Orange has several tracts of Eichler homes from the 1960s, known for post-and-beam construction, walls of glass, open plans and flat or low-slope roofs. Fairhills is one of them. These homes sit on concrete slabs, and many were originally built with radiant heating, with hot water tubing in the floor slab.
For water heaters, that design creates a few specifics. Attic space is minimal or absent, so heaters usually live in a utility closet, the garage or an exterior enclosure. Vents pass through a low-slope roof, where flashing and roof condition matter. And plumbing runs within the slab or the walls, so changing locations is harder than in a conventional tract home.
Fairhills at a glance
- Housing age
- 1960s Eichler tract
- Foundation
- Slab-on-grade
- Roof
- Flat or low-slope, which affects vent routing
- Supply piping
- Often copper, with lines in or near the slab
- Sewer lateral
- Older clay or cast iron is possible; mature yard trees can root into it
- Gas
- SoCalGas
Eichler-specific questions
- Does the home still use radiant slab heating, and is it tied to a boiler or water heater?
- Where does the heater vent through the roof, and is the flashing sound?
- Is there room for required clearances in the utility closet?
- If converting to tankless, where could a new vent go?
- Is the heater strapped to solid framing in a post-and-beam wall?
Contacts
| Topic | Who |
|---|---|
| Water provider | Shown on your bill; most of Orange is served by the City of Orange's water utility |
| Gas or gas smell | SoCalGas, or 911 from outside |
| Permits and roof penetrations | City of Orange |
| Contractor license | cslb.ca.gov |
Ask before replacing
- Will the new heater use the existing roof vent?
- Does the estimate include roof flashing work if the vent changes?
- Is the heater connected to the radiant heating system?
Common questions
Are Eichler water heaters different?
The heaters are standard, but the homes' slabs, low-slope roofs and limited spaces affect location and venting.
Can I move the heater to a new spot?
Possibly, but slab plumbing and roof venting make relocation a bigger job. Ask for the scope in writing.
Do I need a permit for a roof vent change?
Check with the City of Orange about permits for venting and roof work.
General information for Orange, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.