Tankless water heaters offer outstanding convenience and energy efficiency, making them an attractive option for homeowners replacing or upgrading their equipment. Unlike traditional water heaters, which hold and heat large volumes of water, tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand.
In this article, we explore the features and benefits of tankless water heaters, including:
Continue reading to learn more about the advantages of tankless water heaters.
Save Space and Energy – Choose Peter Levi for Your Tankless Water Heater!
With over 35 years of experience, Peter Levi offers a high level of expertise and craftsmanship in your water heater installation. Whether you need to repair your existing unit or you’re looking for an energy-efficient upgrade, we’re here to help. Contact us today at (415) 529-4633 to learn more.
One of the primary benefits of tankless water heaters is that, because the unit doesn’t store water, you’re not relying on a limited supply from a tank. Instead, you get an endless hot water supply on demand, eliminating the risk of cold showers and ensuring uninterrupted comfort and convenience when needed.
Tankless water heaters work by heating water as it’s needed. When you open a hot water tap in your home, the cold water enters the water heater through a pipe, and a gas burner or electrical element then heats the water. This gives you a constant supply of hot water.
Because tankless water heaters only operate when there’s a demand, they only run when you're actively using hot water. In contrast, traditional water heaters store from 30 gallons to over 100 gallons, depending on the size of the unit, and they run constantly to keep that water heated to a specific temperature. This means you’re paying to heat water 24/7, even when you’re on vacation.
Because water heating is generally the second largest energy expense in any home, the improved energy efficiency of tankless models can provide significant annual savings. If you notice signs that your existing water heater is failing, such as leaks and limited hot water supply, a tankless water heater may be a sensible investment.
Traditional water heaters have a sizable footprint, reducing usable storage space in a utility closet, basement, or garage. Not only are they an eyesore, but they’re difficult to accommodate with storage solutions, often requiring creative planning to fully utilize the remaining space.
On the other hand, tankless water heaters are considerably more compact, with units typically coming about 17.5 inches wide, 16 inches deep, and 27.5 inches tall. They can be installed in any ventilated, accessible location, including out-of-the-way areas of the home such as crawl spaces. They’re also relatively easy to conceal and design around, giving you more flexibility and letting you maximize your living space.
A unit’s life expectancy is one of the top things to consider before purchasing a new water heater. On average, a tankless system can last up to 30 years, while a traditional unit lasts around 10 years. This means that although traditional water heaters cost less upfront, you may have to replace them two to three times over the lifespan of a tankless option, potentially leading to higher long-term costs.
Tankless water heaters are a practical option that offers an energy-efficient way to maximize your home’s comfort and efficiency. In contrast to traditional water heaters, these units provide an endless supply of hot water, take up a limited amount of space, and only function when necessary. Along with this, they have a lifespan of two to three times that of a traditional tank unit.
If you’re replacing your water heater, opting for a tankless option is a smart, forward-thinking investment that pays off in comfort, efficiency, and reliability.
Upgrade to Endless Hot Water – Peter Levi Has Your Tankless Solution!
As Northern California’s premier plumbing, heating, and cooling experts, Peter Levi is the name you can always trust for your water heater repair and installation. We provide honest, up-front pricing with no hidden charges or fees, so you always know what to expect. Call us today at (415) 529-4633 to learn more about our services.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
A furnace tune-up is an important maintenance process that helps ensure your unit is working correctly. Scheduling regular tune-ups can help prevent breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life expectancy of your furnace. In this article, you’ll learn more about tune-ups, discover signs your furnace needs attention, and see what all this maintenance costs. Topics include:
Read on to see what a tune-up involves and when you should book your maintenance appointment.
Need a Furnace Tune-Up? Call Peter Levi Today!
Peter Levi’s heating maintenance services deliver real fixes backed by a high level of expertise and craftsmanship. We take pride in developing real relationships with our clients, and it’s that care and trust that keeps homeowners coming back time and again. Enjoy honest, upfront pricing and furnace tune-ups you can trust.
