Water Heater Replacement and Repair

1. Turn Off the Gas or Electricity
Gas: Rotate the dial on the thermostat from “on” to “off” to shut off the gas supply to the water heater. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and contact your gas provider.
Electric: Locate your breaker panel and switch off the breaker designated for the water heater. Alternatively, if there’s a disconnect switch near the water heater, flip it to cut the power.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Trace the cold water pipe leading to your water heater back to its source or the wall to find the shut-off valve.
Gate Valve: For an older turn-handle valve, rotate the handle clockwise until it stops to shut off the water.
Ball Valve: For a modern lever-style valve, move the handle a quarter turn to shut off the water supply.

3. Drain the Water Heater (Optional)
To prevent potential water damage, you can drain the water heater. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the heater. Run the hose to a safe, lower area where hot or rusty water won’t cause harm. Open the nearest hot water faucet to break the vacuum seal and allow the water to drain. This process can take 10-30 minutes.

Where Can a Water Heater Be Installed?
According to the California Plumbing Code, gas water heaters must not be installed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or closets unless designated solely for that use. This regulation helps prevent accidental carbon monoxide exposure. If your gas water heater is located in a restricted area, consider switching to a Direct Vent Water Heater.

What Are the Requirements for Earthquake Bracing?
In earthquake-prone areas like Sacramento, water heaters must have certified earthquake straps on the top and bottom thirds of the tank. This helps protect the unit from seismic damage.

How Should Flue Venting Be Handled?
Gas water heaters require a flue venting system to expel carbon monoxide safely. Traditional tank units typically have a metal vent, which must be installed according to code, ensuring proper clearance from combustible surfaces and correct termination. Our technicians will inspect the venting system during installation.

What Is Combustion Air and Why Is It Important?
Adequate air for combustion is essential for gas water heaters to operate safely. Depending on the heater’s location, additional air vents, louvered doors, or other solutions may be necessary to meet code requirements.

Do I Need a Drip Pan and Drain Lines?
For water heaters in areas prone to water damage, a drip pan with a drain line leading to an approved location is mandatory. This is crucial for units on platforms, in attics, or on upper floors.

What Is the Temperature/Pressure Relief Valve Requirement?
The T/P relief valve must have a drain pipe extending to an exterior location to prevent scalding and damage from high temperature or pressure releases. This code is strictly enforced in Sacramento.

Is a Dedicated Water Shutoff Valve Necessary?
A shutoff valve on the cold water supply to the heater is required, allowing you to turn off the water to the heater without affecting the rest of the home’s water supply. We recommend a 1/4 turn ball valve for ease of use.

Should I Replace My Gas Valve?
Older grease pack gas valves are no longer code-compliant due to their high failure rate. During inspections, our technicians will check for these and recommend replacements as needed.

What Are Gas Drip Legs/Sediment Traps?
These traps, located on the gas line to the heater, catch debris and moisture, preventing them from entering the combustion chamber. While not always enforced by inspectors, they are required by manufacturers, and we ensure they are installed properly.

What Are Expansion Bottles?
Expansion bottles are required in “closed loop” plumbing systems to absorb excess pressure when water heats and expands, preventing damage to the plumbing system and unnecessary water release from the T/P valve.

Is Water Piping Insulation Required?
The first 5 feet of exposed hot and cold water pipes must be insulated in unconditioned spaces for energy efficiency and to meet code requirements.

What Is Electrical Bonding?
Bonding hot, cold, and gas water pipes with a 6 AWG wire prevents electrical hazards by ensuring the pipes are properly grounded.

Why Are Pressure Regulators Important?
Water heaters can be damaged by high water pressure (over 80 PSI). We test your water pressure during installation and recommend a regulator if needed to protect your pipes, fixtures, and appliances.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A common question we get is, “What is a tankless water heater and is it right for me?” Tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water, and recent advancements have made them more reliable and efficient. Here, we cover what you need to know before installing a tankless water heater in Sacramento.

