Repair or replace?
Many water heater problems are repairable: a failed heating element or thermostat on an electric heater, a pilot or gas control problem on a gas heater, or a leaking valve or fitting.
A leaking tank is different. Once the tank itself rusts through, it can’t be repaired and needs to be replaced. Age matters too: tank heaters wear out over time, and an older unit with a major failure is often better replaced than repaired.
Signs you may need water heater repair
- No hot water, or hot water that runs out quickly
- Water pooling around the base of the tank
- Rusty or discolored hot water
- Rumbling, popping or banging from the tank
- A pilot light that won’t stay lit
- The relief valve dripping or discharging
Common causes
- Sediment build-up in the bottom of the tank
- Failed heating elements or thermostats (electric)
- Pilot, thermocouple or gas control problems (gas)
- A worn-out anode rod letting the tank corrode
- Loose or leaking connections and valves
Recognize these signs? Call before a small plumbing problem turns into water damage.
(877) 729-0265How we handle it
- DiagnoseWe check power or gas supply, controls, elements or burner, and look for leaks at the tank and fittings.
- Explain the optionsYou’ll know whether it’s a repair or whether replacement makes more sense, and why.
- Repair or replaceFailed parts are replaced, or the old heater is swapped for a new tank or tankless unit.
- TestWe check the temperature, relief valve and connections before we leave.
Tank or tankless?
A tank heater stores hot water and is usually the simplest like-for-like replacement. A tankless heater heats water on demand, takes up less space and doesn’t run out of hot water, but may need gas line, venting or electrical changes. If you’re replacing an old tank, it’s worth asking whether tankless fits your home.
What to do before we arrive
- If the tank is leaking, turn off the cold water supply valve on top of the heater.
- Turn off the power (electric) at the breaker, or set a gas heater to “off” or “vacation”.
- Note the heater’s age and model from the label on the tank.
After the repair
We test the heater and show you where the shutoff valve and relief valve are. If the heater was replaced, the old unit is removed.
What affects the cost
The cost depends on whether it’s a repair or a replacement, gas or electric, tank or tankless, and any venting or connection changes. Repairs are carried out by our plumbing partner. Every home is different, so call and describe the problem for an accurate quote.
Helpful guides
Where we offer water heater repair
We’re based in Bargersville and provide water heater repair across Johnson County and nearby towns: Bargersville, Greenwood, Franklin, Center Grove, Whiteland & New Whiteland, Trafalgar, Nineveh & Prince’s Lakes, Morgantown and Southport & Perry Township.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I have no hot water?
On an electric heater it’s often a tripped breaker, a failed element or a thermostat. On a gas heater it’s often the pilot, thermocouple or gas control. A leak or a very old tank can also be the cause.
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
If the leak is from a valve or fitting, usually yes. If the tank itself is leaking, it needs to be replaced.
Should I switch to a tankless water heater?
It can be a good choice for endless hot water and saving space, but it may need gas, venting or electrical changes. We’ll explain what your home would need.
Why is my water heater making noise?
Rumbling and popping usually come from sediment in the bottom of the tank. Flushing can help; in older tanks it can be a sign the heater is near the end of its life.