

Heat pumps are tough in the city unless you have a good-sized garage with proper clearances.

For Marin County

You've got more space, so heat pumps are a better option here. The garage space in Marin is usually adequate - around 450-900 square feet with good airflow.

If you're doing new construction or a remodel, heat pumps are worth considering for the efficiency gains.

Storage tanks and tankless both work great too.

Like for like is always simplest and cheapest. But if your needs have changed - bigger family, more bathrooms, different usage patterns - talk to us. We'll figure out if you need to change your water heater type.

Complete Water Heater Services

Installation

We install all types - storage tank, tankless, and heat pump. The key is proper sizing based on how you actually use hot water.

  • Free in-home estimates
  • Proper sizing for your needs
  • Code compliance
  • Same-day available
  • Earthquake bracing

Repair

No hot water? Strange noises? Leaking tank? We diagnose it and fix it fast.

  • No hot water issues
  • Pilot light problems
  • Tankless error codes
  • All brands & models
  • Emergency service 24/7

Maintenance

Regular maintenance extends your water heater's life and catches problems before they become expensive.

  • Annual tune-ups
  • Sediment flushing
  • Anode rod replacement
  • Leak inspection
  • Pressure verification

Common Water Heater Questions

How long do water heaters last?

Storage tanks typically last 8-12 years. Tankless can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Heat pumps are newer technology but expected to last 10-15 years. Regular maintenance extends the life of any type.

Should I repair or replace?

If your water heater is over 10 years old and needs a major repair, replacement usually makes more sense. If it's newer and it's a simple fix like a thermostat or heating element, repair is cost-effective. We'll give you honest advice on which makes sense.

Can I switch from tank to tankless?

Yes, absolutely. You might need to upsize your gas line, change the venting, and add electrical for the controls. We'll assess your home and tell you what's involved. Installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on what needs to be upgraded.

How much does water heater installation cost?

Like-for-like storage tank replacement is the most affordable. Switching to tankless or heat pump costs more due to installation complexity. We provide free estimates with all costs broken down clearly - no surprises.

Do heat pump water heaters really save money?

They're extremely efficient compared to electric resistance water heaters. If you're switching from gas, the savings are less dramatic. The key is sizing them correctly - undersized heat pumps cause frustration, not savings.

What size water heater do I need?

It depends on your household size, number of bathrooms, and usage patterns. We ask questions about your actual usage and calculate the right size. Don't assume you need the same size as what you have - your needs may have changed.

Do I need a permit for water heater replacement?

Yes, in both San Francisco and Marin County. We handle all permits and inspections as part of our service. Proper permitting ensures your installation is code-compliant and safe.

What brands do you install?

We work with all major water heater brands and will recommend what works best for your specific situation and budget. We're not tied to one manufacturer.

Need a Water Heater?

Whether you need a new installation, emergency repair, or just advice on the best system for your home, we're here to help.

Serving San Francisco & Marin County • Licensed & Insured • 20+ Years Experience