Water Heater Repair & Replacement FAQs

• No hot water or inconsistent temperature
• Rust-colored or cloudy water
• Water leaking from the base of the tank
• Rumbling, popping, or hissing noises
• Pilot light won’t stay lit (gas units)
• Higher energy bills with no change in usage

If you see these symptoms, schedule an inspection — small issues can often be repaired before they become major problems.

For the health and safety of your home and family, always hire a licensed plumbing contractor to replace a water heater, or for any other plumbing work needed at your home or business.

• are professionals who have undergone extensive and required state training and have passed a licensing exam.
• are qualified to perform all types of plumbing installations and repairs.
• are constantly upgrading their knowledge, skill-set, and familiarity with mandatory local plumbing codes.

In most states, the law requires a licensed plumber to install plumbing fixtures – including water heaters. Hiring an unlicensed plumber or “handyman” can put your health, safety, and property at risk. It’s essential to leave plumbing work to the professionals.

This usually means sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Minerals from hard water settle and harden, trapping heat under the layer of scale and creating “popping” sounds. A professional tank flush can often fix this and restore efficiency.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 120°F for most homes — hot enough to prevent bacteria growth but safe enough to avoid scalding. If your family uses a dishwasher without a booster heater, 130–140°F may be appropriate, but consider installing a mixing valve for safety. See HotWaterSafety.org for more safety information.

A few possible causes:

• Sediment buildup reducing tank capacity
• Failing heating elements (electric) or burner (gas)
• Thermostat malfunction
• Tank undersized for your household’s demand Have a professional evaluate — sometimes a simple fix, like thermostat calibration or element replacement, restores full performance.

It’s not recommended. Water heaters involve plumbing, electrical, gas, and venting — all of which must meet local and state codes for safety and warranty compliance. DIY installation can void your warranty or even cause serious damage or injury. Always use a licensed, insured, background-checked installer.

In most cities and states, yes — especially for gas or electric units tied to your plumbing and venting systems. Permits ensure the work meets code and is inspected for safety. A professional installer handles all necessary permits and documentation for you.

You should flush your tank once a year to remove sediment and maintain efficiency. Homes with hard water may benefit from flushing every 6 months. For tankless models, perform a vinegar or descaling flush annually to prevent scale buildup.

• Test the temperature & pressure relief (T&P) valve annually
• Flush sediment from the tank
• Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years
• Check for leaks, corrosion, and proper venting
• Confirm thermostat settings (120°F recommended) Consistent maintenance helps prevent early failure and ensures safety.

Top leaks may come from loose connections, fittings, or the T&P valve. Leaks at the bottom usually indicate internal tank failure or corrosion — often not repairable. If your tank is leaking from the bottom, it’s time to replace it immediately to avoid water damage.

You can choose between:

• Tank water heaters (gas, electric, or propane) for steady demand
• Tankless units for endless on-demand hot water
• Hybrid heat pump models for maximum energy efficiency

You can also decide whether to purchase outright or lease through a worry-free monthly plan that covers all repairs and replacements.