RESOURCES
Water Heater Buying Resources
Everything you need to make a confident, informed decision about replacing your water heater — all in one place. Explore our expert Buyer’s Guide below, and access expanded downloadable resources that help you understand your options, your rights as a consumer, and how to keep your home’s hot water system running safely and efficiently.
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PRIMARY BUYERS GUIDE
1: Types of Water Heaters
There are more choices today than ever before — but understanding a few key differences makes selecting the right water heater simple.
Tank Water Heaters:
These are the most common systems found in homes. They store a set volume of hot water and keep it heated throughout the day. Tank water heaters are affordable, reliable, and often the quickest to install — including same-day installation in many areas.
Tankless Water Heaters:
Also known as “on-demand” systems, tankless units heat water only when needed. They cost more upfront but offer longer lifespans and unlimited hot water. They may require upgrades to gas or electrical supply depending on your home.
Gas vs. Electric:
- Gas water heaters provide faster recovery time and lower long-term operating costs.
- Electric water heaters are simpler to install and maintain, especially in homes without gas service.
If you’re unsure which type is best for your home, our instant quote tool walks you through the decision in minutes — no in-home visit required.
2: How to Choose the Right Size
Water heater size directly affects comfort, efficiency, and cost. Choosing the wrong size is one of the most common homeowner headaches — but it’s easy to avoid.
Consider these factors:
- Number of people in your home
- Number of bathrooms
- How you use hot water (showers, laundry, dishwasher)
- Peak morning or evening demand
General benchmarks:
- 1–2 people → 30–40 gallon
- 3–4 people → 40–50 gallon
- 5+ people → 50–75 gallon
Tankless systems are sized based on flow rate rather than capacity. To eliminate the guesswork, our online tool calculates the best size based on your home’s layout and usage patterns.
3: Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
Replacing your water heater before it fails prevents costly damage and keeps your home safe. Watch for these warning signs:
- Age: Most systems last 6–12 years
- Rust-colored or cloudy water
- Rumbling or popping noises
- Water pooling around the tank
- Hot water running out faster than usual
- Increasing energy bills
If you notice any of these signals, it’s best to schedule a replacement before you’re stuck without hot water.
4: What to Expect During Installation
A professional installation ensures safety, code compliance, and performance. When you schedule through TrustedHotWater.com:
- Your quote is guaranteed, not an estimate
- Installers are licensed, insured, and background-checked
- Most jobs are completed same day or next day
- We handle removal and disposal of the old unit
- All installation materials and safety upgrades are included
- You receive a clear walkthrough of the new system and safety instructions
We make the process as smooth and transparent as possible — no surprises when the installer arrives.
5: Costs & Total Ownership Value
The true cost of a water heater includes both the equipment and long-term operating expenses.
What influences cost:
- Size and fuel type
- Venting and gas line requirements
- Local codes and permitting
- Location of the water heater in your home
- Optional safety upgrades
- Energy efficiency rating
With a transparent, upfront quote, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying before scheduling installation — with no hidden fees.
Pro Tip: A good way to compare different water heater quotes is to calculate “cost per day” by dividing the total price by the number of days of warranty. For example, if the tank has a 10 year warranty (3,650 days) and a quoted price of $3,500, the cost per day is $0.96 per day.
6: Safety & Code Requirements
Water heaters must be installed to meet local plumbing codes and safety standards.These rules protect your home from gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks, water damage, and electrical hazards.
Your installation may require:
- Sediment traps
- Pressure and temperature (T&P) discharge piping
- Seismic strapping
- Proper venting (especially for gas units)
- Drip pans in certain locations
- Permit and inspection
Our team handles every requirement on your behalf so you don’t have to navigate city codes or scheduling inspections.
7: Why Same-Day Installation Matters
When your water heater fails, you need hot water restored fast — and waiting days for a quote or appointment isn’t an option.
Our process eliminates delays by offering:
- Instant guaranteed pricing
- Real-time scheduling
- Same-day installation availability
- No in-home sales appointments
You stay in control of the process from start to finish.
Homeowner Buyer’s Rights (PDF)
Understand your rights when hiring a licensed professional to replace your water heater. This guide explains pricing transparency, permit obligations, workmanship expectations, warranty coverage, and what to do if something doesn’t go as planned.
Water Heater Maintenance Checklist (PDF)
A simple, step-by-step checklist to help you extend the life of your water heater. Includes safety inspections, annual tasks, efficiency tips, and signs that maintenance is needed. Perfect to print or store on your phone.
Hot Water Safety Guide (PDF)
Protect your family and your home with practical safety tips every homeowner should know. This guide covers recommended temperature settings, burn-prevention best practices, child safety considerations, how to prevent scalding, and simple steps to reduce risk from pressure buildup or leaks. Includes safety recommendations recognized across plumbing, home-inspection, and manufacturer standards.
Purchase or Lease? Choosing the Best Water Heater Option (PDF)
Not sure whether you should buy a new water heater outright or consider a worry-free lease program? This guide explains the pros, cons, and financial differences of each option — including upfront cost, long-term value, warranty coverage, repair responsibilities, and how monthly leasing works. A clear comparison chart helps you choose the option that fits your budget and your home’s needs.
Experience the Better Way to Buy a Water Heater
Skip the in-home sales visit. Get your guaranteed price and choose a convenient
installation time — often the very same day.