Where the differences come from
The biggest differences come from the category of appliance you choose, and from how much of the existing installation needs bringing up to current code. Both belong on the quote in writing, itemised separately.
What a complete quote includes
A proper replacement quote should cover more than the heater itself:
- The new heater, with its size and fuel type named
- Removal and disposal of the old tank
- Earthquake straps, which California requires
- A new relief valve discharge pipe routed to a safe spot
- Gas connector, shutoff valve and sediment trap on gas models
- Any venting changes the new heater needs
- The permit and city inspection
If a low quote leaves out straps, the permit or venting, the gap will show up later as a failed inspection or a safety problem.
Tank or tankless
A standard tank costs less to buy and install, and it usually connects to the existing gas line and flue. It stores a fixed amount of hot water, so a busy household can run out.
A tankless unit heats water on demand and doesn’t run out. The installed price is higher because many homes need a larger gas line, new venting and an outlet for the unit’s controls. It can pay back over time if you stay in the house for years.
Why La Habra’s water matters to the cost
The City of La Habra publishes annual water quality reports that include a measurement of water hardness. Harder water leaves more mineral sediment in a tank heater and more scale in a tankless unit. Over the life of the heater, that means more flushing, and it can shorten the life of the tank or the heat exchanger. If you’re comparing tank and tankless, factor in a yearly flush for either one.
Comparing quotes
Ask each plumber the same questions, then compare:
- What size and model are you installing, and what’s the warranty?
- Does the price include straps, the relief valve pipe, venting and the permit?
- Will the gas line or meter need upgrading?
- Who books the inspection?
- Is haul-away of the old tank included?