Can a water heater element be replaced without draining the tank?

• <div><p>No, you’ll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don’t always need to drain it completely. If you’re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you’re replacing the lower element, you’ll need to drain the whole thing. </p></div>

Are tankless water heaters more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters?

• <div><p>According to the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/tankless-or-demand-type-water-heaters">U.S. Department of Energy</a>, tankless water heaters are anywhere from 8% to 34% more efficient than regular water heaters. Exactly how much energy you’ll save depends on your household’s water usage. When you purchase a tankless water heater, you’ll also likely upgrade to more efficient technology than your current water heater, which can add to energy savings.</p></div>

How long do water heaters last?

• <div><p>The lifespan of your water heater depends on the type of water. For traditional water heaters, you can expect it to last between <b>8 and 12 years</b> if gas or <b>10 to 15 years</b> if electric. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-are-pros-and-cons-tankless-water-heaters.htm">Tankless water heaters</a> can last up to <b>20 years</b> with proper maintenance. The total number of years you’ll get out of your water heater depends on the maintenance it receives and how much it’s used.</p></div>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Hebron Estates, KY

There are 7 highly-rated local water heater pros.

TRUSTED BY HEBRON ESTATES, KY HOMEOWNERS

4.7
Average homeowner rating
29
Verified water heater services reviews

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Hebron Estates, KY

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Hebron Estates, KY 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 Hebron Estates, KY 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 October 04, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
We had a valve go out on our hot water heater along with a low-pressure issue in our bathroom. Dillon and Gino, from United Plumbing, got both issues repaired quickly and professionally. The whole transaction was very smooth and reasonably priced. I really appreciate all of their work. I...
UNITED PLUMBING
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Reviewed in April 2024
The entire project from start to finish was amazing. On time, great communication, and the quality of work was second to none. Normally you pay outrageous prices for these things but Peyton is honest and transparent with pricing so you feel like whatever you’re needing done is actually...
Ed's Plumbing, Restoration, & Remodeling
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Reviewed in May 2013
They told me I had to replace the water heater. You can never tell if it’s true though. I had it replaced. It was for a rental home further away, so I couldn’t really look at it myself, so I had to rely on their recommendation. The replacement itself went well; they did a good job there.
Excalibur Plumbing
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Reviewed in March 2024
Ten years ago we were referred to Jerry Bryant to replace our water heater. He was able to schedule a replacement before the water heater quit completely. At that time his pricing was reasonable and the install and service was excellent. Yesterday the 6 yr. water heater he installed in 2014...
Jerry A Bryant & Sons Plumbing
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Reviewed in December 2011
Matt, was on time, performed checks well and efficiently. Explained different modes with water heater. Is my service technician, knows my system well, will use him and the company again.
Allgeier Air
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Reviewed in July 2011
Although they were two hours late, they performed well and professionally and I am pleased with their work.
Maeser Master Services, LLC
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Find Water heater pros in Hebron Estates

Maeser Master Services, LLC

Maeser Master Services, LLC

Customers say: Super punctual

280 local quotes requested

50 years of experience

Since 1975 Maeser has provided Louisville area families and businesses with plumbing services, heating and air conditioning, plus bathroom remodeling, improving indoor air quality and more. Visit our Bath Design Studio to get started on your bathroom remodeling project. Additional DBA - Marvin Maeser Plumbing. Award Winning. See website for additional service areas at www.maeser.com.

"It went great!! I was very satisfied and pleased with the services provided."

Ann K on August 2025

"It went great!! I was very satisfied and pleased with the services provided."

Ann K on August 2025

Tom Drexler Plumbing Air & Electric

Tom Drexler Plumbing Air & Electric

Customers say: Super punctual

956 local quotes requested

43 years of experience

Full service plumbing, HVAC and electrical contractor specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. All work is performed by our trained and highly experienced technicians - not subcontractors. All Tom Drexler employees are background checked and drug tested for your protection. We are a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. We service residential homes, apartments/condos, restaurants and rental properties. Additional Contact - Tom Drexler. Additional Email - [email protected].

