IRBIS provides water heater installation services in the Bay Area. Homeowners in Alameda County, San Mateo County, and Santa Clara County can depend on our licensed professionals for high-quality service and equipment. We also install the most energy-efficient water heaters on the market. Our team manages the entire installation process, from helping choose the right unit for your home to installing a water heater to testing it to ensure it’s working properly.
Choosing the Right Water Heater
Our technicians are fully licensed and trained to work with the latest equipment and provide the best service possible. There are many water heater options available. The first step to installing one is to pick a model suited for your household. At IRBIS, we’ll help you consider the following:
- Type of Water Heater: Tank-based water heaters are the most common. They store water in tanks and maintain it at a steady temperature. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand and run only when needed, so can save energy. Heat pump water heaters work by transferring heat from the outside air; in doing so, they use less electricity.
- Fuel Source: When connected to a utility line, a water heater can use natural gas. Other types use fuel oil or geothermal energy. Electric water heaters use heating elements instead of combustion to provide hot water. Hybrid units switch between using electricity and hot air to save on long-term costs.
- Size: Home water heaters often have capacities of 40, 50, or 60 gallons. An 80-gallon tank is better suited for families with kids or larger households with five to seven people. A water heater that is too large for a household will use more energy than necessary, and a unit that is too small will run out of hot water too quickly.
- Energy Efficiency Rating: Look for Energy Star-certified water heaters and units with Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings between 0.65 and 0.95. Use the ratings on the product’s label to compare it with others when shopping around.
Why IRBIS is the best:
Preparing for Water Heater Installation
The preparation phase is an important part of installing a water heater. First, turn off the power or gas supply. Once the water is cool, drain the tank by attaching a hose to the drain valve at the base of the water heater and running the hose to a floor drain or outside. Turn on a hot water tap to relieve pressure and open the drain valve. Wait until the tank is empty before closing the valve.
Before the water heater installer arrives, you should also clear the space around the unit. Any clutter in the area will make it harder for them to work. Create a clear path for the installer from the front door to where the heater will be. Also, make sure the area is properly ventilated so hot air can escape. If a vent is not installed, the contractor will install one for you.
Water Heater Installation Process
Once the old water heater is disconnected and removed, the technician will:
- Inspect existing plumbing and gas or electrical connections
- Perform any repairs or updates as needed
- Move the new water heater into place
- Install the temperature and pressure relief valve
- Install the discharge pipe
- Connect the unit to your water lines
- Fill the tank and flush it of any debris
- Connect the water heater’s wiring
- Turn the power on and set the water temperature
- Test the new water heater
Questions About Installing a Water Heater
What Are the Benefits of Professional Water Heater Installation?
Letting a professional install your water heater is the safer option and some places may require a licensed technician to do the work. Their training and experience help avoid costly mistakes and injuries. Installation guarantees protect your investment should anything go wrong. Over the long run, you’ll benefit from improved energy efficiency and performance and a reduced likelihood of future repairs.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Water Heater?
An average tank water heater can cost up to $1,000. The equipment price depends on its size, brand, and other factors. Labor, additional installation requirements, and permitting factor into the water heater cost as well. But if you’re replacing an old water heater with a more energy-efficient model, you may be eligible to save with a home improvement tax credit.
How Long Should Water Heater Installation Take?
It takes two to three hours to replace a tank water heater with a similar model. This includes 45 to 60 minutes to drain, disconnect, and remove an old unit. Positioning, fully connecting, and testing the new water heater can take up to an hour and a half. Tankless to tankless installation takes one to three hours. However, switching from a tank to a tankless water heater can take a bit longer.
Why Choose IRBIS HVAC for Water Heater Installation
IRBIS is a leading Bay Area water heater installation company because our team is experienced and receives continual training. We install the highest-quality products at competitive prices. Our clients also benefit from exceptional customer service. Whether you need help with gas or electric water heater installation or tankless water heater installation, we’ll ensure your investment is worthwhile and that the unit works safely and flawlessly. Get in touch with us online or call 669-266-5464 to learn more.