Get matched with top water heater pros in Estherville, IA

Q: How often should you replace an anode rod?

• <div><p>Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener. </p></div>

Q: Are hot water heater expansion tanks required for warranty coverage?

• <div><p>Depending on the brand of water heater, you may need to install an expansion tank in order to meet the conditions for warranty coverage. It&rsquo;s important for consumers to read the fine print of the warranty to see if an expansion tank is necessary. Even if an expansion tank isn&rsquo;t required for the warranty, it&rsquo;s usually mandated by building codes&mdash;although not for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-tankless-water-heater-cost.htm">tankless water heaters</a>.</p></div>

Q: What size wire should I use for a 30-amp hot water heater?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/wire-guage-amp-chart.htm">standard copper wire gauge</a> to use with any 30-amp circuit is a 10-gauge wire. The National Electric Code specifies a 10-gauge wire with appliances like water heaters running on 30 amps. If you try to use a smaller gauge wire, such as a 12 gauge, with a 30-amp breaker, you run the risk of the wire overheating and melting or causing a fire. Because of the safety hazards, the gauge of the wire is not an area to try to cut costs when connecting a 30-amp breaker to a water heater.</p></div>

Q: How do you know when your electric hot water heater is going out?

• <div><p>Signs your electric water heater is failing include inconsistent water temperature, reduced hot water supply, longer heating times, or discolored water (rusty or cloudy). Unusual noises like popping or rumbling suggest sediment buildup, while leaks or corrosion around the tank signal structural damage. If your unit is over 10 to 15 years old and experiencing frequent issues, it may be time to replace it.</p></div>

Q: How often should a gas water heater be replaced?

• <div><p>You should replace your gas water heater when it&rsquo;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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-replace-gas-water-heater.htm">replace your water heater</a>. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Estherville, IA

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Estherville, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Estherville, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Heater Service needs.

Last update on December 05, 2025

Reviewed in May 2019
D & E did the fill dirt around our house to help with the water issues in our basement. They did an amazing job and it was very affordable.
D AND E OUTSIDE SERVICES, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2016
Excellent! The problem was solved with the diagnosis from Neighbors.I had been having problems with drains in one of my rental homes. I was in New York when it happened. Water was coming down through the ceiling and into the basement. I asked neighbors to come and help diagnose the problem and...
Neighbors Heating Cooling Plumbing & Geothermal
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2013
I had gone without water for two weeks, because the plumbers' businesses in my county did not come when they promised, nor would they return calls, nor say why they didn't want the job, nor give any other professional response. But Mike came within hours of my call, from the next county over. ...
Mike's Plumbing and Pump Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2013
Mike arrived right on time and got started after introductions. He did a thorough job inspecting both buildings for a very reasonable price. He climbed up on the roofs of both inspected gutter chimneys, then around both foundations. Then inside checking both furnaces and AC units. Windows,...
The BrickKicker
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2013
The water softener doesn't work as well as the softener that we replaced. Service provided to fix the problem is not acceptable. We are going to replace this softener with a different brand from a different company.
Culligan Water of Atlantic
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2013
The water faucet leaked water because the seal did not fit the openings in our sink correctly. They came back and sealed it with calk. I could have easily done that myself. I paid for and expected a professional installation job. What I got was a sloppy quick fix. I have now replace the...
MASKER PLUMBING & HEATING
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2012
Kevin and Nate first pre-plumbed our drains and well runs before the concrete floor was poured and as soon as the inside was ready for the rough in they came back and worked with us on the locations of everything and talked us through what they would be doing and when. We felt totally...
City Plumbing
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2009
Mark the manager and Dave the Mechanic are wonders. They are two honest men. "Only what you need...at a price guaranteed," isn't just a sales come-on. They live by that motto. Dave said, "I've had some success draining/flushing heater cores before. I can't be sure of the results unless I try....
EXHAUST PROS
Request a quote

Find Water heater pros in Estherville

Engineered Farm Drainage

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Engineered Farm Drainage

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

20 local quotes requested

5 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

27900 local quotes requested

NEW! Appliance Consultation – Just $35 Get expert advice before you spend on repairs or replacements. A Neli technician will evaluate your issue and help you decide if your appliance can be fixed—or if it’s time for a new one. Virtual Appliance Diagnosis and Repair - Just $45 Service Description: Diagnose or repair your appliance virtually—no need for anyone to enter your home. Neli’s certified technicians guide you step-by-step via secure video chat. How It Works: Book online at nelihome.com or call 833-876-0900 Connect with a tech through our video platform Diagnose or fix the issue in real time Get expert advice and confidence in your next steps What’s Included: Real-time video guidance from a certified technician Diagnosis of the issue OR full repair (when possible) Step-by-step guidance using your smartphone or tablet Safe, contact-free service - no one in your home Flexible scheduling—appointments available daily Perfect For: Appliance fixes HVAC troubleshooting DIY-savvy homeowners Saving time and money on service calls

"Quick and helpful"

Joe U on November 2025

"Quick and helpful"

Joe U on November 2025

Jordan boyd

No reviews yet

Jordan boyd

No reviews yet

5 years of experience

New and remodels, drain cleaning main drains and smaller drains, water lines, sewer lines, main water valves, water heaters, trailer homes heat tape

Comfortec Heating Cooling & Plumbing Inc

No reviews yet

Comfortec Heating Cooling & Plumbing Inc

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

At Comfortec we are honored to work for you. When you invite a Comfortec employee into your Northwest Iowa home we will be on time, courteous and professional. Our technicians use carpet mask, protective shoe covers, and drop cloths to prevent your home from having damages caused by our service.

