3 services · California
Water heaters in California
California requires water heaters to be strapped against earthquakes, and flexible gas connectors reduce the chance of a break during shaking. Any replacement should include seismic straps and current-code connections.
- Licensed local plumbers
- The problem explained before work starts
- Price agreed before the job begins
Statewide conditions
Water heaters in California: what to know
Hard water in Southern California and the Central Valley builds scale in tanks and tankless units, while soft water from Hetch Hetchy and the East Bay means tanks there fail more from age and corrosion. Heaters in hot Central Valley garages and attics also see extreme summer heat.
Water heater replacements need a city permit, and contractors must hold a CSLB license. Many owners add an expansion tank and seismic gas shutoff valve at the same time.
- Climate
- Frozen pipes are rare in most of California. Heat, humidity, water quality and storms cause far more plumbing problems than cold.
- Typical foundations
- Older homes in established neighborhoods often have galvanized or cast-iron pipe, and many homes sit on slabs or raised foundations rather than basements. Most common: concrete slabs.
Water heaters services
Water heater repair
If a gas water heater has no hot water, the pilot, thermocouple or gas valve is the usual cause; on an electric heater it's usually an element or thermostat. Those parts are repairable. A tank that leaks from the bottom can't be repaired and needs to be replaced.
Water heater replacement
A leaking tank or a heater past about 10 years old is usually replaced rather than repaired. A proper install includes a permit, correct venting (adjusted for altitude where needed), an expansion tank where required, a drip leg on the gas line and a relief valve discharge pipe.
Tankless water heaters
A tankless water heater heats water as it flows, so it doesn't run out, but it needs a larger gas line, its own venting and a unit rated for your elevation. Installed correctly and descaled regularly, it can outlast a tank heater.
Water heaters by city in California
Local pages cover each city's water provider, permit office and housing. Not listed? Check your ZIP code below.
- Water heaters in Los Angeles
- Water heaters in San Diego
- Water heaters in Sacramento
- Water heaters in San Jose
- Water heaters in San Francisco
- Water heaters in Fresno
- Water heaters in Long Beach
- Water heaters in Oakland
Water heaters questions in California
Do California water heaters need earthquake straps?
How long does a water heater replacement take?
How these problems start and how to choose between repair options is covered in the water heaters guide.
More plumbing in California
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