Best Water Heater Installation Companies in Florida Ranked

A reliable hot water heater is essential for comfort in any Florida home, from morning showers to evening dishwashing. When your unit fails or becomes inefficient, navigating the options for a new installation or replacement can feel overwhelming. This guide provides clear, practical information on selecting the right system, understanding Florida's specific installation codes, and budgeting for the project. Use this resource to make an informed decision and connect with qualified local professionals who can ensure your new water heater is installed safely and correctly.

Mechanical One

217 N Westmonte Dr #1007, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

Mechanical One is a full-service HVAC, plumbing, gas, and electrical company based in Altamonte Springs, FL, serving the Orlando area and surrounding communities. They provide a wide range of services including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, and gas line installation. Their licensed technicians work with leading brands and offer capabilities such as gas safety inspections and leak detection to ensure home safety. Mechanical One has been part of the Altamonte Springs community since its founding and offers 24/7 emergency repair services for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and gas line issues.

5.0

2.4k Reviews

Kingdom Based Plumbing

450-106 State Rd 13 N #172, Fruit Cove, FL 32259

Kingdom Based Plumbing is a licensed and insured plumbing service located in Jacksonville, FL. They provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing solutions including sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company uses specialized camera technology to inspect pipes and offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Jacksonville and nearby areas. They also handle insurance-related plumbing work and provide bilingual support in English and Spanish.

5.0

922 Reviews

Totally Hooked Plumbing & Drains

5860 Old Timuquana Rd Suite 3/4, Jacksonville, FL 32210

Totally Hooked Plumbing & Drains is a plumbing company based in Jacksonville, FL, offering a range of services including water heater installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, trenchless sewer repair, and repiping. They use advanced sewer pipe lining technology to provide proactive drain clearing and long-lasting solutions. The company stands behind its work with Florida's best warranty, including a limited lifetime warranty on sewer line replacements and full water repipes, as well as a 10-year warranty on new water heater installations. Totally Hooked Plumbing combines innovative techniques with a community-focused approach to serve Jacksonville residents.

5.0

740 Reviews

PV Plumbing

146 Pienza Ave, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081

PV Plumbing is a family-owned plumbing company based in Ponte Vedra, serving Jacksonville, FL, and nearby communities. They offer a range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, tankless water heater services, water softener installation, leak detection, and drain cleaning. With over 12 years of experience, PV Plumbing handles both residential and commercial plumbing needs using advanced tools and techniques to ensure effective solutions. Their licensed plumbers are known for thorough diagnostics and timely repairs, including specialized capabilities like tankless water heater servicing.

5.0

667 Reviews

Kunes Plumbing

9000 Sheridan St #149, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024

Kunes Plumbing is a licensed and insured plumbing service based near Miami, FL, serving Davie, Cooper City, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, West Park, and surrounding areas. They specialize in water heater repair and installation, as well as toilet repair, providing personalized service with attention to detail. Their team focuses on safe and efficient water heater installations to prevent performance issues and potential hazards. Kunes Plumbing is committed to treating each home with care and respect, ensuring thorough cleanup after work is completed.

5.0

554 Reviews

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Understanding Florida's Water Heater Installation Codes

Installing or replacing a water heater in Florida isn't just about swapping an old tank for a new one. The state enforces specific building codes designed for safety, energy efficiency, and property protection. Adherence to the Florida Building Code (FBC), particularly its Plumbing and Mechanical chapters, is mandatory for all installations ^{1 2 3}.

Key requirements include:

• Manufacturer Instructions: All units must be installed strictly according to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Safety Valves: Every tank-style water heater must have a properly installed temperature and pressure-relief (T&P) valve. The discharge pipe from this valve must terminate in a safe, observable location, such as at the floor or directed outdoors ^{2 4}.
• Drain Pans: If a water heater is installed in a location where a leak could cause significant damage-such as in an attic, above a finished ceiling, or on the same floor level as living space-a drain pan is required. This pan must be made of galvanized steel or high-impact plastic and include a minimum 3/4-inch drain pipe that runs to an approved disposal point ^{2 5}.
• Location Restrictions: For safety, fuel-fired (gas or propane) water heaters generally cannot be installed in bedrooms, bathrooms, or closets that open into these rooms unless the unit is a sealed-combustion or direct-vent model ².
• Garage Safety: In garages, the ignition source of a gas water heater must be elevated at least 18 inches above the floor to prevent ignition of flammable vapors, unless the unit is certified as flammable vapor ignition-resistant ².
• Thermal Expansion Tanks: Florida code requires the installation of a thermal expansion tank in closed plumbing systems with a tank-type water heater. This device manages the increased pressure caused by water expanding as it heats, protecting your plumbing system from stress ⁶.
• Energy Efficiency: New water-heating equipment must meet the minimum efficiency standards, measured by Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), as specified in the Florida Building Code's Energy Conservation tables ^{7 8}.

Working with a licensed plumber ensures your installation meets all these local code requirements, avoiding potential safety hazards and failed inspections.

