TrueLine Plumbing

Water heater replacement and installation in Los Angeles

When your water heater is leaking, rusting or simply worn out, we’ll help you choose the right size and type, then install it properly and to code.

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What needs fixing?

Choosing the right heater

Size matters more than most people think. A heater that’s too small runs out of hot water, and one that’s too big wastes energy keeping water hot that you never use. We size it to your household and how you actually use hot water.

You can choose between a standard tank, a high-efficiency tank, a heat pump water heater and a tankless unit. Each has different upfront costs, running costs and space needs, and we’ll explain the trade-offs plainly.

Water heater on the outside wall of a home

Signs it’s time to replace

10 to 12 years oldMost tank heaters wear out in this range.
Water leaking from the tankA leaking tank can’t be repaired.
Rust in the hot waterThe inside of the tank is corroding.
Repair after repairSpending more on fixes than it’s worth.
Not enough hot waterYour household has outgrown the heater.
Rising energy billsAn old heater working harder to keep up.

Tank or tankless?

Both work well in LA homes. Here’s the short version.

TankTankless
Upfront costLowerHigher
Hot waterCan run outDoesn’t run out
LifespanAbout 8 to 12 years20 years or more
SpaceLarge tank on the floorSmall unit on the wall
Best forSmaller homes and tighter budgetsBigger families and long showers

What a proper installation includes

  • Sizing the heater to your household.
  • Two seismic straps, as California requires.
  • New water and gas connectors, and venting that meets code.
  • An expansion tank where your plumbing needs one.
  • A new temperature and pressure relief valve, piped to a safe spot.
  • Removal of your old heater.
  • A permit and city inspection where required.

What affects the price

You get a written price before any work starts. These are the things that move it.

Type and sizeTank, tankless and heat pump models vary widely.
Gas line and ventingSome upgrades need a larger gas line or new venting.
LocationAttic and closet installs take more work than a garage.
Code updatesOlder setups may need straps, an expansion tank or a drain pan.

Water heater replacement questions

How long does a water heater replacement take?

Most standard tank replacements are done the same day. Tankless installs take longer, because the gas line and venting often need changes.

What size water heater do I need?

It depends on how many people live in the home and how much hot water you use at once. A family of three or four often uses a 40 to 50 gallon tank, but we size it to your home.

Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Los Angeles?

Yes. Water heater replacements in Los Angeles and most nearby cities need a permit and an inspection, which checks the straps, venting and gas connection.

Why does California require earthquake straps?

So the heater can’t tip over in an earthquake and break its gas and water lines. See our earthquake plumbing guide.

Should I switch to tankless?

If you run out of hot water or want the space back, it’s worth considering. See tankless water heaters and our tank vs. tankless guide.

Need help with water heater replacement?

Book online in two quick steps, or call us any time, day or night.

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