For expert water heater installation in Oak Brook, IL, Amazing Air Inc. guides homeowners through choosing between tank and tankless systems, precise sizing, various fuel options, important energy-saving considerations, and the entire professional installation process. We cover all permits and ensure code compliance, handle the removal of old units, explain install-day expectations and timelines, help with brand and warranty choices, and provide post-install testing and maintenance advice tailored to Oak Brook homes. Our guide emphasizes reliability, safety, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings, helping you make informed decisions for durable hot water performance.
Water Heater Installation in Oak Brook, IL
Choosing and installing a new water heater is a major home investment. In Oak Brook, IL, where cold winters and seasonal temperature swings increase hot water demand, upgrading to the right unit improves comfort, reduces energy bills, and prevents emergency breakdowns. This page walks you through selecting the right system (tank vs tankless), sizing and fuel options, energy and savings considerations, the professional installation process, permit and code compliance, old-unit removal, install-day expectations and timeline, brand and warranty options, plus post-install testing and maintenance recommendations tailored to Oak Brook homes.
Why the right water heater matters in Oak Brook, IL
Oak Brook experiences long, cold winters and variable spring and fall temperatures. Those conditions:
- Increase hot water use for showers and heating-related needs
- Raise the importance of reliable freeze protection and proper venting
- Make energy efficiency more valuable because heating costs rise during colder monthsLocal plumbing infrastructure and water mineral content can influence tank longevity, so choosing the correct materials and maintenance plan matters for durability.
Tank vs Tankless — which is best for your Oak Brook home
- Tank water heaters
- Store 20 to 80 gallons of hot water ready for use
- Simpler to install when replacing an existing tank with a like-for-like model
- Lower upfront cost but higher standby heat loss and potentially higher long-term energy costs
- Good choice for households with simultaneous heavy use and limited hot water demands spaced in time
- Tankless (on-demand) units
- Heat water only when needed, reducing standby losses
- Compact and space-saving; useful for tight mechanical closets in Oak Brook homes
- Typically longer service life and lower operating costs with high-demand profiles
- May require upgrades to gas supply, electrical service, or venting, increasing installation complexity in older homes
- Heat pump and hybrid water heaters
- Highly energy-efficient where space and ambient conditions allow
- Best in homes with basement or mechanical rooms that stay above freezing year-round
- May deliver the largest energy savings versus conventional electric tanks
Selecting between these depends on household hot water patterns, available space, fuel access, and budget.
Sizing and fuel type considerations
- Sizing
- For tanks: choose a capacity based on household size and peak hour demand. Undersized tanks lead to cold showers; oversized units waste energy.
- For tankless: size by flow rate (gallons per minute) and required temperature rise during Oak Brook winters, when incoming groundwater is colder.
- Fuel type
- Natural gas: common in many Oak Brook homes; provides strong recovery rates and cost-effective operation
- Electric: straightforward installation but can be more expensive to operate unless paired with heat pump technology
- Propane: used where natural gas is unavailable
- Hybrid/heat pump: highly efficient electric option if space and ambient conditions permitEvaluate local fuel availability, energy prices, and whether your home needs gas line or electrical upgrades.
Energy efficiency and expected savings
- Modern high-efficiency tanks, condensing tankless units, and heat pump heaters can lower annual water heating costs substantially compared with older models.
- Expected savings vary with current equipment, household usage, and fuel costs. Replacing a 10 to 15 year old low-efficiency tank often yields noticeable savings; switching to a high-efficiency tankless or heat pump system can produce even greater long-term reductions.
- Look at Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), Energy Factor (EF), and Energy Star qualifications when comparing units.
- Local utility rebates and incentives may be available in Oak Brook and DuPage County that improve payback on high-efficiency models.
Professional installation process — step by step
- Assessment and recommendation
- Confirm fuel type, venting options, electrical capacity, and space conditions
- Recommend model, size, and efficiency based on your household profile and Oak Brook climate
- Permitting
- Obtain required permits from the Village of Oak Brook Building Department and schedule inspections as required by Illinois plumbing and building codes
- Site preparation
- Clear the installation area; verify clearances and vent paths; prepare floor or mounting surfaces
- Removal and disposal of old unit
- Safely disconnect utilities, drain and remove old equipment, and transport for recycling or disposal per local regulations
- Rough-in modifications
- Install new gas lines, vents, electrical circuits, or condensate drains if needed to meet code and manufacturer specifications
- Installation and connections
- Securely mount or set the new unit, connect water lines, install temperature pressure relief valve and expansion tank if required, and complete venting and combustion air work for gas units
- Filling, purging, and testing
- Fill the system, purge air from lines, perform pressure and leak tests, verify electrical and gas connections, and conduct combustion analysis for gas-fired equipment to ensure safe operation
- Inspection and sign-off
- Coordinate final inspection with local authorities and document compliance with codes and manufacturer requirements
- Owner orientation
- Demonstrate controls, explain maintenance schedule, and provide warranty paperwork and documentation
Permits, code compliance, and safety
- Water heater replacements and conversions in Oak Brook typically require permits. Codes address venting, combustion air, temperature and pressure relief devices, seismic strapping if applicable, and high-temperature locations.
