Selecting the right water heater for your needs involves considering several factors:

• Fuel Type: Determine whether you have access to natural gas propane or if you’ll rely on electricity. Gas water heaters typically heat water faster and are more cost-effective over time, but electric models are usually easier to install and maintain.
• Size and Capacity: Consider your household size and daily hot water usage. For a family, a tank with 40 to 60 gallons capacity might be appropriate. If you opt for a tankless water heater, you’ll need to consider its flow rate (gallons per minute) and ensure it can handle your simultaneous water needs.
• Energy Efficiency: Look for models with a high Energy Factor (EF) rating. Higher ratings indicate more efficient units that can save you money on utility bills in the long run. Tankless water heaters generally offer greater efficiency compared to traditional tank models.
• Space Considerations: Tankless water heaters occupy less space and can be mounted on walls, making them ideal for smaller homes or apartments. Conventional tank heaters require more space and often need to be placed in a basement or utility room.
• Budget and Long-Term Costs: While tankless water heaters are more expensive up front, they have longer lifespans and lower operating costs, which could make them more economical in the long run. Traditional tank models are less expensive initially but may have higher energy costs.
• Brand and Warranty: Choose a reputable brand and consider the warranty offered. Brands like Rheem, Bradford White, and A.O. Smith are known for their quality. A longer warranty can be beneficial for both tank and tankless models.

Can yours be repaired? Does it need to be replaced? We understand these choices can be a little overwhelming and the answer is not immediately clear without considering all factors and talking with an expert like JK Plumbing. The following are a couple of helpful guides.

Several signs indicate it might be time to replace your water heater:

• Running out of hot water

Your water heater might not be big enough, and you might need to replace it with a tankless water heater. Tankless can provide as much hot water as you need, but they only produce hot water at the same time as one other appliance. If this doesn’t work for you, you might be better off with something more traditional.

• Rust-colored and foul-smelling water

Rust-colored or foul-smelling water likely means the inside of your tank is rusting. It’s most definitely a sign that you need to have it serviced. Call us to find out if your tank’s anode rod needs replacing or if your water heater needs to be replaced entirely.

• Leaking water heater

A leaking water heater is alarming and could signal other issues or be dangerous if left unresolved. Call us today about your leaking water heater for an assessment and find out if it can be repaired or needs replacing.

• No hot water at all

When your hot water heater is not producing anything hot, the expensive heating element could be the problem. Our expert service technicians will help you assess whether to repair or replace the unit.

• Your water heater is 10 years old or older.

Water heaters do not last forever, and the life expectancy depends upon the type you have. You can expect 8-12 years from most gas or electric water heaters and 10-15 years from most tankless water heaters. At a certain point it is more cost-effective to replace an old unit rather than try to repair it. Let us help you decide.

Water heater replacement decision factors:

• How many people live in your household or work in your place of business? The demand for your water heater is a critical factor. We’ll help you choose the right size for your needs.
• The age of your water heater
• The total number of bathrooms within your home or business
• Square footage of your residence or place of business
• The severity of the damage or required repairs of your current water heater
• Which type of water heater is best for your home or business? Electric water heaters, gas water heaters, or tankless water heaters? All have their pros and cons depending upon your situation.

Water heaters break and when yours calls it quits, JK Plumbing’s team of friendly San Francisco Bay Area water heater repair service professionals are ready to help you. We repair and install water heaters from major brands like Bradford White, Rheem, and A.O. Smith.

Water heaters come in various types, including electric water heaters, gas water heaters, and tankless water heaters. Each type offers unique benefits, from the consistent performance of gas water heaters to the energy efficiency of electric models and the space-saving design of tankless units. At JK Plumbing, we provide expert guidance on choosing the right type for your needs, ensuring efficient water heating solutions for your home or business. We service and install new plumbing and water heater parts from all popular brands like Kohler, Delta, Bradford White, Rheem, Moen, Pfister, A.O. Smith, and more.

Deciding whether to repair or replace a hot water heater depends on several factors, including its age, condition, and repair costs. Generally, if your water heater is relatively new and the repair cost is manageable, repairing it is a viable option. However, replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run for older units or when facing recurring issues. Our skilled Burlingame plumbers can assess your water heater’s condition and recommend the best course of action.

The most common cause of water heater failure is sediment buildup, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, sediment accumulates at the bottom of the tank, leading to reduced efficiency, overheating, and potential damage to the tank. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to preventing such issues. JK Plumbing offers comprehensive water heater inspection and maintenance services to keep your unit functioning smoothly.