Your cheery trees properly went through its alternate-year bearing. In other words, one year, it produced lots of fruits and the next barely any fruits. It's very natural. Congrats to Peter and Pia on their beautiful first home!
Regarding the water heater, if I live alone, I wouldn't need a water heater. Regardless of winter or summer, I enjoyed taking a cold shower. When it is 0 degrees outside, it is better for me. It's very healthy to take cold shower too... 😃