- Gas connections and electrical upgrades must meet Illinois and local codes and are inspected for safety.
- Proper venting and combustion testing are essential to prevent carbon monoxide hazards. Installations must follow manufacturer instructions and local building department rules.
Old unit removal and disposal
- Old tanks are drained, cut or crushed as needed, and recycled when possible. Sediment and residual materials are handled per local disposal rules.
- Tankless units are decommissioned and materials recycled or disposed of in compliance with regulations.
- If a unit contains hazardous components, disposal follows federal and state guidelines.
Timeline and what to expect on install day
- Typical like-for-like tank replacement: 3 to 6 hours
- Tankless replacement or conversions requiring venting or gas/electrical upgrades: 6 to 10 hours or possibly up to 2 days for complex work
- Expect technicians to shut off utilities briefly, remove the old unit, make necessary modifications, install and test the new unit, and leave the area clean. You will receive operating instructions and warranty information at completion.
Brands, warranties, and financing options
- Common reputable brands available for Oak Brook homes include Rheem, A O Smith, Bradford White, Rinnai, Navien, Bosch, Noritz, and Stiebel Eltron.
- Manufacturer warranties typically cover tank or heat exchanger and vary by model. Labor warranties from installers may cover workmanship for a limited period.
- Many financing programs and manufacturer promotions exist for energy-efficient models to spread upfront costs; documentation and terms vary by provider.
Post-installation testing and maintenance recommendations
- After installation, verify temperature settings (120 degrees F is commonly recommended for safety and efficiency) and confirm expansion tank and pressure relief valve function.
- Annual maintenance for tanks: flush to remove sediment, inspect anode rod, check TPR valve, and inspect venting and connections.
- Tankless maintenance: annual descaling and filter cleaning are important in areas with mineralized water to prevent reduced flow and burner damage.
- Keep a maintenance log and schedule inspections before winter to ensure freeze protection and reliable performance during Oak Brook winters.
Replacing your water heater is the right time to evaluate efficiency, capacity, and long-term costs. With local climate and code factors in Oak Brook, a properly selected and professionally installed system improves comfort, reduces energy use, and provides peace of mind for years to come.
Customer Testimonials
Exceptional service and professionalism, exceeding expectations every time.
The service is in the name: AMAZING. My experience from the quote with Doug to the installation by Dave and Jose was absolutely wonderful, transparent, informative, efficient, friendly, and professional. They REALLY know what they're doing. I can't thank them enough for installing my new furnace and AC in my condo. Definitely recommend this amazing company.
My central A/C went out and they came and fixed it the same day I called them. From the first point of contact to the service provided, I experienced outstanding customer service. The technician Donnie was great! He was very thorough, knowledgeable, and patient with my questions. They have a reasonable comprehensive membership program that I decided to join seeing my systems are getting old.
Great service, nice people!
Thad scheduled a service and all I can say is Thank you. Martin who came out to do the service was kind, friendly, informative and made sure everything was running the way it should. He was awesome. Thank you Martin and Thank you Amazing for being an awesome company from the first phone call to the install to the maintenance. You definitely have my business.
A trusted company and great service from Phillip
Dave is a very hard worker from the time he got here until the time he left. We felt comfortable with him in the house. He was polite. He installed our furnace and made sure everything worked correctly. Installed a new thermostat and helped get it up and running. Thank you Dave we appreciate your time and effort.
Very quick and very professional. The tech Phillip has serviced my unit the past 2 times and he is awesome. Very friendly, very hopeful and very efficient. Def recommend him and your company!!
Yearly check on furnace and ac. Phillip did a very thorough job checking both systems.
Phillip, Dave, and Jose were couldn't have been nicer. They installed my new water heater amazingly fast!
Phillip was on time and did a great job. Thanks Amazing!
They were able to add us in at the last minute, we're on time, quick and responsive
Fast, friendly service. Phil was on time and polite. I am very happy with the service we received.
Thave been using Amazing for years and they have always done a great job. The staff is trustworthy and professional. Amazing has installed my furnace (5 yrs. ago), my water heater (2 yrs. ago), and now my new Air conditioner. I highly recommend Amazing.
Philip came on time, very personable, and knowledgeable. Can always rely on Amazing Air for all our needs.
Dave was fantastic! He installed our new furnace and answered all questions. He cleaned up everything and made sure not to leave anything behind. Customer service has also been fantastic. I would highly recommend them!
Great installation of central AC by the Amazing Air team of Dave and Jose. Competitive pricing and great service as always.
I have been using amazing air for many years. They do an amazing job and their rates are reasonable. I was happy that Ace finally retired but will miss him. Mike is a wonderful replacement for Ace. Mike explained everything and was very pleasant to work with.
