New Water Heater Installation in Butte County
At Earl’s Performance Plumbing, we take pride in installations that are as clean as they are reliable. In this quick video, our crew installs a new water heater for a local homeowner — showcasing our professional process from setup to final testing.
What You’ll See in the Video
From draining and removing the old tank to connecting the new, high-efficiency unit, you’ll see how our team handles every detail with precision. We use manufacturer-approved fittings, pressure relief valves, and secure venting to ensure safety and long-term performance.
Transcript: Chico Water Heater Replacement — On The Job With Matt
Matt: Hi, my name is Matt. I've been working for Earl’s for eight years. Today we're here to install a new water heater. Customer called us out — it had a lot of rocks or sediment.
Tinging and banging around inside the water heater when it was turned on — that's caused from very hard water and calcium buildup within the unit. When the burner was running, you could hear it inside the house, making the water extremely inefficient.
So he had us out to just do a preventative maintenance on the water heater and get a new one that’s not going to be full of sediment. We're doing a full install — complete replacement of an original gate valve, installing a new emergency shut-off ball valve for the water supply, new shut-off for the gas supply, and adding a drip leg to bring the system up to code.
The customer will benefit greatly — he’ll have a true 40-gallon water heater that runs much more efficiently.
When it comes to water heater installation and replacement, homeowners across Butte County trust
Earl’s Performance Plumbing for reliable service, honest pricing, and unmatched workmanship.
From standard tank systems to high-efficiency mode
Why Choose Earl’s Performance Plumbing
Water Heater Installation FAQ
How fast can you replace my water heater in Chico or Paradise?
Often the same day. Call by mid-morning and we’ll do our best to get you hot water back that day.
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes. We send a technician to inspect your setup and provide a free, firm quote up front. If you don’t move forward, you owe nothing for the visit.
How long does a typical installation take?
Most standard tank replacements take about 2–4 hours once we’re on site. Complex venting or code upgrades can add time—we’ll tell you before we start.
Tank vs. tankless—what’s best for my home?
Tank units are budget-friendly with fast installs. Tankless offers endless hot water and efficiency. We’ll review usage, gas line size, venting, and budget to recommend the right fit.
Do you handle permits and code compliance?
Yes. We’re licensed and insured, and we handle permits, code upgrades, seismic strapping, venting, and safety valves so your installation is fully compliant.
What brands do you install?
We install trusted, readily serviced brands and match models to your home’s needs. If you have a preferred brand, tell us—we’re happy to accommodate when possible.
Do you haul away the old water heater?
Yes—removal and haul-away are included at no charge.
What about warranties and maintenance?
Manufacturer warranties vary by model; we register units when applicable and stand behind our workmanship. Annual flushes can extend life and efficiency.
How much does a water heater replacement cost?
Pricing depends on tank size, venting, gas/electric, and code upgrades. We use flat-rate pricing—no surprises—and provide your total before any work begins.
Do you serve areas beyond Chico?
Yes—Paradise, Durham, Orland, and surrounding Northern California communities. If you’re nearby, we’ve got you covered.
How We Replace Your Water Heater (Step-by-Step)
Here’s exactly what our licensed team does on a standard tank replacement. We handle permits, code upgrades, seismic strapping, venting, gas/electric, and safety checks — start to finish.
What’s Included
- Permit & code compliance (where required)
- Seismic strapping and drain pan (where applicable)
- T&P valve and discharge line
- Proper venting and gas/electrical connections
- Haul-away and recycling of the old heater
- Startup, temperature set (typically 120°F), and walkthrough
Our Process
- Arrival & Safety Check — Confirm model/location, verify shutoffs, protect floors, review scope with homeowner.
- Shut Off & Drain — Turn off water and gas/electric, attach hose, safely drain and de-pressurize the old tank.
- Disconnect & Remove — Cap utilities as needed, disconnect venting/water/gas/electric, remove the old unit.
- Prep the Space — Place drain pan (where required), confirm clearances, install seismic straps and blocks to code.
- Set the New Heater — Position and level; install dielectric unions and approved connectors for hot/cold lines.
- Venting & Fuel Connections — Size/secure venting to code; install gas connector with drip leg and test port, or wire electric per spec.
- Safety Devices — Install T&P relief valve and discharge line to a safe termination point per code.
- Fill & Test — Fill and purge air, restore utilities, perform soap-bubble or manometer leak tests, and verify vent draft (if applicable).
- Startup & Set Temp — Light or power on, confirm burner/elements, set to ~120°F, verify recovery and no leaks.
- Cleanup & Walkthrough — Remove debris, haul away old unit, explain maintenance and warranty, answer questions.
Service Area: Chico, Paradise, Durham, Orland, and nearby Northern California communities.
Ready to replace your water heater? Call (530) 343-0330 or visit earlsplumbing.net. Fixed Right, Right Now!
Earl’s Performance Plumbing
Service Areas
- Chico
- Paradise
- Durham
- Orland
- Surrounding Northern California communities