Latest Improvements in Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters have evolved to address past issues. Modern units now feature top-mounted water lines for easier installation and recirculation systems to prevent the “cold-water sandwich” effect. These innovations ensure consistent hot water and reduce maintenance needs, addressing scale buildup more effectively.

Top Tankless Water Heater Brands
Ecosmart: Known for energy efficiency, Ecosmart’s compact units can save up to 60% on energy bills. Their “Flow Sensor” technology ensures a steady hot water supply.

Rinnai: With nearly a century of experience, Rinnai’s units feature recirculation technology for consistent hot water and isolation valves for easier maintenance.

Rheem: Offering a wide range of products, Rheem units boast 94% thermal efficiency and can deliver up to 9 gallons of hot water per minute, ideal for homes with cold groundwater.

Noritz: Noritz units are designed for easier installation with top-mounted water lines and are environmentally friendly, using recycled materials and reducing carbon emissions.

In California, where droughts are frequent, conserving water is crucial. Many residents use methods like collecting shower water in buckets or using hose guns to minimize waste. However, a more efficient solution is the recirculating pump.

What is a Recirculating Pump?
A recirculating pump, or circulation pump, connects to your plumbing system to circulate cooled water back to the water heater for reheating, preventing it from being wasted down the drain.

How Does it Work?
Timer-Operated Pumps: These pumps run on a set schedule. You can program the timer to activate the pump during your typical shower times, ensuring instant hot water.

On-Demand Pumps: These activate when the water temperature in the pipes drops below a certain level. The pump then sends the cooled water back to the heater to be reheated, ensuring no water is wasted.

Modern Technology Integration
Modern pumps often come with smartphone apps, allowing you to control the timer or activate the pump remotely, adding convenience and further efficiency to water conservation efforts.

By installing a recirculating pump, Sacramento residents can significantly reduce water waste and enjoy immediate hot water, contributing to conservation efforts in the city.

Replacing a 40 or 50-gallon gas water heater typically costs around $2335. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved in having a reputable company in Southern California install your new water heater. Note that prices here are higher than the national average by 10-40% and all materials are contractor grade, not available at local hardware stores.

Parts Cost Breakdown
Water Heater: $950 (Bradford White Professional Grade, available only to licensed professionals)
Water Shut Off Valve: $25
Earthquake Restraints: $35
Drip Pan: $35
Two Stainless Steel Supply Lines: $45
Gas Sediment Trap: $35
Gas Line with Shut Off Valve: $65
Exhaust Venting: $30
Ten Feet of Copper: $65 (for drain line and incoming water lines)
Miscellaneous Supplies: $50 (screws, shims, bolts, map gas, solder, rags, flux, etc.)
Total Cost for Parts: $1335

Additional Costs
Business Overhead: $450(20-40% of the sales price)
Covers expenses like Workers Compensation Insurance, Advertising, Fuel, Uniforms, Maintenance, Office & Warehouse costs, and General Liability.
Labor: $300
To ensure quality service, plumbers must earn a fair wage sufficient to live in the area and support their families.
Total Profit: $250
Necessary for business sustainability, ensuring warranties and support for installed products.
Summary
The total cost to replace your gas hot water heater is a combination of parts ($1335), overhead ($450), and labor ($300), culminating in $2335. This ensures you receive quality installation and ongoing support from a reputable company.

Quick Answer:
A thermocouple ensures the pilot light in your water heater stays on. When working correctly, it signals the thermostat to ignite the main burner, heating the water. If the thermocouple is faulty, your water heater won’t turn on.

Technical Details:
A thermocouple is a simple yet vital component that measures temperature differences using two dissimilar metals, usually copper and another metal. It generates a small electrical current when it detects a temperature change—one end in the pilot flame and the other in the thermostat. This current is read by the controller, allowing the main burner to ignite. If the thermocouple malfunctions, it won’t keep the pilot light lit, preventing the thermostat from igniting the main burner.

