We started Better Water Heaters to provide fair pricing and quality service to the customers seeking water heater service or replacement. The truth is, most companies overcharge because they know you need hot water immediately and will probably pay a lot to get it quick. My typical customer is one who has price shopped the competition and have decided most companies either charge way too much or are hard to pin down to a firm price. We understand. You simply need a water heater and don’t want to deal with a sleazy salesman…you want to talk to a plumber….so give us a call and we’ll talk. At Better Water Heaters we do something quite rare in the plumbing business- install water heaters for a fair price. We grow our business one satisfied customer at a time; we don’t take advantage of a plumbing emergency and charge unreasonably. Your referral is important to us that is why we always will work to insure your complete satisfaction. We’re a small company and we keep our overhead low, because of this we don’t need to charge unreasonably. Of course we are licensed, bonded and insured and are very experienced at water heater installation and repair. We are experts in convention water heater repair and replacement, Tankless water heater installation, and other plumbing issues. We are the only water heater installation company in northern California that has earned the prestigious DIAMOND CERTIFICATION. We are also member of the Better Business Bureau. Our advertised prices include a quality water heater, basic installation and disposal of your old unit; Extra parts and labor required to do the job right, are additional. Call us for all your water heating needs. Estimates are always free and we never charge extra for nights, weekends, or holidays.
"Better Water Heater installed our tankless water heater incorrectly, creating a significant safety hazard for our tenant, an African American family of 5 with 3 small children. After a contractor from AHS reviewed the installation, they confirmed multiple issues, including code violations and fire risks. Major Problems with the Installation: Unsafe placement in a closet - The condensate has no proper drainage, which could lead to mold, rust, and fire hazards. Improper use of an evaporator pan - This pan is not intended for water heaters, creating a fire risk in an enclosed space. Oversized unit for our home - The Rinnai RU160iN is designed for larger homes. It's far too big for our 1-bed, 1-bath house, making it inefficient. Insufficient gas line - According to AHS, the gas line is too small to support this oversized unit, which could lead to gas flow issues or even pose a fire hazard. The city won't allow this installation to pass inspection because the gas line doesn't meet the required capacity. Permit/code violations - The installation was done without a permit and violates multiple building codes. When we confronted the company, they insisted their work was done correctly. Their "solution"? If we wanted the job to be done legally, we would have to pay for both the permit, their time working with inspectors, and additional costs to fix their mistakes--$995 for a bigger gas line to support the oversized unit. On top of that, they quoted us $585 for permit costs, even though the city building department told us the permit fee is only $150. Bottom Line: If you want a safe, legal, and code-compliant installation, DO NOT trust Better Water Heater. They cut corners, refuse accountability, and expect customers to pay extra to fix their mistakes."
Han-Shen Y on February 2025
We started Better Water Heaters to provide fair pricing and quality service to the customers seeking water heater service or replacement. The truth is, most companies overcharge because they know you need hot water immediately and will probably pay a lot to get it quick. My typical customer is one who has price shopped the competition and have decided most companies either charge way too much or are hard to pin down to a firm price. We understand. You simply need a water heater and don’t want to deal with a sleazy salesman…you want to talk to a plumber….so give us a call and we’ll talk. At Better Water Heaters we do something quite rare in the plumbing business- install water heaters for a fair price. We grow our business one satisfied customer at a time; we don’t take advantage of a plumbing emergency and charge unreasonably. Your referral is important to us that is why we always will work to insure your complete satisfaction. We’re a small company and we keep our overhead low, because of this we don’t need to charge unreasonably. Of course we are licensed, bonded and insured and are very experienced at water heater installation and repair. We are experts in convention water heater repair and replacement, Tankless water heater installation, and other plumbing issues. We are the only water heater installation company in northern California that has earned the prestigious DIAMOND CERTIFICATION. We are also member of the Better Business Bureau. Our advertised prices include a quality water heater, basic installation and disposal of your old unit; Extra parts and labor required to do the job right, are additional. Call us for all your water heating needs. Estimates are always free and we never charge extra for nights, weekends, or holidays.
