Water Heater FAQs

Should I replace my old water heater?

There are several crucial signs that could indicate that your old water heater has finally reached the end of its lifespan. If it has, you might be paying more than you should be to heat your home. Read more about the signs that it’s time to replace your water heater.

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Will a tankless water heater work for in my home?

A: Tankless water heaters work in almost every home – in fact, many work where conventional water heaters won’t! Most tankless water are about the size of a briefcase and require about 120V, 60Hz and 3 amps of power – requirements almost any house meets.

Why is my water heater’s pressure relief valve leaking?

A: The pressure relief valve on your hot water heater is designed to vent pressure that builds up so it doesn’t damage your unit. If the valve is leaking, this means the pressure is too high somewhere in yor system and the heater is trying to bleed it out. High pressure in your water heater can be caused by:

• High incoming water pressure from the main water line.
• Thermal expansion (water expanding in volume as it is heated) causing the pressure to build up. This is usually only a problem if you have a backflow preventer that stops water from moving out of the heater.

Can I use a tankless water heater if I have hard water?

A: Yes. In fact, tankless water heaters are less susceptible to the negative effects of hard water than conventional water heaters. That said, they are still affected by it. If you have hard water, it’s best to have water softening treatment whether you use a conventional or tankless water heater.

What’s the average lifespan of a water heater?

Most traditional tank water heaters last about 8–12 years, while tankless water heaters can go 12-25 years, depending on the type, how much you use it, and regular maintenance.
At Barker & Sons Plumbing, we recommend regular maintenance, proper temperature settings, and water treatment to help your water heater last as long as possible. With our Home Protection Club, you also get extended warranties and routine maintenance, keeping your family’s hot water flowing safely and efficiently for years to come.
Think of it as giving your water heater the care and attention it deserves, so your family never has to deal with cold showers or unexpected repairs.

Are permits included in installation estimates?

Yes. At Barker and Sons Plumbing, if permits or city inspections are required, we can include them in your estimate.
Different cities may have different requirements for whole-house repiping. Some may require permits before work begins, and others may also require inspections during and after the project to ensure everything is done safely and up to code for your home or business. We take care of this process for you so you don’t have to worry about paperwork or city requirements. Our team will guide you through what’s needed and keep everything moving smoothly from start to finish.

Do you price by unit size, energy type, or efficiency rating?

Yes—pricing varies by unit size, energy source (gas vs. electric), and efficiency rating. Larger households or higher-demand businesses may require higher-capacity units. High-efficiency models can involve additional installation steps but reduce long-term energy and operating costs. We’ll review your needs and recommend the right system before quoting.

How do tankless water heater installation costs compare to tank systems?

Tankless systems typically cost more upfront than traditional tank systems because they often require gas line modifications, venting changes, electrical work, and sometimes a water softener to protect the unit from hard-water scale. Typical tankless installation: $5,500–$12,000+, depending on system size, existing plumbing condition, and required upgrades. The higher upfront cost is often offset over time by endless hot water, energy efficiency, longer lifespan (12–25 years), and reduced space requirements.

How do you price water heater repairs?

Water heater repair pricing depends on the failed part, the labor involved, the type of system (tank vs. tankless), and whether the unit is still under warranty. Most traditional tank water heaters last 8–12 years; tankless units typically last 12–25 years depending on usage, water quality, and maintenance. We specialize in Bradford White and Rinnai systems, and Home Protection Club members may receive extended warranty benefits, routine maintenance, and added protection that reduces unexpected repair costs.

What affects replacement cost?

Several factors can affect the final replacement cost of a water heater, including code upgrades, venting changes, drain pans, earthquake straps, permits, water conditioning needs, accessibility, relocation of the unit, or plumbing and gas line modifications.
Water quality can also play a role, homes or businesses with hard water may benefit from water conditioning solutions to help protect the new system and extend its lifespan.
Every home or business is different, which is why our technician will assess the installation area carefully and explain any additional work that may be needed before moving forward. We take the time to walk you through everything in a clear and friendly way so you feel comfortable and confident in your decision.
Our goal is to provide safe, reliable, and long-lasting solutions that protect your home or business and give you peace of mind throughout the entire process.

What are typical price ranges for installing a traditional tank water heater?

Traditional tank water heater installation typically ranges from $2,999–$8,500+, depending on unit size, permit requirements, code upgrades, accessibility, and overall installation complexity. We provide clear, upfront estimates before any work begins so you know exactly what’s included.

What factors affect the cost to repair a water heater?

Several factors affect water heater repair costs: age of the unit, brand, type of failure, parts availability, and the quality of any previous installation work. Older systems can require more extensive repairs, and some replacement parts are harder to source for older or discontinued models. Tank and tankless systems have different parts and repair methods, which also affects cost. Warranty coverage may offset some costs depending on the manufacturer and unit age.

What are the benefits of having a water softener?

A water softener helps remove hard minerals like calcium and magnesium from your water. These minerals can uild up in your pipes, wear down appliances, and leave spots on dishes and faucets.
With a water softener from Barker & Sons Plumbing, you’ll protect your plumbing, extend the life of your appliances, and enjoy water that’s gentler on your family’s skin and hair. Soft water also makes cleaning easier and keeps your home look its best, without the constant battle with mineral buildup. Think of it as giving your water a little TLC, so your plumbing and your family stay happy and healthy.