When repair makes sense
- The unit is fairly new and has a single, specific fault
- No hot water caused by a failed heating element, thermostat, igniter or pilot
- Water that is not hot enough and the cause is a thermostat setting or part
- A leak from a fitting or valve rather than the tank
When replacement makes sense
- Water leaking from the tank itself
- Heavy rust or rusty hot water coming from the tank
- A tank water heater that is older and needing repeated repairs
- Loud rumbling caused by heavy sediment in an aging tank
- A household that has outgrown the unit's capacity
Tank vs. tankless water heaters
| Tank | Tankless | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Stores and keeps a set volume of water hot | Heats water on demand as it flows |
| Up-front cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Hot water supply | Limited by tank size until it recovers | Continuous, up to the unit's flow rating |
| Installation needs | Space for the tank and standard connections | Adequate gas or electrical supply and venting, which can add work |
How long do water heaters last?
Tank water heaters often start to fail after about 10 years, and tankless units commonly last longer, though water quality, maintenance and how heavily the unit is used all affect lifespan.
Water heater safety
If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. If a tank is leaking near electrical equipment, switch off power to the unit at the breaker and shut off the cold-water supply to it, then call a plumber.
Questions to ask before you decide
- How old is the unit, and what exactly has failed?
- Is the problem a part or the tank itself?
- What size or flow rating does my household need?
- What gas, electrical or venting work would a new unit require?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
Usually yes. Shut off the cold-water supply to the heater, switch off its power or gas, and call a plumber. A leak from the tank itself means the tank needs to be replaced.
Why am I running out of hot water?
Common causes are a failed heating element, a thermostat problem, sediment in the tank or a unit that is too small for the household.
Can a plumber replace a water heater the same day?
Many standard tank replacements can be done in a single visit, while tankless installations or jobs needing venting, gas or electrical work take longer. See water heater repair and replacement.
Related Services
- Water Heater Repair & Replacement
Repair and replacement for tank and tankless water heaters, including emergency no-hot-water and leak calls.
- Emergency Burst Pipe Repair
24/7 help for burst, frozen or leaking pipes: water shut-off, leak location and repair or replacement.