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>

Should I consider an electric water heater?

• <div><p>Choosing between an <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/gas-vs-electric-water-heaters.htm">electric water heater vs. a gas water heater</a> comes down to personal preference. Overall, electric heaters are more energy efficient than their gas competitors. They’re also quieter to operate, take up less room, and don’t come with a risk of gas leaks. </p><p>The downside is that electric water heaters cost more to operate than gas. They might also struggle to heat water fast enough for households that use large amounts of hot water. Lastly, a power outage could cause your electric water heater to stop working, whereas gas water heaters may still function.</p></div>

Best water heater pros near Jerome, MI

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

• <div><p>No, you&rsquo;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&rsquo;t always need to drain it completely. If you&rsquo;re only replacing the upper heating element, you can drain the tank until the water line is below the element. If you&rsquo;re replacing the lower element, you&rsquo;ll need to drain the whole thing. </p></div>

Q: Are water heater thermocouples universal?

• <div><p>A thermocouple is a pretty simple device. It simply tells the control valve if heat is present. Most water heaters can use a universal thermocouple, provided it's the correct length. Getting one that's long enough for your appliance is crucial for success. However, some water heater models require model-specific thermocouples, which is why it's essential to take your existing one to the store to find the right match.</p></div>

Q: What is the most efficient type of hot water heater?

• <div><p>Heat pump water heaters, also known as hybrid water heaters, are the most efficient types of water heaters&mdash;both in terms of carbon emission and energy efficiency. This type of water heater utilizes as little as half of the energy of a traditional water heater while releasing no direct emissions. Tankless water heaters are also extremely efficient, although slightly less so than hybrid heaters.</p></div>

Q: What do I need to replace after water damage?

• <div><p>Any item that can hold on to moisture and encourage mold growth should be discarded and replaced following water damage. Upholstered items, such as armchairs and couches, and soft items, such as mattresses, usually must be thrown away once they've taken on a lot of water. Soft furniture is difficult to dry out, creating an inviting environment for mold.</p><p>You may also need to replace hardwood furniture following water damage if you're unable to fully dry it out. If you have appliances and electronics that have been fully submerged in water, particularly sewage, you'll need to replace those, too.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water heater service project in Jerome, MI?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Jerome, MI

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Jerome, MI 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 Jerome, MI 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 July 24, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Leo and his crew did an Awsome job removing my water damaged sub floor and reinstalling a new sub floor and LVP floor . They were always on time and did a very professional job. I would recommend them to anyone wanting flooring done.
LT Tile LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2025
I recently had multiple jobs done by StayDry, including the installation Zoeller Model M63 sump pump, with 20 feet of buried discharge, and spray foam around the rim joist. I was impressed with their prompt and thorough response to my concerns after the initial installation. The StayDry team...
Stay Dry Basement Waterproofing, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2024
A Plus Remediation and Restoration did an excellent job addressing the water damage in our home. Their work was of the highest quality, and their professionalism was outstanding. I highly recommend A Plus Remediation and Restoration for anyone in need of top-tier remediation and restoration...
A Plus Remediation and Restoration
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2024
We spoke with four different companies regarding water in our basement. Three recommended full interior perimeter drain systems. Vince from Rangel's diagnosed a foundation crack, and explained how it could be fixed. Rangel's repaired the crack and installed an egress window that we asked...
Rangel's Waterproofing & Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2023
Shout out to Joe and James, the team from FSM, who came out to our house today to level out two sidewalks that had sunk towards the house. They did a great job, raising both sidewalks so that the water now drains away from the house. Very happy with the outcome.
Groundworks
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2023
Courteous, professional and speedy service. I highly recommend 1st Choice Water Solutions!
1st Choice Water Solutions LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2021
Fred was a true professional. I highly recommend this company. They did excellent work and went above and beyond. I’d give them 10 Stars if I could! We love our new water system!
Fred Latz Water Conditioning
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2021
We had an emergency with one of sprinklers, it would not shut off and was spraying water everywhere. We had to shut off the water to the entire house. I contacted Mario and he responded immediately. He already had the parts needed for the repair and had everything fixed within 3 hours of our...
Mario Landscaping
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2020
This is a great company to worked with to solve your water issues. They actually show up when they say they well be there and if something happens unexpectedly they come right out!
Coastal Restoration, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2020
Great. Super professional. Water purifier is awesome — especially with babies using formula. Salt delivery is on point. Great company to work with in many aspects.
Tri County Water
Request a quote

Top-Rated Water heater pros in Jerome - Updated Nov 2026

The Grate Haus

4.5(

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Jerome, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"We called them on Monday morning and they worked us in to get it done the same day. They installed the hot water heater in a timely manner, and did a great job. Very professional and helpful! Would definitely use again."

Recommended by90%of homeowners

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Jerome, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The team did a great/wonderful job installing my new water heater!"

Recommended by69%of homeowners

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Jerome, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"They are replacing my water heater."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Solar Water Heater System - InstallTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+6 more

Serving Jerome, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"We pay yearly but we have this is included with our rental property. They are pretty good on most things. We had a hot water heater replaced and they did an excellent job on that. They are very quick on their response. They dont come out here. It is all done on the internet. I just like the idea that one time service charge is so much better than trying to hiring someone to come in. It is more about convenience. It pays for itself."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Request Quote

Brian Marshall Plumbing, LLC

5.0(

)

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For BusinessTankless Water Heater - Repair+5 more

Serving Jerome, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At Brian Marshall Plumbing, we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all the work we perform. We are experts and will always keep you educated about the work process. We look forward to earning your business.

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Water Heaters FAQs, answered by experts

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.

A thermocouple is a pretty simple device. It simply tells the control valve if heat is present. Most water heaters can use a universal thermocouple, provided it's the correct length. Getting one that's long enough for your appliance is crucial for success. However, some water heater models require model-specific thermocouples, which is why it's essential to take your existing one to the store to find the right match.

Heat pump water heaters, also known as hybrid water heaters, are the most efficient types of water heaters—both in terms of carbon emission and energy efficiency. This type of water heater utilizes as little as half of the energy of a traditional water heater while releasing no direct emissions. Tankless water heaters are also extremely efficient, although slightly less so than hybrid heaters.

Any item that can hold on to moisture and encourage mold growth should be discarded and replaced following water damage. Upholstered items, such as armchairs and couches, and soft items, such as mattresses, usually must be thrown away once they've taken on a lot of water. Soft furniture is difficult to dry out, creating an inviting environment for mold.

You may also need to replace hardwood furniture following water damage if you're unable to fully dry it out. If you have appliances and electronics that have been fully submerged in water, particularly sewage, you'll need to replace those, too.

Choosing between an electric water heater vs. a gas water heater comes down to personal preference. Overall, electric heaters are more energy efficient than their gas competitors. They’re also quieter to operate, take up less room, and don’t come with a risk of gas leaks.

The downside is that electric water heaters cost more to operate than gas. They might also struggle to heat water fast enough for households that use large amounts of hot water. Lastly, a power outage could cause your electric water heater to stop working, whereas gas water heaters may still function.

The Jerome, MI 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

Heather Ayer
•
Oct 16, 2026Oct 16, 2026
How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
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.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Heat Pump Water Heater? [2026 Data]
Learn all the factors that influence the cost to install a heat pump water heater at your home.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
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.
Dan Simms
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
How to Hire a Water Heater Installation Pro
Done with cold showers and dish washing? Hire a water heater installation pro near you to get back to comfort and safety quickly.
Kyle Schurman
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Who Can Install a Water Heater In 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.
C.E. Larusso
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
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.