By Modern Plumbing, Inc. — Family-Owned & Operated Since 1978
When it’s time to replace your water heater, the options can be overwhelming. Should you go with gas or electric? Tank or tankless? The right choice can help you save on energy bills, improve performance, and keep your hot water running reliably for years to come.

At Modern Plumbing, Inc., our licensed and insured plumbers specialize in water heater repair, replacement, and installation across Citrus County, Florida, including Inverness, Lecanto, Crystal River, Hernando, Homosassa, and Floral City. Here’s everything you need to know before selecting your next water heater.

💧 1. Determine the Right Water Heater Size (in Gallons)Water heaters come in different tank sizes, commonly ranging from 30 to 80 gallons.

• A small household (1–2 people) may only need a 30–40 gallon tank.
• Larger families often require 50 gallons or more to meet daily demand.

Choosing the correct size prevents both energy waste and hot water shortages. If you’re not sure what size you need, our plumbers can measure your current setup and recommend the best AO Smith ProLine model for your home.


🧍‍♂️ 2. Measure the Height and Space Around Your Heater
Before replacement, measure how tall your current water heater is and note any space limitations around it. Some homes—especially garages and closets—require a “short” or “low-boy” model to fit properly. Proper spacing ensures safe installation and allows for future maintenance.

⚡ 3. Is your Existing Heater Electric or Gas powered?
Ask yourself: Is your water heater electric or gas-powered? Most water heaters in Citrus County are typically Tank Type Electric. It is important to stay with the same type of heater to avoid modifications.

Modern Plumbing installs both electric and gas AO Smith ProLine water heaters with same-day installation and free estimates.

🚪 4. Consider Location: Is It in the Garage or Inside the Home?
Most Citrus County homes have their water heaters in the garage. If your water heater is tucked in a small closet or corner it is very important to make sure to select a heater that will fit in properly to avoid costly modifications. Water heaters installed in living spaces require water heater pans with drain lines. 

🧱 5. Is Your Heater Installed on a Shelf?
Is your heater is on a raised platform? Picking the correct water heater is important due to space limitations on shelves. It also requires two plumbers to safely get the old water heater down and the new water heater up. We would love to give you a Free Onsite Estimate for these heaters.

🚰 6. County Water or Well Water?

• County or City Water with Meters Water Heater Installations Include Code Required Expansion Tanks Per Florida Plumbing Code. Expansion tanks are a safety device installed above your water heater that allows thermal expansion absorption.  Well Water systems do not require Expansion Tanks. 

⏳ 7. How Old Is Your Water Heater?
Most traditional water heaters last 12–15 years. If yours is older—or showing signs of rust, leaks, or longer heating times—it may be time to replace it. Installing a new energy-efficient model can reduce energy costs by up to 20–30%.


✅ Quick Checklist: Water Heater Questions
Before scheduling your free estimate, take a minute to answer these questions:

• What size is your heater in gallons?
• How tall is your heater?
• Is it Electric or Gas?
• Is your heater located in your garage?
• Is your heater on a shelf?
• Are you on County Water or Well Water?
• Do you know the approximate age of the heater?
• Is there any limitation in space around the heater?

Having these answers ready helps Modern Plumbing quickly recommend the best water heater replacement or installation for your home.

📞 Call Modern Plumbing for a Free Water Heater Estimate

Don’t wait for a cold shower!
Call Modern Plumbing, Inc. today at 📱 (352) 726-5601 for a Free Estimate and Same-Day Service.
We proudly serve Inverness, Lecanto, Crystal River, Hernando, Homosassa, and all of Citrus County.
👉 Family-Owned Since 1978 — “Your Grandma’s Favorite Plumber!”

When it’s time to replace your water heater, it’s tempting to head straight to your local big-box store. Lowe’s, for example, sells the AO Smith Signature Series water heaters, a well-known brand at a convenient price point. But is it the best option for your home?

At Modern Plumbing, Inc., we proudly install the AO Smith ProLine Electric Water Heater, a superior professional-grade model that offers higher quality, better performance, and longer-lasting value.
Let’s break down the differences and why going with Modern Plumbing and the AO Smith ProLine makes the smart choice.

🔧 1. Built for Professionals: ProLine = Premium Quality
The AO Smith ProLine Series is exclusively sold to licensed plumbers—not available to the general public. These models are designed with higher-grade components, tighter quality control, and enhanced durability. In contrast, the Signature Series at Lowe’s is built for DIY installation and comes with lighter-duty components to keep retail costs low.
Key ProLine Features:

• Commercial-grade heating elements
• Brass drain valves (vs. plastic on retail models)
• Higher energy efficiency ratings
• Built for longer lifespan and daily demand

🛠️ 2. Professional Installation Matters
Buying a water heater at Lowe’s often means hiring a third-party contractor—or worse, trying to install it yourself. With Modern Plumbing, Inc., you get licensed, insured technicians who handle every step professionally, from removal to code-compliant installation.
Benefits of choosing Modern Plumbing:

• Full warranty protection (including labor)
• Accurate sizing and placement
• Code-approved pressure relief valves and expansion tanks
• No installation guesswork—just peace of mind

🔒 3. Warranty and Support: Better with ProLine
AO Smith ProLine water heaters installed by Modern Plumbing come with longer warranties, stronger support, and direct manufacturer backing when installed by a licensed plumber.

🏆 4. Long-Term Value You Can Trust
Yes, the Signature Series may look more affordable up front—but with shorter lifespans, more frequent repairs, and lower energy efficiency, it often ends up costing homeowners more in the long run.
Choosing Modern Plumbing and the AO Smith ProLine Series gives you:

• A more durable, efficient heater
• Full professional installation and inspection
• Fewer repairs, longer life
• Modern Plumbing 1 Year Warranty Coverage

✅ Final Verdict: Go Pro with Modern Plumbing
If you want a reliable, long-lasting water heater backed by expert installation and local support, Modern Plumbing, Inc. is your best bet. The AO Smith ProLine Electric Water Heater isn’t just a better product—it’s a smarter investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency.
📍 Serving Citrus County, FL and surrounding areas
📞 Call Now: (352) 726-5601
🌐 Schedule Online at www.citruscountyplumbers.com
💧 “Modern Plumbing – Your Local Water Heater Experts.”