Choosing the Right Type of Water Heater for Your Home

The ideal water heater for your Florida home depends on your household size, available utilities, budget, and efficiency goals. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

Conventional Storage Tank Heaters: These are the most familiar type, storing a pre-heated reservoir of water (typically 30 to 80 gallons). They are available in electric, natural gas, and propane models.

• Electric: The most common type in many areas, with a relatively low purchase price. However, operating costs can be higher as they use heating elements to directly heat the water ^{9 10}.
• Natural Gas/Propane: These units typically have faster recovery times (heating new water more quickly) and often have lower operating costs than standard electric models, provided gas service is available ^{10 11}.

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters: These units heat water directly as it flows through the device, providing hot water only when needed. They are compact and can provide an endless supply of hot water, but have a higher upfront cost. Proper sizing is critical to meet your home's simultaneous hot water demands ^{12 13}.

Heat Pump Water Heaters (Hybrid): These are highly energy-efficient electric units that work by moving heat from the surrounding air into the water, rather than generating heat directly. They can be two to three times more energy-efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters, leading to significant savings on utility bills, especially in Florida's warm climate. They do have a higher initial cost and require installation in a space with adequate air volume (typically a garage or utility room) ^{10 11} [^35].

Solar Water Heaters: An environmentally friendly option that uses solar thermal collectors on the roof. While they have very low operating costs, the installation cost is high, and a conventional backup system (like an electric or gas heater) is necessary for cloudy days or periods of high demand ^{14 15}.

Sizing Your Water Heater Correctly

Choosing the correct size is crucial for performance and efficiency. An undersized unit will run out of hot water quickly, while an oversized one wastes energy and money.

For Storage Tank Heaters: Sizing is primarily based on the first-hour rating (FHR)-the amount of hot water the heater can supply in an hour-and tank capacity. A general guideline based on household size is:

These are starting points; the number of bathrooms, usage patterns, and the presence of water-efficient fixtures also play a role ^{16 17 18}.

For Tankless Water Heaters: Sizing focuses on flow rate (measured in gallons per minute, or GPM) and the required temperature rise. You must calculate the total GPM needed if multiple fixtures (e.g., two showers and a kitchen faucet) are likely to run simultaneously. A professional can perform a detailed load calculation to determine the right unit ^{12 19 20}.

Cost Overview for Installation and Replacement

The total cost for a new water heater in Florida varies widely based on the equipment type, size, complexity of the installation, and local labor rates. A simple, like-for-like replacement of a standard tank is the most straightforward, while switching fuel types (e.g., electric to gas) or installing a tankless system involves additional work for plumbing, electrical, or gas line modifications, increasing the cost ^{9 21 22}.

Based on current market data, here is a general range of total installed costs (including equipment and labor) ^{23 24 22 25}:

Factors Influencing Cost:

• Unit Type & Efficiency: High-efficiency, hybrid, and tankless models cost more upfront than standard units.
• Installation Complexity: Relocating the unit, upgrading gas lines or electrical circuits, adding a new vent, or installing a required drain pan or expansion tank will add to the labor and materials cost.
• Permits: Most municipalities require a permit for water heater installation, which adds a fee.
• Removal & Disposal: Hauling away the old unit is typically included but may be an extra charge for difficult access.

The most accurate way to budget is to obtain detailed estimates from licensed local plumbers who can assess your specific situation.

The Professional Installation Process

A proper installation by a qualified technician involves several key steps:

1. Assessment & Selection: The technician will evaluate your home's needs, existing plumbing and utility connections, and location to recommend the best type and size of water heater.
2. Shutoff & Drainage: The water and energy supply (gas or electricity) to the old unit are safely shut off, and the old tank is drained.
3. Disconnection & Removal: The old unit is disconnected from water lines, venting (if gas), and electrical supply, then removed.
4. Preparation & Code Compliance: The new location is prepared. This may involve installing a new drain pan, setting up the expansion tank, ensuring proper clearance, and making any necessary upgrades to supply lines or vents to meet current code ^{2 6}.
5. Installation & Connection: The new unit is positioned, leveled, and connected to the water supply, pressure relief valve, and energy source. All connections are checked for leaks.
6. Venting (for gas models): A new or inspected vent pipe is properly installed to safely exhaust combustion gases outdoors.
7. Startup & Testing: The unit is filled with water, purged of air, and powered on. The technician will verify proper operation, check for leaks, test the T&P valve, and set the thermostat to a safe temperature (usually 120°F).

Maintaining Your New Water Heater

To extend the life and efficiency of your investment, follow these maintenance tips:

• Annual Flushing: Sediment (especially from Florida's often hard water) can build up in the tank, reducing efficiency and shortening its life. Draining a few gallons from the tank once a year helps remove this sediment.
• Anode Rod Inspection: The sacrificial anode rod protects the tank from corrosion. Have a professional inspect it every 3-5 years and replace it if heavily corroded.
• Temperature & Pressure Valve Test: Lift the test lever on the T&P valve annually to ensure it operates freely and allows water to discharge.
• Visual Checks: Periodically look for signs of moisture, rust, or corrosion around the base and connections.

Frequently asked questions

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