Winters in Rochester are long, cold, and hard on home plumbing. If your water heater struggles to keep up or fails entirely, you’ll notice fast. From morning showers to winter laundry, hot water is a daily essential. At John Betlem Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners across Rochester and Monroe County replace failing systems with dependable, energy-efficient options. We install both tank and tankless models, properly sized and expertly installed for long-term performance. 

Types of Water Heaters We Install 

We install a range of modern systems to meet the needs of local homeowners. The right setup depends on your home’s plumbing, energy source, and water usage. 

• Tank water heaters store hot water and are a common, budget-friendly choice. 

• Tankless water heaters heat water on demand and offer endless hot water without the bulk of a storage tank. 

• Gas models heat water quickly and cost less to run if your home already uses natural gas. 

• Electric models are clean, safe, and work well in homes without gas service. 

 

Our licensed plumbers will help you compare these options and choose the right one for your home. 

Signs You Need a New Water Heater 

Most water heaters don’t stop working all at once. They give you signs that it’s time for a replacement. 

• Water takes longer to heat 

• Inconsistent hot water at faucets or in the shower 

• Water around the base of the tank 

• Rust in the water or strange tastes 

• Spikes in your utility bill without a clear cause 

 

Older heaters often break down during Rochester’s coldest months. Replacing them before winter gives you peace of mind when you need hot water the most. 

Choosing the Right Size and Efficiency 

Water heater performance depends on proper sizing and efficiency, not just brand or features. 

• Household size matters. A small home may only need a 40-gallon tank, while larger families may require 50 gallons or more. For tankless systems, gallons-per-minute flow rate is key. 

• Energy-efficient water heaters save money on utility bills and may qualify for local incentives. We’ll help you review your options and choose a system that delivers both comfort and savings. 

• Cold-weather readiness is especially important in Monroe County. We’ll make sure your water heater is sized and rated for the colder groundwater that comes with winter. 

 

Trust John Betlem for Expert Installation 

Replacing a water heater is more than a quick swap. It needs careful installation and attention to local plumbing codes. At John Betlem, we do the job right the first time, backed by years of experience and a strong reputation in Rochester. 

• Experienced, licensed technicians 

• Local knowledge of plumbing systems and winter demands 

• Clean, code-compliant installation 

• Honest recommendations with no pushy sales 

• Maintenance plans to protect your investment 

 

We also offer complete plumbing services if your installation requires additional repairs or upgrades. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What size water heater do I need? 

It depends on your home and daily water use. Smaller homes may do well with a 40-gallon tank, while larger families may need 50 gallons or a properly rated tankless unit. We’ll help size the system correctly during your consultation. 

How long does installation take? 

Most standard replacements take just a few hours. If we’re switching types, like from tank to tankless, it may take longer due to plumbing or venting adjustments. We’ll explain the timeline upfront. 

Are tankless water heaters better for Rochester homes? 

Tankless systems work well in many local homes, especially those with consistent hot water needs. They’re more energy-efficient and space-saving but require proper sizing and installation. We’ll help you decide if it’s the right fit. 

How do I know if my current water heater is energy efficient? 

Units older than 10 years often lack modern insulation and controls. New models are rated for higher efficiency and can help reduce operating costs. We can assess your current system and offer recommendations. 

Can I get an estimate before committing? 

Yes. We provide clear, upfront pricing and explain your options during a consultation. There’s no pressure, and you’ll have all the information needed to make the right choice. 

Schedule a Water Heater Consultation Today 

If your water heater isn’t keeping up or if you’re ready to replace it with something more efficient, John Betlem is here to help. We offer professional water heater installation in Rochester and across Monroe County. Our team will walk you through your options, handle the full install, and make sure your home has the hot water it needs. 

To get started, contact our team to schedule your consultation. We also provide full plumbing services to support your installation or other home needs.