WATER HEATER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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- 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
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What if I smell gas at the water heater?
Turn off gas at the water heater. If you need assistance, call us or contact PG&E
What’s better, a tank or tankless water heater?
There are many things to consider when selecting a tank vs tankless. We consider factors such as space, capacity needed, With a tank water heater you have 40, 50, or 75 gallons of water stored up vs. in tankless costs less to run as it is a point of use system, they have built-in filters, have longer warranty 15 years v 6 years tank.
Why should I select a tankless water heater?
15-20 year warranty on heat exchanger depending on model with a 1 or 5 year labor warranty depending on model. They are more energy efficient due to point of use system and there may be space constraints
Why should I select a tank water heater?
They have a higher hot water storage capacity. You can connect external recirculating pumps to deliver hot water faster. Typically, there is a lower installation cost when replacing like for like
What are things to think about before selecting a tank water heater?
If it leaks, it can cause more water damage. They typically don’t last as long as tankless. The pilot runs continuously
What are things to think about before selecting tankless water heater?
It has an electronic ignition; does not have a pilot on all the time. There is a higher installation cost. Typically a higher cost due to venting requirement, gas line requirements and a higher annual maintenance cost than a tank water heater
If I hear a loud explosion noise at my water heater, what should I do?
Turn off the gas if you hear exploding sound and call us immediately
What do I do if my water heater is leaking?
Turn off the water heater at shut off valve cold side on top of water. Turning off water will not stop the water heater from leaking but will help slow down the leak. You should also turn off the gas to the water heater at bottom of water heater. Connect a water hose to drain located towards bottom of water heater and drain the water heater and direct the water out of the property through the hose, to avoid further water damage. Call us for service if need assistance and to replace your water heater. When the water heater is leaking internally, it needs to be replaced.
How long is a water heater warranty?
The standard manufacturer warranty is six years for tank water heaters and 15 years for tankless water heaters. There is no additional cost for standard warranties when purchasing a water heater. There are options to extend the water heater warranty for an additional fee. Call our office to inquire about extended warranties.
I didn’t purchase my water heater with your company; can you still service our water heater warranty?
Yes, we can service any water heater warranty on all brands of water heaters. We are factory trained and authorized in all water heater brands. Call us directly with your water heater serial number and we can verify your warranty with manufacturer, register your water heater warranty for you, service your water heater under warranty, provide needed parts and service under your warranty, replace your water heater under warranty if needed. We we carry many warranty water heater parts, allowing us to service your water heater faster than having to wait for parts to be shipped from factory. If your unit is out of warranty, we can still assist you with any water heater needs.
How often should I do a water heater maintenance service?
Manufacturer recommends performing annual water heater maintenance services on all water heaters. Depending on usage and application, may need more frequent service. Call our office to set up your water heater maintenance service.
What happens if I don’t perform water heater maintenance service?
Water heater life span decreases. Your Warranty may be void. There may be calcium build-up, debris and rust may build up in the unit causing performance issues
What does a water heater maintenance entail?
The steps we use are:
- Flushing up to 45 minutes (must have flush valve kit on tankless units)
- Cleaning intake filters and water filters
- Descaling
- Leak Inspection
- check gas valve for leaks
- check relief valve for leaks
- check drain to water heater for leaks
- check hot and cold water lines on the drain valve
- check for water heater codes/issues
- Parts Failure Inspection
- check condition of parts
- check exterior condensate drain line
- check for unusual noises at water heater
Why should I have you install my water heater instead of installing it myself?
You want a licensed, professional plumbing company to install your water heater, to ensure it is safely installed up to current uniform plumbing code. You don’t want to mess with gas. We have over 44 years experience and have installed thousands of water heaters safely and professionally. We will make sure your water heater has all the manufacturer required code upgrades, that the correct connection size and material is installed, and that your water heater is properly sized for your required usage. We will recommend a water heater for you and will answer any questions you may have.
Can you install a recirculating pump to my water heater?
Yes, we can in most cases, install an external recirculating pump to your water heater. Call our office for more information
Do I need to have a recirculating line to install an external recirculating pump to my tankless water heater?
No. With certain water heater models, you can turn any plumbing system into a recirculating system. Even if your existing plumbing system doesn’t have a dedicated recirculating line, we can install a by-pass valve with a built-in recirculating technology accessory. Call our office to learn more.
How soon can you come install a new water heater?
Most times, we have same day or next business day service available, depending on the model sought. Call our office to help you with your hot water needs.
Will you install a water heater that I purchase?
We will install your water heater but there is no warranty. It is always recommended to have a licensed professional plumbing company like Performance Plus Plumbing, LLC, to install and recommend a unit for you.
Do you offer financing for my water heater installation project?
Yes, we have partnered with a lending company to assist with your financing needs. Call Performance Plus Plumbing, LLC to apply and learn more.
Are there any federal or state tax incentives for installing a new water heater?
Some models do qualify for federal and/or state tax credits. There may also be manufacturer rebates on certain models. Call us to find out more.
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“I had an issue with a brand new water heater and Performance Plus was recommended by the manufacturer, and they came out as soon as they could and were able to replace the thermostat and burner assembly in about an hour with no issues. They were great to work with and I would use them again.”
- Francisco Gomez