Furnace tune-ups include a comprehensive inspection and cleaning of your system to ensure efficiency and safety. During a tune-up, your HVAC professional may perform a number of tests and tasks, including:
On average, a furnace tune-up costs between $80 and $200. How much you pay for a furnace tune-up depends on various factors, including the type of furnace and the complexity of your system.
Ask your favorite HVAC company about seasonal discounts or maintenance plans that can help reduce your overall cost. And remember, paying for a tune-up now could help you avoid pricey repairs or unit replacements down the road.
If you’re behind on maintenance and spot any of these warning signs, you may need to schedule a furnace tune-up or general unit assessment as soon as possible:
While it may be tempting to wait until a true problem arises to call for heating repair, that would be a mistake. Regular furnace tune-ups are an important part of extending the life of your furnace and avoiding costly repairs.
Even small adjustments could increase efficiency and reduce energy costs. Adjusting a misaligned fan is far easier (and more affordable) than replacing one that’s worn down and beyond repair.
You can help prep for a frosty winter by scheduling a pre-season furnace tune-up. Being proactive comes with several perks:
Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly—Book a Tune-Up with Peter Levi!
At Peter Levi, we take care of HVAC problems because we want to take care of you. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve established ourselves as the premier source of heating maintenance services in Northern California. Call to book a furnace tune-up today, and our heating and cooling experts will be at your side before you know it.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
At Peter Levi, we’ve seen it all when it comes to water heaters. While water heaters are built to work hard, there are a few common myths about efficiency that can cost you in the long run. Let’s set the record straight so you can keep your water heater running smoothly—without breaking the bank.
Lowering the temperature might cut costs, but it can also lead to lukewarm showers and even bacteria buildup. Instead, stick to the recommended setting of 120°F for efficiency and safety.
Waiting until something goes wrong can lead to costly repairs or a full replacement. With regular tune-ups, Peter Levi can TAKE CARE OF IT by flushing out sediment and inspecting key components, ensuring your system runs like new.
Sediment buildup forces your water heater to work harder, meaning higher energy bills for you. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your system efficient and extending its lifespan.
At Peter Levi, we make water heater care simple and stress-free because we know your time is valuable. Whether it’s a tune-up to keep things running smoothly or tackling an issue before it turns into a bigger problem, our expert team is here to handle it all. Ready to boost your water heater’s efficiency? Give us a call today, and CONSIDER IT DONE!
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
At Peter Levi, we know your water heater works hard year-round to keep your family comfortable. But did you know there’s a silent enemy lurking in your system? It’s called sediment buildup, and it can wreak havoc on your water heater’s performance and lifespan. Below, we will discuss why sediment buildup matters and how regular tune-ups can make all the difference.
Sediment buildup occurs when minerals like calcium and magnesium, commonly found in hard water, settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. Over time, this layer grows thicker, creating a barrier between the heating element and the water itself. The result? A water heater that works harder than it should, leading to higher energy bills and potential damage.
Reduced Efficiency: Sediment acts like insulation, forcing your water heater to use more energy to heat your water. This leads to higher utility bills.
Inconsistent Water Temperatures: If you’ve noticed your showers switching between hot and lukewarm, sediment could be to blame.
Noisy Operation: As sediment hardens, it can cause popping or rumbling sounds as water heats up around the buildup.
Shortened Lifespan: Excess strain on your water heater means more wear and tear, ultimately reducing its lifespan.
Potential for Leaks: Over time, sediment can corrode the tank, increasing the risk of leaks and costly repairs.
As a California homeowner, hard water is a common challenge—but it doesn’t have to defeat your water heater. Schedule a water heater tune-up with Peter Levi today and let us TAKE CARE OF IT so you can enjoy worry-free comfort. Don’t wait for cold showers or costly repairs. We’re here to help you stay comfortable and stress-free all year long!
At Peter Levi, we’ll ensure your water heater operates at peak performance. A professional tune-up removes sediment, inspects all components, and addresses potential issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance not only saves you money but also ensures your family enjoys reliable hot water year-round.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
Drain problems can sneak up on any homeowner, but knowing when to tackle them yourself and when to call a professional can save time, money, and stress. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide how to handle common drain issues.
