Gas & Electric Tank Water Heaters in San Diego
When it comes to reliable hot water, most San Diego homeowners still trust traditional gas and electric tank water heaters. At American Plumbing Co. | Plumber in San Diego.
We’ve been installing, repairing, and replacing water heaters for over 40 years. With hundreds of 5-Star Google reviews, an A+ BBB rating, and ZERO Complaints with the California State Contractors Board, we’re the trusted choice for hot water solutions across the county.
Why Choose a Tank Water Heater?
Not every home needs a high-tech system. For many families, a standard tank water heater is the most affordable and practical option. These units store hot water in a tank, ensuring a steady supply is always ready.
Affordable upfront cost compared to tankless models
Reliable performance for decades of use
Variety of sizes to match your household needs
Gas vs. Electric Tank Water Heaters – Which Is Right for You?

Gas Tank Water Heaters
Heats water quickly and efficiently
Often has lower monthly costs (depending on natural gas prices)
Can continue working even during a power outage
Electric Tank Water Heaters
Simple installation without gas lines
Safer with no combustion risk
Available in high-efficiency models for reduced utility bills
At American Plumbing Co., we’ll help you choose the right option for your budget, family size, and energy preferences.
Our Tank Water Heater Services Since the 1980s
Installation & Replacement
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an outdated unit, we provide expert water heater installation of top brands like Rheem, Bradford White, and AO Smith. We’ll size the system correctly, install it to code, and haul away your old water heater at no extra cost.
Tank Water Heater Repair
From thermostat failures to leaking shut-off valves, our plumbers quickly diagnose and fix problems to get your hot water flowing again.
Maintenance Services
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your tank water heater:
Annual tank flushing to prevent sediment buildup
Anode rod replacement to stop corrosion
Remove and replace excessively corrosive water heater connections
Signs You May Need a New Tank Water Heater

It might be time for replacement if you notice:
Rust-colored water
Inconsistent or no hot water
Tank leaks or corrosion around the base
Your unit is 10–12 years old or older
Turns off and needs to be relit often
The water heater has a small leak
- Additionally, switching out the old one and installing a new one will result in less energy being used by the new one.
- High Water pressure also causes the plumbing fixtures to wear out sooner. We check water pressure regulators for Free.
Energy-Efficient & High-Capacity Options
Today’s tank water heaters are smarter, more efficient, and built to last longer than ever before. At American Plumbing Co., a Plumber in San Diego, we offer a wide range of models designed to lower your energy bills while delivering reliable hot water for your household.
High-Recovery Models – Perfect for large families or homes with multiple bathrooms, these units can heat water faster and recover more quickly after heavy usage. No more cold showers when everyone’s getting ready at the same time.
Enhanced Tank Insulation – Newer tanks are built with advanced insulation that reduces heat loss, meaning your system doesn’t have to work as hard to keep water hot — saving you money every month.
Eco-Friendly & Low-Emission Units – We install Energy Star® certified models and low-NOx water heaters that meet California’s strict environmental standards, making them safer for your home and the environment.
High-Capacity Systems – Whether you need a 30, 40, or 50-gallon tank for a family home, we’ll size your system to ensure you never run out of hot water.
Smart Technology Integration – Some modern tank water heaters now feature smart controls, letting you monitor usage, adjust temperatures, and even set schedules from your phone for maximum efficiency.
Rebates & Incentives – Many energy-efficient water heaters qualify for state and federal rebates, which can help offset the cost of upgrading to a new system.
By upgrading to an energy-efficient tank water heater, San Diego homeowners not only enjoy consistent hot water but also save significantly on utility costs while meeting the latest performance and environmental standards.

Why San Diego Homeowners Trust American Plumbing Co.

Serving The San Diego Area since 1983
Licensed & certified plumbers, not subcontractors
Emergency service 7 days a week
Honest, affordable pricing with free estimates
- Top-rated plumbing Service.
With our decades of experience, you get more than just a water heater — you get peace of mind.
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Service Areas
We install and repair water heaters across San Diego, including:
La Mesa
North Park
Clairemont
Del Cerro
Logan Heights
Paradise Hills
And all surrounding cities and neighborhoods
FAQs About Gas & Electric Tank Water Heaters
Q1: How long does a tank water heater last?.
Most gas and electric tank water heaters last 10–12 years. Hard water in San Diego can shorten the lifespan of water heaters. Still, regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank, can add years of reliable service.
Q2: What size water heater do I need?
A family of four to five persons typically requires a 40-gallon tank, while a 50-gallon tank usually accommodates 5 to 7 people. This depends on the length of the shower that each person takes.
Smaller households of 2 to 3 persons can often use a 30-gallon model. We size your system to ensure consistent hot water without overspending. But this depends on the length of the shower taken.
Q3: Which is cheaper to run — gas or electric?
Gas water heaters typically cost less to run since gas heats water faster and is usually cheaper than electricity. However, electric models can be more efficient, safer to install, and better if you don’t already have a gas line.
Yes, we provide same-day water heater replacement across San Diego. On most occasions, we will be able to install the water heater the same day.
Q4: Can you replace my water heater the same day?
Yes, we provide same-day water heater replacement across San Diego. On most occasions, we will be able to install the water heater the same day.
Q5: Do you haul away the old unit after replacement?
Yes, we always remove and dispose of your old water heater as part of our service. No extra fees or hassle — we take care of everything from disconnecting to hauling away.