"I typically do not leave reviews, but my experience with Tom Drexler Plumbing was so poor that I feel compelled to share it in hopes of preventing others from wasting their time and money. I initially contacted the company to address a leaking faucet in a spare bathroom. I was given a vague appointment window of 8 AM to 5 PM and informed that if I didn’t answer a call prior to their arrival, the technician would not show up. When the technician arrived, he spent time criticizing the company’s hiring practices rather than focusing on the repair. He determined that a full tub and shower replacement was needed, quoting over $1,000. The work could not be done the same day, requiring me to schedule another appointment. The technician arrived late and took the entire day to complete the job, spending a significant portion of time sitting on my staircase visibly exhausted. The installation was subpar—both the faucet and showerhead were protruding nearly two inches from the wall, and the showerhead was visibly crooked. The faucet and showerhead were protruding so far out they couldn't even be caulked. My wife documented the issues with photos. She sent them to me after the tech left. I immediately called Tom Drexler, informed them of the subpar work, and requested a different technician to correct the poor workmanship. A new technician arrived the following week and made the necessary adjustments. However, within four days of using the shower, a leak developed in the ceiling of the kitchen below, and our toilet began leaking from the base when flushed—suggesting possible plumbing pressure or blockage issues. I contacted the company again and scheduled yet another appointment. Despite being given the same 8 AM to 5 PM time frame, no one showed up, and I had to follow up myself to learn the technician wasn’t coming. Eventually, another technician did visit and claimed the ceiling leak was due to "residual water" and dismissed the toilet issue. When the ceiling stain continued to grow, I called again and requested a supervisor. The supervisor came a week later, concluded that the issue wasn’t related to their work, and left without offering any solutions. Altogether, I had to take four days off work to accommodate this series of visits. I now need to hire another plumber from a different company to resolve the ongoing leak. Based on my experience, I cannot in good conscience recommend Tom Drexler Plumbing. The quality of work, communication, and overall customer service were consistently poor throughout the entire process."

Matt B on September 2025

"I typically do not leave reviews, but my experience with Tom Drexler Plumbing was so poor that I feel compelled to share it in hopes of preventing others from wasting their time and money. I initially contacted the company to address a leaking faucet in a spare bathroom. I was given a vague appointment window of 8 AM to 5 PM and informed that if I didn’t answer a call prior to their arrival, the technician would not show up. When the technician arrived, he spent time criticizing the company’s hiring practices rather than focusing on the repair. He determined that a full tub and shower replacement was needed, quoting over $1,000. The work could not be done the same day, requiring me to schedule another appointment. The technician arrived late and took the entire day to complete the job, spending a significant portion of time sitting on my staircase visibly exhausted. The installation was subpar—both the faucet and showerhead were protruding nearly two inches from the wall, and the showerhead was visibly crooked. The faucet and showerhead were protruding so far out they couldn't even be caulked. My wife documented the issues with photos. She sent them to me after the tech left. I immediately called Tom Drexler, informed them of the subpar work, and requested a different technician to correct the poor workmanship. A new technician arrived the following week and made the necessary adjustments. However, within four days of using the shower, a leak developed in the ceiling of the kitchen below, and our toilet began leaking from the base when flushed—suggesting possible plumbing pressure or blockage issues. I contacted the company again and scheduled yet another appointment. Despite being given the same 8 AM to 5 PM time frame, no one showed up, and I had to follow up myself to learn the technician wasn’t coming. Eventually, another technician did visit and claimed the ceiling leak was due to "residual water" and dismissed the toilet issue. When the ceiling stain continued to grow, I called again and requested a supervisor. The supervisor came a week later, concluded that the issue wasn’t related to their work, and left without offering any solutions. Altogether, I had to take four days off work to accommodate this series of visits. I now need to hire another plumber from a different company to resolve the ongoing leak. Based on my experience, I cannot in good conscience recommend Tom Drexler Plumbing. The quality of work, communication, and overall customer service were consistently poor throughout the entire process."