Clogs in the Sink
Try using a drain snake or zip tool to fish out hair, food particles, or debris causing the clog. These tools are easy to use and effective for clearing blockages close to the surface.
Slow Drains
Try using a drain snake to remove debris that might be causing slow drainage. These tools are inexpensive and easy to use for minor issues.
Odors
Pouring boiling water down the drain or using a baking soda and vinegar solution can neutralize bad smells caused by buildup.
Recurring Clogs
If you find yourself fixing the same clog repeatedly, the issue might be deeper in the system, requiring professional tools and expertise.
Sewage Smells
Persistent foul odors could indicate a serious problem with your sewer line. This isn’t a DIY situation.
Leaking or Damaged Pipes
Visible leaks or signs of water damage near your drains need immediate attention from a licensed plumber.
At Peter Levi, we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs—big or small. Whether it’s a quick fix or a major repair, you can CONSIDER IT DONE. Contact us today to keep your drains running smoothly and your home worry-free.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
Your drains might seem like a harmless part of your home, but to pests like drain flies, cockroaches, and ants, they’re a cozy place to call home. Food debris, moisture, and warm, dark environments create the perfect conditions for these unwelcome guests to settle in. At Peter Levi, we’re here to help you keep your drains clean, your home bug-free, and your mind at ease.
Moisture
Drains provide a consistent water source, which pests need to survive.
Food Residue
Leftover scraps or grease in your drains can be a feast for bugs.
Shelter
Dark, narrow pipes give pests a place to hide and breed undisturbed.
If left untreated, these conditions can lead to infestations that quickly spread beyond the drain, turning a minor annoyance into a major problem.
Clean Regularly
Flush your drains with hot water and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clear residue.
Avoid Grease
Never pour grease or oil down the drain—they harden and trap food particles, creating a bug buffet.
Install Drain Covers
A simple cover can prevent bugs from crawling into your drains.
Fix Leaks
Moisture from leaking pipes can attract bugs. Repair any leaks promptly.
Schedule Professional Cleanings: Regular maintenance ensures your pipes stay clear and uninviting to pests.
If you notice signs of pests in your drains, such as foul odors, small black flies, or crawling insects, it’s time to bring in the professionals. At Peter Levi, we’ll inspect your drains, identify the issue, and provide thorough cleaning to eliminate the problem. You can trust us to TAKE CARE OF IT so you can enjoy a pest-free home.
Your drains don’t have to become a bug hotel. With regular maintenance and professional care, you can stop pests before they invade your space. Contact Peter Levi today to schedule a drain cleaning and ensure your home stays clean, safe, and bug-free.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
Your toilet draws freely from your water supply to operate. Unfortunately, this also means that if it springs a leak, it can cause extensive water damage in your bathroom. Knowing how to shut off the water supply to your toilet helps prevent this.
The toilet shut-off valve is usually located behind the toilet and can be operated by turning it. Need more information? Keep reading to learn:
Schedule Your Plumbing Repair With Peter Levi Today!
It takes a high level of expertise and craftsmanship to work in plumbing, whether detecting leaks, fixing toilet parts, or helping you remodel. Peter Levi delivers every time with the benefit of honest, upfront pricing. There are no hidden charges or fees.
Your toilet's shut-off valve is critical to stopping water from flowing. You may need to turn it off on several occasions, including if:
Most toilets produced in the U.S. have a shut-off valve on the back left side. You can identify it by the gray, braided cable that connects the toilet tank to the wall. The valve typically has an oval-shaped knob or handle.
If you can't find the toilet's water valve and are dealing with a serious leak or flood, it's best to shut off the water supply to your whole house. The main shut-off valve is typically located outside with a lid covering the meter, or in your basement.
If you're wondering how to turn off the water to your toilet, follow these steps:
To turn the water supply back on, twist the valve counterclockwise. Don't attempt this until all repairs have been completed and it’s ready to be tested.
If turning the valve doesn't do anything or if water continues to flow even though you've turned it as far as possible, a professional plumber should inspect it.
Once the water is off, you can do any repair work you're comfortable with. However, we recommend calling a trained professional. Plumbing can be delicate and if you don't know what you're doing, you risk worsening the problem.
