The unit is only one line
A tankless conversion in a Fullerton house built around a garage tank can include new gas piping, a new vent, an outlet, a condensate drain, service valves, a permit and haul-away of the old tank. A straight tankless-for-tankless swap with a sound existing setup may need far less.
That is why a quote with only a unit price and a single labor figure is hard to compare. Ask each plumber to break out the work so you can see what is included and what is assumed.
Cost drivers
| Item | What makes it larger | What makes it smaller |
|---|---|---|
| Unit | Higher flow rating, condensing design, built-in recirculation | Smaller rating that still fits demand |
| Gas piping | Long new run from the meter, difficult routing | Existing line already adequate |
| Venting | Long runs, roof penetrations, special materials | Short side-wall vent, or an outdoor model |
| Electrical | New circuit or panel work | Existing outlet nearby |
| Condensate | No nearby drain, neutralizer needed | Non-condensing unit or an easy drain point |
| Water connections | Repiping galvanized lines, adding valves | Clean copper connections already in place |
| Permit and inspection | Corrections required | Straightforward approval |
| Removal | Old tank in a tight closet | Easy garage access |
What a comparable quote should list
- Unit make, model and flow rating
- Gas piping work, including route and pipe size
- Vent material, route and termination
- Service valves, relief valve and condensate drain
- Electrical work, if any
- Permit, inspection and who handles corrections
- Removal and disposal of the old water heater
- What is excluded or treated as extra
Two quotes, two approaches
Itemized quote
- Each part of the job listed
- Assumptions about gas and venting stated
- Exclusions spelled out
- Easier to compare and to hold to
Lump-sum quote
- One number, little detail
- Gas and vent work may be assumed or left out
- Extras can appear later
- Ask for a breakdown before signing
Questions that clarify a quote
- Does this include gas line upsizing if it turns out to be needed?
- What vent route did you price?
- Is the permit included?
- What would cause the price to change after work starts?
Common questions
Why did two plumbers quote such different totals?
They may have assumed different gas, venting or electrical work. Compare the itemized scopes, not only the totals.
Should a plumber see the house before quoting?
For a conversion, yes. Gas line size and vent routing are hard to judge without looking.
Are rebates available?
Programs change. Check with SoCalGas and your city for any current offers rather than relying on older information.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.