Matt B on September 2025

Greenwell Plumbing Heating & Air

Greenwell Plumbing Heating & Air

Customers say: Super punctual

264 local quotes requested

31 years of experience

We're your neighborhood plumbing, heating, and air company. We've been providing "Simply Dependable" services in Southern Indiana since 1972. We can take care of all your plumbing and HVAC needs, 24 hours a day, when you need us we will be there!!! We are proud of our service tech's and do monthly training and product awareness with our service team. Tech's are clean, drug-tested, and uniformed, we use shoe covers and floor runners when working on your home. We clean up after every job.

"They got the old sump pump removed and installed the new one. They even disposed of the old stuff which I greatly appreciated. They were wonderful and would call on Greenwell Plumbing again."

Sharon J on May 2025

"They got the old sump pump removed and installed the new one. They even disposed of the old stuff which I greatly appreciated. They were wonderful and would call on Greenwell Plumbing again."

Sharon J on May 2025

Dauenhauer Plumbing

Dauenhauer Plumbing

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

165 local quotes requested

At Dauenhauer Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electric, our skilled, licensed technicians will provide you with efficient, professional home services. Our friendly customer service staff will make every effort to get your problem taken care of fast, even on nights and weekends. From sump pumps and HVAC systems to drain cleanings and generators, our team takes pride in offering the area’s best customer experience. Additional DBA - Anytime Plumbing.

"Job completed"

Lee W on January 2025

"Job completed"

Lee W on January 2025

Reform your Home LLC

7301 Garrison Rd Apt 2

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Reform your Home LLC

7301 Garrison Rd Apt 2

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

7 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

We're a locally owned and operated company with many years of industry experience. We value honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. We offer a variety of Home Improvement services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in handyman/carpentry work and a variety of related service and repair projects. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

"Más que feliz diría: encantada con el magnífico trabajo realizado por Reform your Home. Me encantó mi cocina, muchas gracias por su trabajo."

Yulianis R on December 2024

"Más que feliz diría: encantada con el magnífico trabajo realizado por Reform your Home. Me encantó mi cocina, muchas gracias por su trabajo."

Yulianis R on December 2024

ImproveIt! Home Remodeling, Inc.

Headquarters: 4580 Bridgeway Avenue

ImproveIt! Home Remodeling, Inc.

Headquarters: 4580 Bridgeway Avenue

Customers say: Quality work

1622 local quotes requested

36 years of experience

Since 1989, ImproveIt Home Remodeling, Inc., has specialized in helping homeowners improve the beauty, comfort and energy-efficiency of their homes. Our mission is simple: to provide each and every homeowner complete satisfaction through every step of the remodeling process. We don't just stand behind our work with lifetime product and labor warranties; we strive to deliver total satisfaction and complete peace-of-mind. During our 29 years, we are honored to have been named one of the top 50 remodelers by Remodeling Magazine, and to have won 21 Consumers Choice Awards. BBB accredited with an A+ Rating, we have helped over 50,000 customers. We serve communities across Central Ohio (Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati) and Kentucky (Louisville and Lexington). Choose Improveit Home Remodeling to transform your bathroom or save on high utility bills with our Energy-star rated SolarTech replacement windows.

"They claimed that they were finished and left nails sticking out of the wall. When I tried to call the supervisor I found out that the number was not connected. This is good customer service? I now realize that I paid to much for the sloppy work."

Sherri M on August 2025

"They claimed that they were finished and left nails sticking out of the wall. When I tried to call the supervisor I found out that the number was not connected. This is good customer service? I now realize that I paid to much for the sloppy work."

