When a Fontana water heater leaks from the tank or can no longer keep up with the household, replacement is usually the sensible fix rather than another repair. Permits go through City of Fontana Building & Safety, which takes applications online through Build Fontana. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Fontana.
How the call works
You'll reach an independent plumber who replaces water heaters in Fontana. Expect a few quick questions: gas or electric, how many gallons, where the heater sits and whether it is leaking right now. If water is on the floor, the plumber may walk you through closing the cold supply to the heater and turning the unit off while you wait.
Most replacements are done in one visit once the new unit is on hand. The old tank is drained and disconnected, the new heater is set and strapped, water and gas or power are reconnected, and the vent and relief valve are checked before the inspection.
Cost factors
- The heater itself: capacity, fuel and efficiency rating
- Vent pipe, gas connector and shutoff valve updates
- Seismic straps, an expansion tank or a drain pan if the install calls for them
- Location: garage, closet, attic or an exterior cabinet
- The city permit, inspection and removal of the old heater
Fontana specifics
Water service in Fontana is split among five providers. Fontana Water Company covers most of the city, while Cucamonga Valley Water District, West Valley Water District, Marygold Mutual Water Company and Crawford Canyon Mutual Water Company each serve defined areas, so who supplies your water depends on the address. The City suggests calling Fontana Water Company first if you are unsure.
Fontana Water Company customers should know its shutoff guidance: the company tells customers not to use the angle stop or meter valve, which it treats as company property, and to close the home's own gate valve instead. That matters on replacement day and during an active tank leak. The company's emergency line is (909) 428-8746.
The median Fontana home was built in 1989, according to city-stats.com, so many houses are on a second heater, and some earlier installs predate today's strapping and venting expectations. While the plumber is there, ask for the gate valve to be tested and tagged so anyone in the house can find it during a future leak.
Before the plumber arrives
- Clear a path to the heater and move stored items away from it
- Find your home's own gate valve for the water supply
- Photograph the rating label on the old unit
- If you smell gas, leave the house, then call 911 and SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200 from outside
Water Heater Replacement questions in Fontana
How do I find out which water provider serves my address?
Does replacing a water heater here require a permit, and who issues it?
Who do I call if the water won't shut off for the swap?
How long will the house be without hot water?
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