Hot Water
Hot Water | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Delano
Nothing hits the spot like a steamy shower on a chilly Delano morning—unless your water runs cold right when you need it most. HEP’s seasoned plumbing pros keep that from happening with fast, friendly service for every kind of tank water heater, from classic gas models to today’s high-efficiency electrics. We inspect, flush, repair, and replace units with precision, so you enjoy consistent temperature, lower utility bills, and peace of mind backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
Whether you’re outfitting a new home or finally upgrading an aging unit, you can count on transparent pricing, same-day appointments, and workmanship that’s built to last. Skip the guesswork and let HEP handle sizing, permitting, and safe installation—so the only thing you have to think about is how long you can linger under that perfect stream of hot water. Reach out today and discover why Delano homeowners trust us to keep the comfort flowing, one tank water heater at a time.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my home in Delano?
Sizing depends on the number of people, simultaneous hot-water activities (showers, laundry, dishes), and fuel type. A typical rule of thumb is 30–40 gal for 1–2 occupants, 40–50 gal for 3–4, and 50–80 gal for 5 or more. If your family often runs two showers and a dishwasher at once, consider the next size up or a high-recovery model. We offer a free in-home consultation to calculate your peak-hour demand and recommend the right capacity.
How long does it take to install or replace a tank water heater?
For a like-for-like replacement, most installs in Delano take 2–4 hours, including draining the old tank, setting the new unit, connecting water, gas or electric, and bringing everything up to code with earthquake straps and a drip pan. If new gas lines, venting, or an expansion tank are required, the job can extend to 4–6 hours. We schedule arrival windows and carry common sizes on our truck so most customers enjoy hot water again the same day.
Are energy-efficient models available, and how much can they save on Delano utility bills?
Yes. ENERGY STAR® gas units with high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF 0.64–0.70) and electric heat-pump hybrids (UEF 3.0+) consume 10–60 % less energy than standard models. In Delano, where PG&E natural-gas rates average $1.70/therm and electricity is about 30¢/kWh, a family of four can save $40–$120 a year by upgrading. Rebates from SoCalGas or the TECH Clean California program can offset $100–$800 of the upfront cost, and we’ll process the paperwork for you.
How often should I flush or maintain my tank water heater given Delano’s hard-water conditions?
Kern County water is moderately hard (10–15 grains per gallon), so mineral buildup happens faster. We recommend draining 2–3 gal from the drain valve every six months and performing a full flush annually. During annual service we also test the temperature-pressure relief valve, inspect the anode rod (replace if corroded more than 50 %), check gas burners or heating elements, and verify seismic straps. Regular maintenance can add 3–5 years to the life of your heater and keep the warranty valid.
What warning signs mean my current water heater needs repair or replacement?
• Water taking longer to heat or running out faster than usual • Rust-colored or metallic-tasting hot water • Rumbling or popping noises (sediment boiling) • Moisture, rust, or puddles around the base • Pilot won’t stay lit or frequent breaker trips If your tank is over 10 years old and showing any of these symptoms, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair. We’ll inspect the unit, give you a clear estimate, and credit the service fee toward a new installation if you choose to replace.
Do I need a permit or inspection for a new water heater installation in Delano?
Yes. California Plumbing Code and the City of Delano require a mechanical/plumbing permit for any water heater replacement. The final inspection confirms proper venting, seismic bracing, temperature-pressure relief valve discharge, and, for closed plumbing systems, an expansion tank. We pull all necessary permits, schedule the inspection, and guarantee the installation passes—or we fix it at no charge.