Top-Rated Water Heater Repair & Installation in San Antonio

Traditional tank models typically range from 30 to 80 gallons—30–40 gal suits 1–2 people, 40–50 gal for 2–3, and 50–60 gal (or higher) for larger households.

For tankless units, sizing is based on gallons-per-minute (GPM); small households need ~2–5 GPM, while larger homes may require 5+ GPM to ensure consistent hot water flow.

Tank-style heaters typically last 8–12 years, while tankless units can reach up to 20 years with proper care. Begin planning a replacement around year 8 for tanks and year 12 for tankless systems.

Experts recommend annual flushing to remove sediment, improve efficiency, and prevent rust or rumbling sound. Hard-water regions, like parts of Texas, benefit even more from regular flushing to reduce scale buildup.

Sediment settling at the tank bottom traps moisture; when heated, it pops or rumbles—often near the unit’s end of life. Flushing typically resolves the issue.

If your unit is over 10 years old, leaking, or inefficient, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repeated repairs. Tankless units may cost more upfront but offer long-term savings with lower energy use and longevity.