A garage conversion either shares the house water heater or gets its own. Distance, recovery capacity, and whether the space is a full ADU or a JADU decide that. This site does not publish installed water-heater prices. The licensed plumber prices the unit from the approved plans.
Sharing the existing heater
A JADU next to the house, with light kitchen and bath use, sometimes shares. A long run to a detached garage means a wait at the tap and heat loss in the pipe. A tank that already serves a family can run short if a tenant showers at the same time.
Why a full ADU often gets its own unit
A full ADU is an independent household. A dedicated tankless unit saves floor space. A small tank can work for lighter JADU demand. Electric tankless needs panel capacity. New gas service is a separate permit question. Do not pick electric tankless from a website amp rumor. Read the panel and the Title 24 report.
What to put in the written scope
Pipe run length. Simultaneous use. Gas versus electric availability. Whether the unit is a JADU or a full ADU. Venting and freeze protection are milder in San Diego than in cold climates, but the plumber still specifies the listing and the location.
Heat-pump tanks need room around them. A slim tankless unit often fits a garage closet better.
Water-heater work is part of the plumbing permit packet. Confirm the current scope with the department that will stamp the job.
Garage Convert SD matches homeowners with licensed, independent local professionals. The homeowner contracts with and pays that professional directly. Call (858) 400-4935. See plumbing for ADU.
Can a garage conversion ADU share the house’s existing water heater?
Sometimes, when the run is short and demand is modest. A detached full ADU more often needs its own unit.
Is tankless better than a tank for an ADU?
Tankless saves floor space and can supply continuous hot water. A small tank can be simpler to service. The plumber matches the choice to the plans.
Does an ADU water heater need its own permit?
Water-heater installation is typically inside the plumbing permit. Confirm the live checklist with the building department.