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Storage tank, tankless, or heat pump - we'll help you figure out what actually works for your needs. Fast, reliable service in San Francisco and Marin County.
Same-day installation available for like-for-like replacements
Each type works differently, and the right choice depends on your space, usage, and priorities.
This is the original type. They store 40-50 gallons and keep it at your desired temperature - usually 120 degrees. When the temp drops inside the tank, the thermostat tells it to fire up again.
They're about 80-85% efficient, slow-burning, and they recover at about 45 gallons an hour. Not super powerful but reliable.
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Tankless don't store water. Water comes in, high combustion heats it on demand as it passes through. About 95% efficient and way more powerful - maybe 500% more powerful than a storage tank.
They can produce 5-7 gallons per minute. Perfect if you want to save space - they're great for San Francisco where space is tight. You can put them in a storage closet.
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These are all electric. They work through compression and refrigeration - like your fridge in reverse. You'll feel cold air coming out instead of hot air.
They're 400% efficient compared to regular electric water heaters. But that's the catch - compared to electric, not gas. The recovery rate is only about 27 gallons an hour (220v) or 9 gallons an hour (110v), so if you can't make it, you have to store it.
They're much larger than storage tanks - almost twice the size. You need space and the right clearances for airflow. They work well in Marin where you have garage space. In the city, it's tougher.
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Biggest mistake we see: people think because they have a 40-gallon storage tank, they just need a 40-gallon heat pump. Wrong.
Your storage tank recovers at about 45 gallons an hour. A heat pump only recovers at 27 gallons an hour (220v). And if you get the 110-volt version, it's only 9 gallons an hour.
If you can't make it, you have to store it. You almost have to double the size. Otherwise you're timing your showers around recovery time.
A lot of companies will sell you what sounds fancy, not what works for your needs.
We ask questions: How many people? How many bathrooms? Do you all shower in the morning? Do you run laundry and dishwasher while someone's showering? Then we size it properly.
Sometimes when you're switching from a storage tank to tankless, you need to upsize the gas pipe, change the venting, bring in 110v power. If these aren't done right, you'll have problems.
Hot water is a civil right. Don't time your life around your showers. We make sure you have the capacity you need.
Space is tight, so tankless makes sense if you want to free up room. Just make sure your gas line can handle it and you're okay with the installation cost.
Storage tanks work fine for most single-family homes if you have space for them.
Heat pumps are tough in the city unless you have a good-sized garage with proper clearances.
You've got more space, so heat pumps are a better option here. The garage space in Marin is usually adequate - around 450-900 square feet with good airflow.
If you're doing new construction or a remodel, heat pumps are worth considering for the efficiency gains.
Storage tanks and tankless both work great too.
Like for like is always simplest and cheapest. But if your needs have changed - bigger family, more bathrooms, different usage patterns - talk to us. We'll figure out if you need to change your water heater type.
We install all types - storage tank, tankless, and heat pump. The key is proper sizing based on how you actually use hot water.
No hot water? Strange noises? Leaking tank? We diagnose it and fix it fast.
Regular maintenance extends your water heater's life and catches problems before they become expensive.
Storage tanks typically last 8-12 years. Tankless can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Heat pumps are newer technology but expected to last 10-15 years. Regular maintenance extends the life of any type.
If your water heater is over 10 years old and needs a major repair, replacement usually makes more sense. If it's newer and it's a simple fix like a thermostat or heating element, repair is cost-effective. We'll give you honest advice on which makes sense.
Yes, absolutely. You might need to upsize your gas line, change the venting, and add electrical for the controls. We'll assess your home and tell you what's involved. Installation typically takes 1-3 days depending on what needs to be upgraded.
Like-for-like storage tank replacement is the most affordable. Switching to tankless or heat pump costs more due to installation complexity. We provide free estimates with all costs broken down clearly - no surprises.
They're extremely efficient compared to electric resistance water heaters. If you're switching from gas, the savings are less dramatic. The key is sizing them correctly - undersized heat pumps cause frustration, not savings.
It depends on your household size, number of bathrooms, and usage patterns. We ask questions about your actual usage and calculate the right size. Don't assume you need the same size as what you have - your needs may have changed.
Yes, in both San Francisco and Marin County. We handle all permits and inspections as part of our service. Proper permitting ensures your installation is code-compliant and safe.
We work with all major water heater brands and will recommend what works best for your specific situation and budget. We're not tied to one manufacturer.
Whether you need a new installation, emergency repair, or you're not sure what you need - give us a call. We'll come out, look at your situation, and tell you what makes sense.
Serving San Francisco & Marin County • Licensed & Insured • 20+ Years Experience