Sherri M on August 2025

Louisville Mechanical Services

Louisville Mechanical Services

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

11 local quotes requested

Louisville Mechanical Services is a premier HVAC contractor the state of Kentucky. We specialize commercial boiler, chillers, pumps, custom sheetmetal, industrial piping, pumps, plumbing, building automation, HVAC installs and all the above full service. We take pride in our work and we look forward to doing business with you. Give us a call today to schedule a free quote.

"Best price compare to other companies. Easy to work with. Showed up on time and completed the project in one day! Highly recommend this company. Nice to find honesty in a company."

Amy C on December 2023

"Best price compare to other companies. Easy to work with. Showed up on time and completed the project in one day! Highly recommend this company. Nice to find honesty in a company."

Amy C on December 2023

RL Plumbing

6220 Lynnchester DrIve

RL Plumbing

6220 Lynnchester DrIve

Customers say: Quality work

134 local quotes requested

33 years of experience

RL Plumbing is a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity in all aspects of our business. Our dedicated team of professionals have over 30 years of hands on experience, to provide innovative ideas and suggestions tailored to your projects. Our services are customized to your individual needs, paying close attention to the details of each project that we are involved with. Please feel free to contact us today!

"He showed up on time. He committed to what he says. Even though it rained the day of the job, he still came out and completed the job. "

Joseph O on September 2025

"He showed up on time. He committed to what he says. Even though it rained the day of the job, he still came out and completed the job. "

Joseph O on September 2025

Infinity Design & Construction Group INC

11605 Shelbyville Rd. Louisville Ky

No reviews yet

Infinity Design & Construction Group INC

11605 Shelbyville Rd. Louisville Ky

No reviews yet

12 years of experience

In Business Since 2013 Free Estimates with a Trip Charge for Any Service Completed We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumers needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job. How We Got Started We started in this industry in 2013. We describe our business as Well established

Derby City Heating & cooling

Shively

No reviews yet

Derby City Heating & cooling

Shively

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Locally owned The best work and the BEST prices ! Service & installation Over 25 years of Experience

...

Showing 1-10 of 113

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

It is very difficult and dangerous to install your own water heater, so we strongly recommend against tackling this as a DIY project. Not only will you need to wire your water heater, but you’ll also need to connect plumbing to the intake and outlet. Sweating copper pipes and connecting wiring properly are skills most DIYers don’t have, and even if you do feel confident you can do it, working with water and electricity always leaves the potential for electrocution. Hiring a local water heater installer is well worth the investment.

No, you’ll need to drain the tank before changing a water heater element, as the water heater element sticks through the side of the tank and uses a gasket to prevent water from pouring out. However, you don’t always need to drain it completely. If you’re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you’re replacing the lower element, you’ll need to drain the whole thing.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters are anywhere from 8% to 34% more efficient than regular water heaters. Exactly how much energy you’ll save depends on your household’s water usage. When you purchase a tankless water heater, you’ll also likely upgrade to more efficient technology than your current water heater, which can add to energy savings.

The lifespan of your water heater depends on the type of water. For traditional water heaters, you can expect it to last between 8 and 12 years if gas or 10 to 15 years if electric. Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. The total number of years you’ll get out of your water heater depends on the maintenance it receives and how much it’s used.

Yes, this would be an appropriate choice. In order to comply with the National Electric Code’s rules, you'll need to install a circuit breaker that's 125% larger than the intended load. In this case, you'll multiply 30 amps by 1.25 to find the necessary breaker size. Plugging that equation in for your 30-amp water heater will leave you with a 37.6-amp breaker. If your current water heater keeps tripping the breaker, it might be time to talk to a plumber or electrician about upgrading your water heater's setup.

By submitting this question, I acknowledge and agree that Angi may publicly display my name, city, state, and question on the website for professionals and others to see.

The Hebron Estates, KY homeowners’ guide to water heater services

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Installing a recirculating pump on a water heater is an involved job, and one only seasoned DIYers should attempt. Learn how to tackle this job below.