Donny took care of us with our annual furnace inspection and cleaning. Dave came and installed our new humidifier. They both were very kind, friendly, and professional. They know their trades! We definitely recommend Amazing Air, Inc., for all your heating and cooling needs.
Uriel, did an excellent job on quickly repairing an older commercial unit on the roof. He worked tirelessly to secure a new part and ensure the unit was up and running same day ! Great job !
Mike and Dominic took out my 22 yr old furnace and replaced a new one on the3 rd floor. So had a lot of steps to carry up and old out. Don’t exaggerate job finished up and cleaned up everything a very cold day great people to work with.! Great co
My furnace was cleaned and maintained. The technician was prompt, friendly, and knowledgeable. I definitely recommend Amazing Air.
We had a problem with our furnace, called Amazing Air for service, within an hour they had a serviceman out, diagnosed our issue and helped us come up with an informed solution. They installed a new furnace for us the next day and did an excellent, professional job. Dave and Mike were very informative and did a great job with the instalation
Mike, was awesome today. He quickly assessed the situation and fix our problem. He’s a true professional at what he does and will recommend him and Amazing to anyone who needs a great heating and cooling system technician. -Russell W. and Mandy J.
This place is fantastic.they offered to bring out temporary heat while we waited for installation. Doug gave us a great estimate and explained in detail what we needed without any attempt to upsell or hard sell. Mike provided a flawless professional installation. I definitely recommend Amazing Air.
Dave from amazing just finished installing our new furnace. He did a wonderful job. There should be more techs like him. Very hard worker, sociable and thorough. Doug should take him out to lunch sometime. Very happy and satisfied with the service amazing provides us.
Dave and Jose we courteous and respectful to us and our home. They removed our old furnace and installed the new one efficiently and professionally They made sure that everything was operating properly. My compliments to them and everyone at Amazing Air.
Our tech came on time,was very friendly, checked out our furnace and water heater and other than we have an older unit everything checked out fine.He did a great job, hope we see him again for any future services!
Do you need a winter furnace tune up? Call Amazing! I have literally been using them for decades and you will not find a better company. They are dependable, reputable and they know their stuff. The techs are all personable, kind, neat, courteous guys. Shout out to Mike P! I promise you will be 100% satisfied with this company. Just tell them Myra Sent you 😉
Very happy with this company .No issues with arriving to take care of issues with air company,Phillip is great ,explains everything in detail Very hospitable,and cares about your needs,am very happy to have Amazing Air for my Hvac needs
A very nice gentleman showed up (I think his name was Phil). I was very happy with the service. It was easy and I really didn’t need to do anything.
Amazing Air, Inc. does a wonderful job maintaining our furnace. The technician, Uriel, was prompt, kind, and thorough. We appreciate their service & upkeep of our system.
We had a check up done on Air Conditioner, Phillip was our technician, he was fast friendly and even fought off some wasps trying to hide out near our compressor.
Fantastic experience with our air conditioner replacement. Dave and Jose did an AMAZING job and were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.
Quick response and great service! Mike arrived earlier than expected which was great. He knew what the issue was with my AC unit and thoroughly explained everything. Fixed the problem quickly and neatly!
Reliable, prompt, knowledgeable, friendly technicians. They offer a nice plan which covers any labor cost, including the A/C clean & check which Phil came out to do today. Great job Phil, thank you!!
Very happy with Amazing. I've relied on them for years and including a very reasonable maintenance plan. Phil was out earlier this week for annual A/C tune up and continued Amazing Air's commitment to being best in class.
Phillip was on time and very considerate of my house using his shoe covers each time entering my house. He did a great job cleaning the furnace and air conditioner. Amazing Air is a very good company .
Since we have the gold package Phil was able to be dispatched to our house in a reasonable amount of time the same day I called. When Phil arrived he was polite and professional. Diagnosed the problem quickly and fixed it. Great work on a 95 degree day! More
Amazing Air has always been good to us, but recently we had work done and Dave and Jose did an exceptional job. Very friendly and knowledgeable and made us feel comfortable with their expertise. Thank you.
Customer service by office staff and techs is top quality. Mike (tech) is friendly and is great at explaining what he is seeing and doing. He saved me a lot of $ by repairing my current humidifier instead of replacing it.
Amazing did a great job, came early and worked efficiently. Dave and Jose were very polite, friendly, and very respectful of our home. At the end they explained everything they did and walked me through everything involved including routine maintenance. Thanks for doing a great job!
Dave and Jose we courteous and respectful to us and our home. They removed our old furnace and installed the new one efficiently and professionally They made sure that everything was operating properly. My compliments to them and everyone at Amazing Air.
Technician from Amazing Heating and Air Conditioning came out on time and very respectful and polite and completed the maintenance services and he reviewed with me him the finding. Also call center very helpful in scheduling appointment! Thank you!
I have become accustomed to good service by Amazing Air and my most recent visit met my expectations. On-time as scheduled , polite, efficient & thorough. Been using Amazing for almost 20 years and will continue to do so.
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