Some signs you should probably call in reinforcements include:
If you can't figure out what's wrong with your toilet or you've diagnosed it, but aren't confident performing the repair yourself, give us a call at Peter Levi. We'll get it in good working order in no time.
Book Your Emergency Plumbing Repair With Peter Levi
As Northern California's premier plumbing, heating, and cooling experts, we have a big reputation to uphold. When you call us for a leak detection or any plumbing issue, you can trust we'll get the job done right the first time.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
Experiencing a sudden burst of cold water during a soothing hot shower can be a jarring ordeal. While occasional hot water shortages are common, especially without a tankless water heater, frequent interruptions shouldn't be a regular occurrence. Thankfully, most issues with your hot water supply have identifiable causes and solutions.
Common reasons your shower might run out of hot water include:
Identifying the root cause is the first step, and although some fixes are straightforward, others might require professional plumbing assistance.
Tired of No Hot Water in Northern California? Call Peter Levi Today
With over 35 years of experience in the plumbing, heating, and cooling business, we're the experts Northern California trusts with their water heater services. We'll give you honest, upfront pricing without hidden charges or fees.
The tank may be too small if you frequently run out of hot water. While this is often the simplest explanation, it can also be one of the more costly to fix, as the only real solution is an upgrade.
If your home has several people who take back-to-back showers, or if you often run the dishwasher or laundry, you need a water heater to keep up with the demand. A larger tank may be the solution. However, a tankless water heater may be the better choice for particularly large families or those who wish for virtually unlimited hot water access. These systems heat water as it's being used, reducing the wait time for hot water.
The inside of your water heater needs to be cleaned occasionally. Water typically contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can build up in your water heater's tank and pipes. Eventually, this buildup can block the heating mechanism, causing the water to heat more slowly, resulting in less readily available hot water.
The simple solution is to seek help from a plumber. They can perform a full tank flush and eliminate the buildup. You can also help prevent this by scheduling regular water heater flushes.
Sometimes, water heaters simply aren't set to the right temperature. For optimal performance, it should be set between 120 and 140 degrees. Adjust your water heater's temperature settings to see if that resolves the issue. If that doesn't work, it may be time to evaluate your thermostat to ensure it's working correctly.
The dip tube might be the reason your water isn't getting hot enough. Its job is to send cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it's heated. When the dip tube isn't working properly, cold water may go up to the top of the tank and mix with the hot water, lowering the temperature of the entire tank.
A plumber can identify and solve both of these issues. They can also replace the thermostat or dip tube and make any necessary repairs to get your current ones working again.
How long it takes for a water heater to heat up depends on how many gallons of water are in the tank. If hot water is being used in several places simultaneously, the supply can deplete faster than the heater replenishes it, resulting in a shortage of hot water. In this case, you might need to consider installing a larger tank or a tankless water heater.
The time it takes to get hot water depends on the distance between the water heater tank and the point of use. Water has to travel from the heater through the pipes to reach your shower head or faucet. The size of the pipes also affects how quickly you get hot water. A plumber can evaluate your situation and discuss potential solutions to ensure you have access to hot water when and where you need it.
Need Water Heater Services in Northern California? Peter Levi Is Here to Help
Peter Levi is the name you can always trust when you need premier water heater services in Northern California. Let us handle your water heater needs and ensure the comfort and safety of your family. We're not just in the plumbing business; we're in the business of cultivating real relationships that always set us apart.
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
Living in California means enjoying mild winters compared to other parts of the country, but that doesn’t mean you can skip regular maintenance for your furnace. Even if you only use your furnace a few months out of the year, it’s still essential to keep it in top shape. At Peter Levi, we’re here to help you TAKE CARE OF IT and make sure your furnace is ready to perform when you need it most. Here’s why a furnace tune-up is still a smart move, even in California’s mild climate.
California’s winters might not be harsh, but when those chilly nights roll in, you want your furnace to be ready to go. A furnace that sits idle most of the year can develop problems like dirt buildup, worn parts, or airflow issues. A tune-up ensures your furnace will kick on without a hitch, delivering warmth when you need it most. Let Peter Levi TAKE CARE OF IT now, so you’re not left in the cold later.