"Better Water Heater installed our tankless water heater incorrectly, creating a significant safety hazard for our tenant, an African American family of 5 with 3 small children. After a contractor from AHS reviewed the installation, they confirmed multiple issues, including code violations and fire risks. Major Problems with the Installation: Unsafe placement in a closet - The condensate has no proper drainage, which could lead to mold, rust, and fire hazards. Improper use of an evaporator pan - This pan is not intended for water heaters, creating a fire risk in an enclosed space. Oversized unit for our home - The Rinnai RU160iN is designed for larger homes. It's far too big for our 1-bed, 1-bath house, making it inefficient. Insufficient gas line - According to AHS, the gas line is too small to support this oversized unit, which could lead to gas flow issues or even pose a fire hazard. The city won't allow this installation to pass inspection because the gas line doesn't meet the required capacity. Permit/code violations - The installation was done without a permit and violates multiple building codes. When we confronted the company, they insisted their work was done correctly. Their "solution"? If we wanted the job to be done legally, we would have to pay for both the permit, their time working with inspectors, and additional costs to fix their mistakes--$995 for a bigger gas line to support the oversized unit. On top of that, they quoted us $585 for permit costs, even though the city building department told us the permit fee is only $150. Bottom Line: If you want a safe, legal, and code-compliant installation, DO NOT trust Better Water Heater. They cut corners, refuse accountability, and expect customers to pay extra to fix their mistakes."
Han-Shen Y on February 2025
With over 17 years of experience in the Bay Area, we are proud to offer an extensive array of HVAC solutions for all you indoor comfort needs. Our team of professionally trained and certified advisors and installers provide quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We are determined to go the extra mile to ensure that all of our customers are happy homeowners! We work closely with each individual client to fully understand their unique needs, preferences and budget. Our commitment to customer satisfaction means we won't rest until you are 100% satisfied. Specializing in heating and air conditioning replacement and repairs, furnace and heat pump upgrades and ductless systems. We also provide in depth assessments for air duct repair and replacements. Our Innovative approach to newer HVAC technology for home additions, ADU's and eco-concious homes is unparalled in the local industry.
"Tech said that the Freon leaked out and that the compressor burned out because of it. Quoted $4800 to replace compressor and recharge, or $7,000 for a new AC unit. Got a second opinion and hired a handyman. Turns out the breaker was tripped and needed some fiddling with. AC works great now. Can’t believe they were going to lie about what was wrong to replace the whole AC. Just because it was an old unit. Get a second opinion for them if they tell you something similar."
John N on July 2018
With over 17 years of experience in the Bay Area, we are proud to offer an extensive array of HVAC solutions for all you indoor comfort needs. Our team of professionally trained and certified advisors and installers provide quality workmanship and excellent customer service. We are determined to go the extra mile to ensure that all of our customers are happy homeowners! We work closely with each individual client to fully understand their unique needs, preferences and budget. Our commitment to customer satisfaction means we won't rest until you are 100% satisfied. Specializing in heating and air conditioning replacement and repairs, furnace and heat pump upgrades and ductless systems. We also provide in depth assessments for air duct repair and replacements. Our Innovative approach to newer HVAC technology for home additions, ADU's and eco-concious homes is unparalled in the local industry.
"Tech said that the Freon leaked out and that the compressor burned out because of it. Quoted $4800 to replace compressor and recharge, or $7,000 for a new AC unit. Got a second opinion and hired a handyman. Turns out the breaker was tripped and needed some fiddling with. AC works great now. Can’t believe they were going to lie about what was wrong to replace the whole AC. Just because it was an old unit. Get a second opinion for them if they tell you something similar."
John N on July 2018
Payless Water Heaters provides Same day water heater Installation & Repair services. We also can install a New Tankless Water Heater the same day. We understand how important hot water is to your daily routine - Our team has over 30 years of combined industry-leading experience, which gives us greater insight into locating root problems and providing customized solutions. Unlike some technicians, we carefully survey the unit before starting any repairs. This allows us to accurately address the issue and create lasting solutions. As a Family owned and Locally operated business, we have deep roots in the community. Our mission is simple - provide the ultimate customer experience. This means always being on time, being professional, and being available, With upfront, honest pricing, and no extra charge for nights or weekends - If you're ready to get started, call (888)461-8249 if you need some help.
