Water heaters
Water heater repair for gas, electric and tankless units
Most water heater problems come from a failed heating element or thermostat (electric), a bad thermocouple, igniter or gas valve (gas), or sediment buildup. A leak from the tank itself usually means replacement, not repair.
- Licensed plumbers in all 50 states
- Upfront pricing from the plumber before work
- Free referral, no obligation
Start by narrowing it down. No hot water at all on an electric heater often points to a tripped breaker, a reset button or a burned-out element. Hot water that runs out fast suggests a failed lower element or a broken dip tube. On a gas heater, a pilot that won't stay lit usually means a thermocouple or flame sensor. Popping and rumbling are sediment, which is especially common where the water is hard.
The repair decision often comes down to age and the tank. Tank water heaters commonly last around 8 to 12 years. Parts like elements, thermostats, anode rods and gas controls are worth replacing on a younger unit. Water leaking from the tank body means the steel has rusted through, and the only fix is water heater replacement.
Water Heater Repair at a glance
- Service
- Water Heater Repair
- Category
- Water heaters
- Availability
- Scheduled and same-day visits, depending on local availability
- Service area
- All 50 states and Washington, DC
- Also called
- hot water heater repair, no hot water, water heater service
- Typical life
- About 8 to 12 years for tank heaters
- Cost
- Quoted on site by the pro before work starts; see cost factors below
Signs you need water heater repair
- No hot water, or it runs out quickly
- Water that is rusty or smells like rotten eggs
- Popping, rumbling or banging from the tank
- Water pooling around the base of the heater
- A pilot light that won't stay lit, or a tripping breaker
What the pro does, step by step
- 1
Safety check
The plumber checks gas connections and venting on gas units, and power and wiring on electric units.
- 2
Diagnose
Elements, thermostats, thermocouples, igniters, the gas valve, T&P valve and anode rod are tested to find the failed part.
- 3
Repair or recommend
Failed parts are replaced on the spot when possible. If the tank is leaking or the unit is near end of life, you get a replacement quote.
- 4
Flush and set
Where appropriate, the tank is flushed of sediment and the temperature set to around 120°F.
What affects the cost of water heater repair
Prices vary by market and job. The pro gives you a price before starting; these factors drive it.
- Gas, electric or tankless
- Which part failed and whether it's in stock
- Age and brand of the heater
- Whether flushing or descaling is needed
- Access (attic, closet or crawl space installs take longer)
What you can safely do, and when to stop
Safe to do yourself
- Check the breaker or reset button on an electric heater
- Relight a gas pilot following the label on the tank
- Drain a few gallons from the valve to check for sediment
- Set the thermostat to about 120°F
Stop and call a pro
- Gas smell or scorch marks near the burner
- Water leaking from the tank body
- The T&P relief valve is discharging
- You'd need to open electrical panels on the heater
Water Heater Repair FAQ
How long does a water heater last?
Tank water heaters commonly last about 8 to 12 years; tankless units can last 15 to 20 years with regular descaling. Hard water and skipped maintenance shorten both.
Is it worth repairing an old water heater?
If the unit is under about 8 years old and the tank isn't leaking, replacing a part is usually worth it. If it's older and needs a major repair, replacement is often the better value.
Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?
Bacteria in the tank can react with the magnesium anode rod and produce hydrogen sulfide. Replacing the anode with an aluminum-zinc rod and flushing the tank usually fixes it.
Why is my water heater making popping noises?
Sediment on the bottom of the tank traps water that boils and pops as the burner or element heats it. Flushing helps; in very hard water areas it may need to be done every year.
Water Heater Repair near you
Available in all 50 states. Find local conditions for your area:
Or browse by state: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii and all states.
Related services
Water Heater Replacement
Replacing a water heater means choosing the right type and size, then installing it to current code, which often includes a new expansion tank, venting, seismic straps or a drain pan.
Learn more
Leak Detection
Leak detection locates hidden leaks in walls, floors, slabs and yard lines using meter tests, pressure testing, acoustic listening and thermal imaging, so the plumber opens only the spot that needs repair..
Learn more
Emergency Plumbing
An emergency plumber stops active leaks, sewage backups and loss of water or hot water before they damage your home.
Learn moreHelpful guides
Water Heater Leaking? What to Do Right Now
Turn off the cold water supply valve on top of the heater and shut off the power or set the gas to off. Then find the source: fittings and valves can be repaired, but a leak from the tank itself means the heater must be replaced.
Read the guideTank vs. Tankless Water Heater: Which Is Right for You?
Tank heaters cost less to buy and install and are simple to replace. Tankless heaters cost more upfront but supply endless hot water, take less space and last longer. Your gas line, venting and how long you'll stay usually decide it.
Read the guideGet water heater repair help now
Call (888) 555-0142 to reach an available local pro, or request service online.