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Water Heaters

Water Heater Problems: Repair, Replace, Tank or Tankless?

No hot water, odd noises or a puddle at the base. Here's how to tell what the heater is saying, and how to choose between repair, replacement, tank and tankless.

Plumber working on a gas water heater

Signs it is the water heater

  • No hot water, or hot water that runs out quickly
  • Rust-colored hot water
  • Rumbling or popping noises from the tank
  • Water around the base of the unit
  • A heater that has simply been running for a long time

Repair or replace?

A failed part on a heater that is otherwise sound is usually worth repairing. Replacement is the better call when the tank itself is leaking, when the unit is old and keeps needing repairs, or when the repair would cost a large share of a new heater. A leaking fitting is a repair. A leaking tank is a replacement.

If you ever smell gas near a water heater, leave the building and call your gas utility or emergency services first. Then call a plumber.

Tank or tankless?

Tankless is not better. It is better for some houses. Tank units are simpler and a straightforward swap. Tankless suits some homes well, and can be the wrong choice for others depending on the gas line, venting and how the household uses hot water. We will tell you honestly which one fits yours, including when tankless is the wrong answer.

What a proper water heater install includes

  • Tank and tankless installation and replacement
  • Expansion tank and T&P valve compliance
  • Same-day replacement on most standard swaps
  • The old unit hauled away, with no surcharge

We install and repair water heaters in Grand Junction, Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, Rifle and across the Grand Valley and I-70 corridor. If you have a boiler instead, see our boiler service.

Common questions

How do I know if my water heater needs replacing?

Common signs are a leaking tank, rust-colored hot water, repeated repairs and a unit that has been running for many years. A plumber can look at the tank and tell you whether a repair still makes sense.

Is a tankless water heater better than a tank?

Not always. Tankless suits some homes and not others, depending on the gas line, venting and hot water use. We give an honest tank-versus-tankless recommendation for your house.

Can you replace a water heater the same day?

Most standard swaps are done the same day, and the old unit is hauled away.

What should I do if the tank is leaking?

A leaking tank usually means replacement. Shut off the water to the heater and its power or gas, and call a plumber.

Do you offer emergency plumbing service?

Yes. Elite Plumbing & Drains offers 24/7 emergency service.

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