Krell Distributing Co Inc

No reviews yet

Krell Distributing Co Inc

No reviews yet

53 years of experience

Additional DBA - Krell Industries. Family owned & operated. Nationwide service.

Solar Wolf Energy

2.00(

)

Solar Wolf Energy

2.00(

)

10 years of experience

Solar Wolf is a full service solar company with a great reputation and an old world belief to our customers. To under-promise and over-deliver, period. We have 18 years experience in construction, remodeling, roofing, solar water heaters, solar pv systems, battery back-up systems and much more. See what Solar Wolf Energy can do for you!

Sanborn Hardware

No reviews yet

Sanborn Hardware

No reviews yet

25 years of experience

We employ 3 full time employees and 4 part time employees. We deliver equipment to homes, and jobsites. We also help customers get the necessary supplies for their numerous projects.

FIX-A-LOT Handyman Service

No reviews yet

FIX-A-LOT Handyman Service

No reviews yet

14 years of experience

Flexible hours to fit your needs. Free estimates. Reliable, professional, insured.

H1H2O Sewer & Drain Cleaning

No reviews yet

H1H2O Sewer & Drain Cleaning

No reviews yet

Terry has been providing the great people of Ottumwa, Oskaloosa, Pella, and the surrounding communities unparalleled service for the last 16 years. Terry not only provides service to residential and commercial customers, he is also the one plumbers call to get the job done. H1H2O Sewer & Drain Cleaning Service is has the lowest prices around. Contact Terry for the following: •Drain Cleaning •Sewer Cleaning •Minor Plumbing •Flooded Basements •Bathroom Drain Clearing • Kitchen sinks unclogged •Toilets and Tubs unclogged •Septic Tank Line Cleaning •Residential •Commercial H1H2O Sewer & Drain Cleaning Service is a locally owned and operated business. Call today for prompt and reliable service! Drain Cleaning Sewer Cleaning Minor Plumbing Basements pumped out Bathroom Drain Clearing Bathroom and Kitchen sinks unclogged Toilets and Tubs unclogged Residential Commercial Ottumwa, Iowa, Oskaloosa, Iowa, Pella, Iowa, Fairfield, Iowa.

Eledge Plumbing

No reviews yet

Eledge Plumbing

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Business CategoryPlumbing Contractors, Plumbers - Commercial, Plumbing - Renovation & Repair, Plumbing Drains & Sewer Cleaning, Water Heaters - Repairing, In-floor Heating, Water Heater - Tankless, Water Heaters - Parts & Supplies Products & Services.This company provides residential and light commercial plumbing contractor services including drain line replacements, water heater repairs, reverse osmosis filters and plumbing repairs. They also offer in-floor heating services. - Radon testing and Mitigation

Showing 1-10 of 24

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener.

Depending on the brand of water heater, you may need to install an expansion tank in order to meet the conditions for warranty coverage. It’s important for consumers to read the fine print of the warranty to see if an expansion tank is necessary. Even if an expansion tank isn’t required for the warranty, it’s usually mandated by building codes—although not for tankless water heaters.

The standard copper wire gauge to use with any 30-amp circuit is a 10-gauge wire. The National Electric Code specifies a 10-gauge wire with appliances like water heaters running on 30 amps. If you try to use a smaller gauge wire, such as a 12 gauge, with a 30-amp breaker, you run the risk of the wire overheating and melting or causing a fire. Because of the safety hazards, the gauge of the wire is not an area to try to cut costs when connecting a 30-amp breaker to a water heater.

Signs your electric water heater is failing include inconsistent water temperature, reduced hot water supply, longer heating times, or discolored water (rusty or cloudy). Unusual noises like popping or rumbling suggest sediment buildup, while leaks or corrosion around the tank signal structural damage. If your unit is over 10 to 15 years old and experiencing frequent issues, it may be time to replace it.

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 Estherville, IA homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 28, 2025May 28, 2025
How Much Does a Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]
Learn about the different factors that go into water heater gas valve replacement costs to see if you should DIY the project or call a pro.
Angi
•
Oct 20, 2025Oct 20, 2025
How Much Does Tankless Water Heater Repair Cost? [2025 Data]
Find out the average tankless water heater repair cost, what impacts pricing, and how to save. Get expert tips to plan your repair budget with confidence.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jun 3, 2025Jun 3, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Hot Water Heater? [2025 Data]
Running out of hot water too quickly or hearing strange noises when you call for hot water? Use this water heater repair cost guide to see what a fix will cost.
Allie Ogletree
•
Apr 10, 2025Apr 10, 2025
How to Reset a Water Heater In 5 Simple Steps
Learn the step-by-step process of resetting your water heater safely—our guide provides easy-to-follow instructions to help you restore your hot water supply.
Kelly Weimert
•
Apr 8, 2025Apr 8, 2025
Can You Still Use Water if Your Water Heater Is Leaking?
If your water heater is leaking, you can still use water as long as you have a repair plan. Here’s what you need to know about a leaking water heater.
Kate Fann
•
Apr 1, 2025Apr 1, 2025
How Do Water Heater Warranties Work?
Purchasing a water heater warranty to protect yourself against unforeseen repair costs might not seem important, but it could save you big bucks in the long run.