Tips on Choosing the Right Water Heater Size

John J.

Bigger isn’t always better, particularly when it comes to your water heater. If it’s too large, it could result in higher-than-necessary energy costs. However, if it’s too small, it could lead to premature failure and a lack of hot water supply, prompting an untimely water heater repair in Burbank, CA.

At All City Plumbers, we can help you find the perfect size for your water heater. Here are useful tips you may follow:

Know the Number of People Living in your House

When sizing your water heater, you must consider the number of occupants in your home. If your household has recently grown, our team can help you with water heater replacement. Below is a loose estimate of the size you will need:

30-40 gallons – for 1 to 2 people
40-50 gallons – for 2 to 3 people
50-60 gallons – for 3 to 4 people
60-80 gallons – For 5 or more people

First-Hour Rating (FHR)

Before purchasing a water heater, our experienced technicians advise you to consider the first-hour rating. FHR refers to the number of gallons of hot water a unit can supply in an hour, and it is influenced by the tank’s volume, the heat source, and the size of the burner. You can determine the FHR by calculating your hot water usage during your household’s busiest hour. For example, if people in your home shower and do household chores in the morning, you can use that as a basis. If this task seems complicated for you, turn to us for water heater services , and we’ll do the job for you.

Consider the Space You Have at Home

Water heaters need a specific clearance to operate efficiently. Therefore, to avoid installation problems, ensure there’s adequate space and—if you have a gas heater—ventilation. If your space is limited, you may consider a tankless water heater since it doesn’t take up much space compared to traditional models.

All City Plumbers works on all makes and models for water heater installation, repair, and maintenance. If you want to learn more about water heater sizing or need a service visit, contact us today.

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Unpack bathroom water hammer—causes like sudden valve closures and high pressure—and learn proven fixes like arrestors and PRVs for silent pipes.

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by Hadi Masood • 30 January 2026

Nothing disrupts a morning routine like a shower turning icy midstream, leaving you shivering and frustrated. This common issue stems from imbalances in your home's plumbing and heating systems, often triggered by everyday usage patterns or overlooked maintenance. Understanding the root causes empowers homeowners to diagnose problems swiftly and implement lasting fixes. This guide delves into the mechanics behind sudden temperature drops, explores diagnostic techniques, and outlines prevention strategies to keep your showers consistently warm. Common Causes of Sudden Cold Showers Sudden cold water in showers typically arises from water heater malfunctions or plumbing disruptions. Sediment buildup in tank-style heaters insulates the burner or element, causing inconsistent heating—over time, minerals from hard water accumulate at the bottom, reducing efficiency and leading to temperature fluctuations during peak demand. 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Inspect for hidden corrosion in galvanized pipes, which narrows passages over time. All City Plumbers emphasize tracing lines with a pipe camera for blockages invisible to the eye, revealing scale or debris that starves the showerhead. The Impact of Water Pressure Fluctuations Pressure swings directly affect shower temperature consistency. Municipal supply variations, like nighttime boosts or peak-hour drops, strain home systems. Faulty pressure regulators fail to stabilize incoming force, overwhelming the heater. Clogged showerheads or aerators restrict hot flow while cold rushes in unchecked. In multi-story homes, gravity amplifies upper-floor issues, where thinner pipes can't maintain velocity. Install a whole-house pressure gauge to baseline readings—ideal is 50-80 PSI. Fluctuations beyond this trigger mixing valve failures, designed to blend water but prone to wear. Step-by-Step Fixes for Cold Showers Addressing the issue begins with simple resets. 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By pinpointing causes from heater sediment to pressure imbalances and embracing proactive maintenance, you safeguard reliable performance year-round. Implementing these strategies not only restores blissfully warm showers but also boosts energy efficiency and system longevity for peace of mind.