Buford runs its own water, sewer and gas utilities, which matters when a water heater is replaced: gas leaks inside the city gas territory go to the City of Buford Gas Department, and the permit comes from either the city or Gwinnett County depending on whether you are inside city limits. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Buford.
What happens when you call
The call connects you with an independent plumber who works in Buford. Expect a few questions: is the tank leaking now, is it gas or electric, how many gallons, and where is it installed. If water is on the floor, the plumber will walk you through closing the cold supply valve and shutting off power or gas before anyone arrives. On site, they confirm the old unit really is finished, measure the space, check the venting and gas line, and give you a price for a matching or upgraded heater.
What affects the price
- Fuel and type: gas tank, electric tank, tankless or heat pump
- Capacity and recovery rate for your household
- Access to the heater and how far it must be carried
- Code updates such as a drain pan, relief line or expansion tank
- Gas connector, shutoff valve and vent connector condition
- The city or county permit and haul-away of the old tank
Buford specifics
The City of Buford Water Department supplies most of the city from Lake Lanier, treated at its membrane ultrafiltration plant, and also buys a small share of water from Gwinnett County. Buford-mailing addresses outside city limits may be on Gwinnett County water instead.
Inside city limits, plumbing inspections go through the City of Buford Inspection Department (678-546-3514, inspections@cityofbuford.com). A county permit roundup shows Gwinnett County Planning and Development issuing a water heater replacement permit for a Buford-mailing address, so unincorporated addresses go to the county.
Buford's municipal gas system serves more than 46,000 customers across parts of several counties. If you smell gas, leave first, then call 911 or the Buford gas leak line from a safe place: 770-932-7981 during the day, or 770-932-7986 after hours, on weekends and on holidays.
About 25.1% of Buford homes were built before 1980, so older houses near downtown may need valve or pipe updates at the heater.
Before the plumber arrives
- Clear a path to the heater and the area around it
- Locate the main water shutoff and the gas meter
- Find out whether your address is inside city limits
- Have the old heater's label photo handy
- Move pets and stored items away from the work area
Water Heater Replacement questions in Buford
Who issues the permit for a water heater replacement here?
Which gas company do I call about a leak at my address?
What size tank should replace the old one?
What happens to the old water heater?
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