Steps to Fix the Pilot Light:
Turn Off the Gas Supply:

Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it off to prevent any gas flow.
Inspect the Thermocouple:

Check for dirt or debris on the thermocouple and clean it if necessary.
Ensure the thermocouple is securely positioned near the pilot flame.
Test the Thermocouple:

Use a multimeter to check the thermocouple’s voltage output. If it’s not producing the correct voltage, it may need to be replaced.
Replace the Thermocouple:

If cleaning and testing indicate a fault, replace the thermocouple with a new one compatible with your water heater model.
Reignite the Pilot Light:

Follow your water heater’s manual to properly reignite the pilot light.
Check for Gas Leaks:

After reigniting, check for any gas leaks around the connections to ensure safety.
Following these steps should help you troubleshoot and fix a pilot light that won’t stay lit. If the problem persists, consider consulting a professional plumber for further assistance.

Quick Answer:
The temperature and pressure release (T&P) valve is essential for preventing your water heater from exploding or causing a flood. It releases water if the temperature or pressure gets too high.

Details:
The T&P valve, typically attached to your water heater but sometimes found elsewhere in your plumbing system, is designed to release water when it detects excessive pressure or temperature. This prevents potential explosions or floods. Malfunctioning valves should be tested and replaced if necessary, as they often fail to close completely after opening, causing slow leaks.

Steps to Replace the T&P Valve:

Turn Off the Power and Water:

For electric heaters, turn off the breaker. For gas heaters, set the thermostat to “pilot.”
Shut off the cold water supply to the heater.
Drain the Water Heater:

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Open the valve and drain a few gallons to reduce pressure.
Remove the Old Valve:

Use a wrench to unscrew the old T&P valve. Be careful as water might still be hot.
Install the New Valve:

Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the new T&P valve.
Screw the new valve into the tank and tighten it securely.
Reconnect the Discharge Pipe:

Reattach the discharge pipe to the new valve, ensuring it’s directed towards a safe drainage area.
Turn On the Water and Power:

Turn on the cold water supply and check for leaks.
Restore power to the water heater.
Important Considerations:

Check for Underlying Issues: If the valve opened due to high pressure or temperature, inspect the pressure regulator or the heater’s thermostat to prevent future problems.
Soldering Copper Pipes: If your valve replacement involves soldering copper pipes, ensure you have the proper tools and follow safety protocols.
Following these steps will help you safely replace your T&P valve and maintain your water heater’s safety and functionality. If you’re unsure about any step, consult a professional plumber for assistance.

Quick Answer:
Service your traditional water heater annually. This includes a full flush, vacuuming the tank interior, inspecting for worn parts, and replacing the temperature and pressure valve every few years. The most critical step is inspecting and replacing anode rods.

Details:
Regular servicing involves checking for potential or existing failures to maintain the tank’s condition. Servicing every three years can extend the water heater’s lifespan up to 20 years.

Steps to Flush a Water Heater:

Turn Off Power and Water:

Electric: Switch off the breaker. Gas: Turn thermostat to “pilot.”
Shut off the cold water supply.
Drain the Tank:

Attach a hose to the drain valve, direct it to a drain.
Open the valve to empty the tank.
Clean the Tank:

Vacuum the tank interior to remove sediment.
Inspect and replace the temperature and pressure valve and anode rods if necessary.
Refill and Restore:

Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn on the water supply.
Restore power and check for leaks.
Benefits:

Prevents flooding and water damage.
Extends water heater lifespan.
Avoids premature replacement costs.
Regular maintenance ensures efficiency and longevity. If unsure, consult a professional plumber.

Quick Answer:
Tankless water heaters must be serviced frequently by flushing the heat exchanger with vinegar. Without regular maintenance, you will need to replace your tankless water heater sooner than expected.

Details:
Tankless water heaters have a radiator inside that needs to be flushed out. Service valves or isolation valves are critical for proper servicing. Flushing with vinegar removes mineral deposits inside the heat coils. If not removed, these minerals will clog the coils and cause leaks, damaging the heater’s components. Lack of service leads to heat loss and the need to replace the heat exchanger or the entire unit.

Benefits:
Flushing your tankless water heater maintains its efficiency and lifespan. Proper maintenance ensures you won’t have to replace your tankless water heater prematurely.