"It went fine."
Monroe C on December 2021
Payless Water Heaters provides Same day water heater Installation & Repair services. We also can install a New Tankless Water Heater the same day. We understand how important hot water is to your daily routine - Our team has over 30 years of combined industry-leading experience, which gives us greater insight into locating root problems and providing customized solutions. Unlike some technicians, we carefully survey the unit before starting any repairs. This allows us to accurately address the issue and create lasting solutions. As a Family owned and Locally operated business, we have deep roots in the community. Our mission is simple - provide the ultimate customer experience. This means always being on time, being professional, and being available, With upfront, honest pricing, and no extra charge for nights or weekends - If you're ready to get started, call (888)461-8249 if you need some help.
"It went fine."
Monroe C on December 2021
We specialize in plumbing, remodels, electrical, heating, and wall texture. We have a vision of having a reputation with our community where we take pride in our work, building life long friendships, and sharing the joy of problem solving with high level craftsmanship.
"Austin did a great job finding and repairing a leak in a second floor wall that came from the attic and ran down to the first floor ceiling. Required much removal and repair. Excellent job! Austin also rerouted a drain pipe and repaired copper plumbing. I will call Austin, Dust's Artisan Plumbing and Remodeling, again for other projects in my house. Excellent work, Austin!"
John S on April 2025
We specialize in plumbing, remodels, electrical, heating, and wall texture. We have a vision of having a reputation with our community where we take pride in our work, building life long friendships, and sharing the joy of problem solving with high level craftsmanship.
"Austin did a great job finding and repairing a leak in a second floor wall that came from the attic and ran down to the first floor ceiling. Required much removal and repair. Excellent job! Austin also rerouted a drain pipe and repaired copper plumbing. I will call Austin, Dust's Artisan Plumbing and Remodeling, again for other projects in my house. Excellent work, Austin!"
John S on April 2025
Oak Plumbing is a locally owned and operated plumbing company serving Solano, Marin & Contra Costa Counties. We provide options to prevent, repair, and maintain your water system to best fit your family’s needs. Our goal is to bring customer service back to the plumbing industry. We specialize in residential plumbing repair as well as preventative maintenance. We offer up-front pricing and also Pace financing to be able to service everyone equally. We want to fix the cause of the problem, not just the symptom. Safety is extremely important to us which is why all our technicians are fully trained, background checked, and drug tested.
"Excellent. Two employees did the job. Nice guys. Very polite and they were able to complete a complex job on time. I would definitely hire this company if I ever needed a plumber. The guy who sold us on the job was extremely knowledgeable which is why I selected this company."
Michael D on April 2025
Oak Plumbing is a locally owned and operated plumbing company serving Solano, Marin & Contra Costa Counties. We provide options to prevent, repair, and maintain your water system to best fit your family’s needs. Our goal is to bring customer service back to the plumbing industry. We specialize in residential plumbing repair as well as preventative maintenance. We offer up-front pricing and also Pace financing to be able to service everyone equally. We want to fix the cause of the problem, not just the symptom. Safety is extremely important to us which is why all our technicians are fully trained, background checked, and drug tested.
"Excellent. Two employees did the job. Nice guys. Very polite and they were able to complete a complex job on time. I would definitely hire this company if I ever needed a plumber. The guy who sold us on the job was extremely knowledgeable which is why I selected this company."
Michael D on April 2025
Marvin Plumbing is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business. 10 years of experience.
Marvin Plumbing is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business. 10 years of experience.
Albert Nahman Services was founded in 1981 and has been serving Berkeley, CA and it surrounding areas in all their plumbing and HVAC needs. Each of our technicians went through rigorous training so we can guarantee that you will be receiving the proper service. We are also insured and supply a warranty for our parts for five years and up to twenty years on an re-piping or sewer replacement. Call us now to make your appointment!
