Note to readers: This post was updated on July 09, 2026 to reflect current tankless water heater guidance and link to our updated cost and comparison guides. We refreshed the details below so the advice reflects how we approach this work today.
Western Rooter & Plumbing has installed Rinnai tankless water heaters throughout the San Gabriel Valley for years, and it remains one of the brands we recommend most often. Here’s what makes tankless worth considering if you’re replacing an aging tank-style heater.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
Instead of storing and constantly reheating 40-50 gallons of water in a tank, a tankless unit heats water on demand as it passes through the unit. That means no standby heat loss, no waiting for a tank to refill after a big shower, and continuous hot water as long as the unit is sized correctly for your household.
Why We Recommend Rinnai Specifically
We’ve installed a range of tankless brands over the years, and Rinnai consistently holds up well in this climate, offers strong manufacturer warranties, and has reliable parts availability when service is needed down the road. That last part matters more than people expect — a tankless unit is only as good as the support behind it when something eventually needs a repair.
Tankless vs. Tank: Is It Right for Your Home?
Tankless isn’t automatically the better choice for every household. It depends on your hot water usage, home size, and existing gas/electrical setup. We break this down in detail in tank vs. tankless: which is better for Pasadena homes and our real cost comparison for SGV homes.
Signs Your Current Water Heater Needs Replacing
- Running out of hot water partway through a shower
- Rusty or discolored hot water
- Unusual noises from the tank — see why is my water heater making these noises
- A unit older than 10-12 years, especially with hard water buildup accelerating wear
If any of that sounds familiar, it’s worth getting a professional opinion before the unit fails outright, usually at the least convenient time. We provide free estimates on tankless installation and can walk you through sizing, venting, and cost for your specific home.
