"My hot water heater stopped working. As it was 8 years old, I thought I would have to buy a new one. But when Guy from Anchorage Plumbing & Heating arrived, he said he could fix it, and he did. I have hot water again, and I didn't have to buy a new one. Saved me a lot of money. This is the company I will use from now on for plumbing and heating problems."
"Moore removed and replaced my water heater in mid November. First class work performed and no issues with it since. Had the duct work cleaned for the first time and while pricey worth knowing they’re clean of debris."
There are pros and cons to tankless water heaters. They are more efficient than traditional tank water heaters, and maintenance costs are lower. These units are also much more compact. On the other hand, they cost about twice as much to install as traditional tank water heaters and are more limited in terms of flow rate.
Electric water heaters typically last 10 to 20 years, though proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency—such as higher energy bills, frequent repairs, or leaks—replacement is a smart investment. Tankless models last over 20 years, which can make them a longer-lasting alternative to traditional tank water heaters.
If you want instant hot water and to reduce water waste while improving convenience, a hot water recirculating system is worth it, especially if you find your hot water heater is not hot enough. These systems can save thousands of gallons of water each year so you don't have to wait for hot water at faucets and showers. The upfront investment can be high, especially for systems requiring additional plumbing, but the long-term savings on water bills and added comfort make them a worthwhile upgrade.
You can and should vent the gas from your hot water heater to the outside of your home. Traditionally, these gases were vented back to other gas appliances, like stoves or furnaces, but many jurisdictions have outlawed this practice due to the risks it provides.
Most water heaters today use atmospheric venting that exhausts the gas out of the home through a pipe.
You should replace your gas water heater when it’s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to replace your water heater. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.
The Wrangell, AK homeowners’ guide to water heater services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Wondering how much a water heater expansion tank costs? Use this cost guide to get an accurate estimate and learn how to choose the right one for your home.
Who can install a water heater for you? Look to hire a water heater installation pro or a licensed plumber for this job because of the challenges involved.
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.