"10/6/2024 - Ongoing Toilet Leak Issue – Unresolved Since February Dear Albert Nahman Plumbing, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my extreme frustration regarding the ongoing toilet leak issue that has yet to be resolved, despite numerous attempts to rectify it. The problem began in February 2024, when my toilet started leaking and refilling its tank every 2 to 4 hours. Since March 18, 2024, I have had five appointments with your team to address this issue. I have paid a total of $545 for a new canister flush valve and a new toilet fill valve, yet the toilet continues to leak exactly the same way it did before. What is particularly disheartening is the lack of communication since August. I have repeatedly tried to reach out via email and phone, but my messages have gone unanswered (August to October). I chose your company based on your good ratings and the assumption that I would receive quality service from a licensed plumber. Unfortunately, my experience has been quite the opposite. I would appreciate a prompt response to this matter and a clear plan for how we can finally resolve the leak. Thank you for your attention to this urgent issue. Sincerely, Andreas"
Andreas Z on October 2024
Albert Nahman Services was founded in 1981 and has been serving Berkeley, CA and it surrounding areas in all their plumbing and HVAC needs. Each of our technicians went through rigorous training so we can guarantee that you will be receiving the proper service. We are also insured and supply a warranty for our parts for five years and up to twenty years on an re-piping or sewer replacement. Call us now to make your appointment!
"10/6/2024 - Ongoing Toilet Leak Issue – Unresolved Since February Dear Albert Nahman Plumbing, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my extreme frustration regarding the ongoing toilet leak issue that has yet to be resolved, despite numerous attempts to rectify it. The problem began in February 2024, when my toilet started leaking and refilling its tank every 2 to 4 hours. Since March 18, 2024, I have had five appointments with your team to address this issue. I have paid a total of $545 for a new canister flush valve and a new toilet fill valve, yet the toilet continues to leak exactly the same way it did before. What is particularly disheartening is the lack of communication since August. I have repeatedly tried to reach out via email and phone, but my messages have gone unanswered (August to October). I chose your company based on your good ratings and the assumption that I would receive quality service from a licensed plumber. Unfortunately, my experience has been quite the opposite. I would appreciate a prompt response to this matter and a clear plan for how we can finally resolve the leak. Thank you for your attention to this urgent issue. Sincerely, Andreas"
Andreas Z on October 2024
From drain cleaning to plumbing upgrades, GM Pro Plumbing & Rooter offers variety of professional plumbing solutions, in addition to offering emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day, 7 day a week, our professional plumbers offers quick fixes for clogged drains ,toilet repair or new installation ,hot water heater repair or new installation, faucets , sewer inspection, main water line fro street to the house, water leak detection, & much more the professional at GM Pro Plumbing & Rooter can help you with any and all of your plumbing needs.
From drain cleaning to plumbing upgrades, GM Pro Plumbing & Rooter offers variety of professional plumbing solutions, in addition to offering emergency plumbing services 24 hours a day, 7 day a week, our professional plumbers offers quick fixes for clogged drains ,toilet repair or new installation ,hot water heater repair or new installation, faucets , sewer inspection, main water line fro street to the house, water leak detection, & much more the professional at GM Pro Plumbing & Rooter can help you with any and all of your plumbing needs.
We are a small family owned business and our reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time. In a time where finding honest and well trained experts in the plumbing industry is difficult, we pride ourselves in serving you better. We know you have choices and will make every effort to demonstrate that we are the best option for your water heater, tankless water heater, and high efficiency water heater needs. We offer competitive pricing, the best products, and most important great customer service. We also want to do work for your friends and family, so the best endorsement for us is a job well done and a happy customer. We do standard water heater repairs and replacement but also bigger projects like relocation jobs and tankless water heater installations to name a few. Our technicians are highly experienced and have installed thousands of water heaters. Call or text us at 925-817-8342 for a free estimate. We serve residential or commercial customers, including apartments and condos.
"Quite excellent with relatively affordable compare to other provider ( although still expensive ). I would recommend. Excellent service."