Even in a mild winter, an inefficient furnace can lead to higher energy bills. A well-maintained furnace uses less energy to heat your home, lowering your monthly bills. Our Peter Levi technicians clean, inspect, and optimize your system so it runs smoothly and efficiently all winter long. When it comes to saving energy, you can CONSIDER IT DONE with our expert tune-up services.
A minor issue can turn into a major, expensive problem if left unchecked. During a tune-up, we’ll catch any potential problems early—before they require costly repairs or even a full system replacement. Regular maintenance not only keeps your furnace running efficiently but also extends its lifespan, saving you money in the long term.
In California, dust and allergens can build up in your furnace when it’s not in use. A tune-up ensures your furnace is clean and free from debris, improving your home’s air quality. This is especially important for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. We’ll clean out your system so you can breathe easy all winter long.
Did you know that many furnace warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid? Skipping your annual tune-up could void your warranty, leaving you unprotected if something goes wrong. At Peter Levi, we help you stay compliant with your warranty and protect your investment. If it’s time for a tune-up, you can trust us to TAKE CARE OF IT.
Don’t Wait—Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up Today! Even with California’s mild winters, a furnace tune-up is a wise investment. It ensures your system is ready when you need it, helps you save on energy bills, and extends the life of your furnace. At Peter Levi, we’re committed to keeping your home comfortable and efficient. Schedule your furnace tune-up today, and CONSIDER IT DONE!
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
As a California homeowner, you might not always think about your furnace, especially with our milder winters. However, keeping up with regular maintenance is key to avoiding higher utility bills, even when you’re not running your furnace as often. That’s where Peter Levi comes in—we’re here to help you TAKE CARE OF IT. A professional furnace tune-up with our team ensures your system is running efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Here’s how a tune-up from Peter Levi can lower your utility bills and keep your home cozy.
Over time, dirt and debris can make your furnace work harder than necessary. During a tune-up, our Peter Levi technicians clean and lubricate key components, so your system runs smoothly and uses less energy. The result? Lower monthly utility bills for you. We’re dedicated to helping you save, so you can CONSIDER IT DONE.
When you schedule a tune-up with Peter Levi, we thoroughly inspect your furnace for any small issues before they become big, costly repairs. By keeping everything running in top shape, we make sure your furnace is working efficiently, which means lower energy consumption and less stress on your wallet. If there’s a problem, we TAKE CARE OF IT on the spot.
Clogged filters and ducts can restrict airflow, making your furnace work harder to heat your home. Our tune-up service ensures optimal airflow so your furnace doesn’t have to overwork itself. With better airflow, your system can heat your home faster and use less energy, giving you more savings month after month.
During a Peter Levi tune-up, we also check and calibrate your thermostat to make sure it’s working perfectly. A well-calibrated thermostat means your furnace won’t waste energy trying to heat your home to the wrong temperature. With our help, your system stays efficient, and you stay comfortable.
When you trust Peter Levi for a furnace tune-up, you’re also extending the life of your system. Regular maintenance helps your furnace run smoothly for years to come, keeping you from the expense of an early replacement. We’ll make sure your furnace is built to last, so you can CONSIDER IT DONE.
At Peter Levi, we’re committed to providing top-notch service and keeping your furnace in peak condition. A furnace tune-up doesn’t just keep you warm—it helps you save money. Schedule your tune-up today, and let our team TAKE CARE OF IT, so you can start seeing the savings on your next utility bill!
GM, Peter Levi Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Drains
With over twenty years of expertise in HVAC, plumbing, and drain services, I specialize in delivering high-quality solutions for residential needs. From high-end heating and air conditioning systems to comprehensive plumbing and underground construction projects, I am committed to providing exceptional service and reliability for every household. Whether it's an emergency repair or a planned home upgrade, my focus is always on delivering the best customer experience.
NOVATO
24 Digital Dr STE 1
Novato, CA 94949
VACAVILLE
1021 Mason St, STE 11
Vacaville, CA 95688
Mon - Fri. 7am - 7:30pm
Sat. 7:30am - 4pm
Sun. Closed