Better Water Heaters

Internal Heat Pump vs. Split-System: Strategic SF Home Guide

Technical diagram of a split-system heat pump water heater installation in a tight SF space

Deciding between an integrated or split-system heat pump water heater in a San Francisco row house involves a complex trade-off between indoor square footage and exterior permitting challenges. This guide provides a technical framework for making the right choice.

Garage Fire Code Compliance: The $4,200 San Francisco Oversight

A non-compliant tankless installation safety violation showing a hole in the garage firewall.

A recent audit of 150 San Francisco garage water heater installations revealed a shocking trend: contractors are skipping mandatory fire-rated drywall patches. This $4,200 oversight doesn’t just fail inspection; it gives insurance companies a loophole to deny your entire house fire claim.