Bill Y on December 2024
We are a small family owned business and our reputation is built one satisfied customer at a time. In a time where finding honest and well trained experts in the plumbing industry is difficult, we pride ourselves in serving you better. We know you have choices and will make every effort to demonstrate that we are the best option for your water heater, tankless water heater, and high efficiency water heater needs. We offer competitive pricing, the best products, and most important great customer service. We also want to do work for your friends and family, so the best endorsement for us is a job well done and a happy customer. We do standard water heater repairs and replacement but also bigger projects like relocation jobs and tankless water heater installations to name a few. Our technicians are highly experienced and have installed thousands of water heaters. Call or text us at 925-817-8342 for a free estimate. We serve residential or commercial customers, including apartments and condos.
"Quite excellent with relatively affordable compare to other provider ( although still expensive ). I would recommend. Excellent service."
Bill Y on December 2024
Smart Heating and Air Conditioning has what you need when it comes to AC Repair and Furnace Repair, with over 20+ years of experience. From small to large A/C Repair or Furnace Repair to routine maintenance, Smart Heating and Air Conditioning specializes in repair, service and maintenance of your home's Central Heating & Cooling, Ductwork, or Indoor Air Quality / Filtration. Not to mention Smart HVAC excellent equipment replacement and installations. Cities we service throughout Contra Costa and Alameda County include: Alameda, Alamo, Antioch, Berkeley, Brentwood, Clayton, Clyde, Concord, Danville, Diablo, Discovery Bay, Dublin, El Cerrito, Hayward, Hercules, Kensington, Lafayette, Livermore, Martinez, Montclair, Moraga, Oakland, Oakley, Orinda, Piedmont, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, Rossmoor, San Ramon, San Leandro and Walnut Creek, CA. Call today for your free estimate on equipment.
"Came out and looked over the furnace to make sure it's all ok. Looked at a lot of inner parts, cleaned some of them with fine tools. Worth it!"
MATT W on December 2024
Smart Heating and Air Conditioning has what you need when it comes to AC Repair and Furnace Repair, with over 20+ years of experience. From small to large A/C Repair or Furnace Repair to routine maintenance, Smart Heating and Air Conditioning specializes in repair, service and maintenance of your home's Central Heating & Cooling, Ductwork, or Indoor Air Quality / Filtration. Not to mention Smart HVAC excellent equipment replacement and installations. Cities we service throughout Contra Costa and Alameda County include: Alameda, Alamo, Antioch, Berkeley, Brentwood, Clayton, Clyde, Concord, Danville, Diablo, Discovery Bay, Dublin, El Cerrito, Hayward, Hercules, Kensington, Lafayette, Livermore, Martinez, Montclair, Moraga, Oakland, Oakley, Orinda, Piedmont, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, Rossmoor, San Ramon, San Leandro and Walnut Creek, CA. Call today for your free estimate on equipment.
"Came out and looked over the furnace to make sure it's all ok. Looked at a lot of inner parts, cleaned some of them with fine tools. Worth it!"
MATT W on December 2024
The average cost to install a new water heater is around $1,300, but you can expect to pay between $875 and $1,750, depending on the kind of water heater, the size of the unit, and the professional chosen to complete the work. Tankless water heaters can push your price higher, as installation is more complicated, with prices as high as $3,500. The location and accessibility of your water heater will play a role in the project cost, as those sitting in tight spaces like a crawl space will drive up your labor costs.
Yes, most states require plumbers to be licensed, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed plumber could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations.
As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include:
The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi
Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.
Yes, most states require HVAC technicians to be certified, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed HVAC technician could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations.
As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include:
The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi
Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.
It is very difficult and dangerous to install your own water heater, so we strongly recommend against tackling this as a DIY project. Not only will you need to wire your water heater, but you’ll also need to connect plumbing to the intake and outlet. Sweating copper pipes and connecting wiring properly are skills most DIYers don’t have, and even if you do feel confident you can do it, working with water and electricity always leaves the potential for electrocution. Hiring a local water heater installer is well worth the investment.
The average cost to hire a plumber is around $100 an hour but can vary between $45 and $200 an hour depending on the plumber’s experience and the repair that you need. It’s also important to note that these prices can go up on holidays, and emergency plumber rates average $150 per hour, in addition to a flat-rate trip fee of $100 to $350.