Better Water Heaters

Repair, Replacement & Installation

Bay Area Water Heater Services – Repair, Replacement & Installation

Better Water Heaters provides complete water heater solutions for Bay Area homes. From fast repairs to full replacements and energy-efficient installations, our licensed team has served Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties for over 20 years. Same-day service is often available, and estimates are always free.

Conventional Water Heater Installation

In about two hours, we can replace your traditional water heater. We provide free estimates and reasonable costs, and we now have a special offer of $50 off a new conventional water heater.

We prefer Bradford White water heaters because they are American made and have a strong history of reliability.

They come with a 6 year warranty on parts and a 2 year warranty on labor. For $200 you can choose a 12 year warranty.

If you prefer another product we will be glad to support you and your needs.

You might want to consider the energy efficiency and rebates available for a tankless water heater or a heat pump water heater.

Starting in 2027 gas tanks will not be allowed for residential installation.

Tankless Water Heater Installation

Our team specializes in Rinnai tankless water heaters. These water heaters use far less energy, provide more hot water, and last significantly longer than traditional water heaters. They not only provide much more hot water, but they also qualify for $900 in tax credits and refunds. If you want to replace your existing water heater, we’ll give you $200 off the new tankless water heater.

We also install other brands and provide maintenance and repair service as needed.

Please call us for all your water heater needs.

Heat Pump Water Heater Installation

Consider a heat pump water heater if you’re tired of paying high gas prices, or have solar panels and make your own electricity. Our specialists have installation experience with Rheem heat pump water heaters, which may save you up to $4,900 in rebates and $3750 in energy savings. We also offer $200 off a new heat pump water heater to help you make the move to a more energy-efficient and cost-effective water-heating option.

Heat pump water heaters cool the surrounding area as an added benefit. Make the green choice, choose a heat pump water heater to reduce your carbon footprint and help reduce your dependence on fossil fuels.

Some models don’t require any electrical modifications to your house.

Give us a call to see if a heat pump is the right choice for you.

Is your water heater not functioning properly? We offer water heater repair and maintenance services for all types of water heaters, including gas and electric tanks, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters. We can fix it, whether it’s a little repair or a large overhaul. We also offer regular, scheduled maintenance that can keep your water heater in good shape and guarantee it runs effectively. We are also pleased to provide military troops and elderly people with special discounts.

Water Filters, Conditioners, and Softeners

Want to improve your water quality to help your water heater last longer? Let us perform a free water quality test to see what you may need. We install point of use and full house filters, softeners and conditioners.

Water conditioning can help your fixtures, including your water heater last longer and can help keep water spots off your shower and your dishes.

Recirculation pumps, Pressure Regulators, Seismic Valves, Leak Detectors

Need a recirculation pump to reduce delay of hot water delivery? We got you covered.

Did you know that if you wait a minute for hot water to arrive the average home wastes 10,000 gallons of water per year?

That’s too bad, because this issue is easy to resolve.

Insurance companies are often requiring a water leak detection system to help protect your home. The Moen Flo is a proven industry leader that may qualify for a discount on your home insurance policy.

Insurance companies are requiring automatic gas shutoff, Seismic Valves, more often. These valves shut off your gas supply in the event of an earthquake. Let us install one for you to help protect your home today.

Temperature/pressure relief valve leaking? Your water pressure may be too high or you may have thermal expansion. We can come out and test your plumbing and resolve your issue correctly.

Are You Ready to Start Your Project?

Talk To Better Water Heaters for services and get a DISCOUNT.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gas water heaters getting banned in the Bay Area in 2027?

Beginning in 2027, the Bay Area Air District’s appliance rules require zero-NOx standards for certain new water heaters. The rules phase in by equipment size through 2029 and 2031. They apply to new sales and installations, not to existing units until replacement time.

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in the Bay Area?

Yes. Cities require a plumbing permit for water heater replacement, and most allow simple or over-the-counter permits. We handle the permit for you.

Are earthquake straps required in California?

Yes. State code requires approved seismic bracing, typically two straps at the upper and lower thirds of the tank. We include strapping with every install.

What rebates are available for heat pump water heaters in my county?

Bay Area incentives change often, but common programs include:
• SVCE (Santa Clara County communities) HPWH rebates
• Peninsula Clean Energy, San Mateo County
• Ava Community Energy for Alameda County
• Silicon Valley Power, City of Santa Clara
• CleanPowerSF bill credits for HPWHs in San Francisco
We help you confirm eligibility and apply.

Is TECH Clean California offering HPWH incentives now?

Yes, TECH Clean California relaunched single-family HPWH incentives on July 15, 2025, with details updated as funding opens and fills. We check the live status when we quote.

Tank, tankless, or heat pump, which is best for my Bay Area home?

Heat pump, lowest operating cost, electric, may qualify for strong incentives.
Tankless gas, endless hot water, space saving, needs proper gas line and venting.
Standard tank gas or electric, lower upfront cost, larger footprint.
We size and price all three, then show lifetime cost so you can compare.

How fast can you replace a failed water heater?

In many cases same day across Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo. Timing depends on model, venting, electrical or gas line needs, and permits.

What size water heater do I need for a family in the Bay Area?

Typical guides, 30–40 gal for 1–2 people, 40–50 gal for 3–4, 50–80 gal for 5+, but usage, bathrooms, and fixtures matter. We confirm sizing during your estimate.

What are the signs I should replace instead of repair?

Age past expected life, rusty water, leaks, frequent pilot or ignition issues, or insufficient hot water. If the tank is leaking, replacement is the safe choice.

Do you dispose of the old water heater and bring everything up to code?

Yes. We remove and recycle the old unit, add seismic straps, pan and drain where required, T&P discharge, gas shutoff and flex connector, venting, and expansion tank if required by local code.

Will I need electrical work for a heat pump water heater?

Often yes, HPWHs typically need a dedicated 240V circuit and condensate handling. We coordinate electrical scope and include it in your quote.

What does installation typically cost in the Bay Area?

Costs vary by model and site conditions. We give a written estimate up front, then help stack local rebates and bill credits to lower your net cost.

Do you serve my city?

We cover Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties, with fast response across San Jose, Fremont, Hayward, Redwood City, and nearby cities.

Do you warranty your work?

Yes. You get the manufacturer’s warranty plus our workmanship warranty. Your proposal lists both.

How do I get started?

Call or request a Free Estimate. We confirm sizing, check incentives, pull the permit, and schedule installation.