Water Heater Replacement in Corona, CA

Warning signs worth acting on

• Moisture or a slow leak at the base of the tank
• Hot water that looks brown or smells metallic
• Knocking or crackling while the heater runs
• Showers that turn cold sooner than they used to
• Rust on the outer jacket or at the pipe connections
• A relief valve that drips or has already discharged

Corona water and pressure

The City of Corona runs its own water utility, blending city well water (much of it treated by reverse osmosis at the Temescal Desalter) with Colorado River water from Lake Mathews and some State Water Project supply. The City's latest water quality report classes the water as hard, averaging 146 mg/L, about 8.5 grains per gallon, with readings from 7.2 to 290 mg/L depending on source. Corona disinfects with chloramines. Both facts matter for a new heater: scale settles in the tank, and chloramine can be harder on rubber parts.

Pressure is the other piece. The City notes that pressure regulators are the customer's responsibility to replace. A failing regulator lets pressure climb, which can make a new heater's relief valve drip and put extra strain on the tank, so ask the plumber to check house pressure during the install and recommend an expansion tank if the system calls for one.

SoCalGas serves Corona. If you smell gas near the heater, step outside before calling 911 and SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200.

What adds to the cost

• The heater's fuel type, gallons and efficiency
• Replacing a worn pressure regulator or adding an expansion tank
• Vent, flue and gas connector corrections
• Earthquake strapping and a drain pan where needed
• Building Division permit, inspection and haul-away

When you're connected

An independent Corona plumber will ask about the current heater and what's going wrong. Have the label details ready, along with where the heater sits and whether it is leaking now. The Building Division handles plan review, permits and inspections, and its office can be reached at (951) 736-2250 if you want to confirm anything yourself. Ask the plumber how the city inspection will be scheduled so you know whether someone needs to be home for it.