Business Details
24 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Water Heater Experts in the Bay Area
Better Water Heaters is a licensed, family-owned business serving the Bay Area since 2002. Specializing in water heater repair, replacement, and installation, we cater to residential and commercial clients across Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties. Our team of certified technicians delivers fast, friendly, and fair service, prioritizing customer satisfaction through transparent pricing and quality workmanship. With over two decades of experience, we partner with leading brands like Rinnai, Bradford White, and Rheem to ensure reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties.We offer same-day emergency services, free estimates, and energy-efficient solutions, including tankless and heat pump water heaters. Our commitment to excellence extends to routine maintenance, seismic valve installations, and water quality testing, ensuring long-term system performance. As Bay Area residents ourselves, we understand local plumbing needs and adhere to strict code compliance, including disposal of old units and permit handling. Our reputation for honesty and expertise has earned us five-star reviews and loyalty from homeowners and businesses alike.
Services
Conventional Installation
Tankless Installation
Heat Pump Installation
Water Heater Repair
Seismic Valve Installation
Water Quality Testing
Recirculation Pumps
Leak Detection
Annual Maintenance
Permit Handling
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of specialized water heater expertise.
- Our team provides same-day emergency service with no upsells.
- Free in-home estimates and transparent pricing for all services.
- Licensed, insured technicians certified for all water heater types.
- We handle permits, rebates, and code compliance for you.
What people say
Awesome service
Great work
Fair priced
Knowledgeable team
Punctual and courteous
Services
Conventional Water Heater Installation
Replace traditional water heaters in about two hours with American-made Bradford White units. Includes 6-year parts warranty and 2-year labor warranty, extendable to 12 years. Free estimates and $50 discount available. Ensures reliable hot water supply for homes.
Tankless Water Heater Installation
Specializing in Rinnai tankless systems that save energy and provide endless hot water. Qualifies for $900 tax credits. Includes $200 discount on new installations. Lasts longer than traditional tanks and reduces long-term energy costs for Bay Area homeowners.
Heat Pump Water Heater Installation
Rheem heat pump installations save up to $4,900 in rebates and $3,750 in energy costs. $200 discount available. Cools surrounding areas while reducing fossil fuel dependence. Some models require no electrical modifications for easier installation.
Water Heater Repair
Comprehensive repair services for gas, electric, tankless, and heat pump systems. Includes leak detection, valve replacements, and troubleshooting. Offers scheduled maintenance to extend system lifespan and prevent emergencies across three Bay Area counties.
Water Quality Solutions
Free water quality testing followed by filter, softener, or conditioner installations. Improves water heater longevity and reduces fixture stains. Provides point-of-use and whole-house solutions tailored to local water conditions in Santa Clara and beyond.
People
Frans Cartwright
Owner & Water Heater Expert
Licensed technician with decades of Bay Area experience. Leads a certified team specializing in all water heater types. Focuses on fast, affordable service while maintaining deep knowledge of local plumbing codes and energy efficiency standards.
Questions
Are gas water heaters being banned in the Bay Area?
Beginning 2027, new gas tank installations face zero-NOx standards. Existing units can remain until replacement. We help customers transition to compliant tankless or heat pump options.
Do I need a permit for water heater replacement?
Yes, plumbing permits are required. We handle permit acquisition for Bay Area cities, ensuring code compliance during every installation or replacement project.
What rebates are available for heat pump water heaters?
Rebates vary by county but include programs from SVCE, Peninsula Clean Energy, and TECH Clean California. We verify eligibility and assist with application processes.
How quickly can you replace a failed water heater?
Same-day replacements available across Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties. Timing depends on system type and site conditions, with emergency service prioritized.
Do you warranty your installations?
Yes, we provide workmanship warranties alongside manufacturer warranties. All guarantees are detailed in your written proposal before any installation begins.
What service areas do you cover?
We serve all of Santa Clara, Alameda, and San Mateo counties, including San Jose, Fremont, Hayward, and Palo Alto. Fast response times guaranteed for emergency repairs.
