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>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Munising, MI

Q: What’s wrong with high water pressure?

• <div><p>Excessive pressure (above 80 psi) puts too much stress on plumbing pipes, joints, and fixtures. This can lead to leaks and burst pipes. Plus, it shortens the lifespan of appliances, can waste water, and can raise your utility bills. High water pressure might feel like a gift, but it&rsquo;s actually a silent threat to plumbing. </p></div>

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 tankless water heaters better than traditional water heaters?

• <div><p>There are <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-are-pros-and-cons-tankless-water-heaters.htm">pros and cons to tankless water heaters</a>. 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. </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: Can you ask a pro what’s the best breaker size for your water heater?

• <div><p>If you are having trouble determining the right breaker size for your water heater, it is a great idea to contact an electrician near you to help. They can help you determine the best option for your home and install the circuit breaker for you, ensuring that you have all the proper permits and that your circuit breaker won&rsquo;t overload, which could lead to fire and other damage.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

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

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Munising, MI

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Munising, 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 Munising, 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 September 08, 2026

Reviewed in September 2026
After paying over $80,000 in labor only. I still never got trim on windows baseboard and steel roofing compleated. Unfortunately I pain in full last year and Nico has not completed the work or returned phone calls.
Borealis Builders, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2026
Very timely, Very good workmanship,would Hire him to do more jobs,many of my friends praised the job also
Eric Gustafson
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2026
He’s a very ambitious and professional young man and made sure that everything was done right. We plan to use him for some tree removal in the spring.
Choice U.P Landscaping
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2023
EV staff were punctual and very professional. They explained the process and detailed the cost estimate to include the entire job. There were no surprises or hidden expenses..
Enviro-FOAM
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
Excellent work at s reasonable price. He arrived on time and did not mind when I continually added jobs to the original plan. He patched drywall and made my kitchen, basement, front porch all look like brand new. I would hire him again.
Red White & Blue Paint Crew
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2021
Very prompt and finished job promptly. Calls you back right away. Shows up as he says he will
Lakefront Lawn and Landscaping
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2020
I had Merrifield Exteriors install new basement windows in our home. They were great to work with and we are very pleased. I recommend them highly.
Merrifield Exteriors, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2020
i was in charge of my Aunts Estate I came from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to perform these duties. Bay Home Remodeling made the job easy with there expertise and service. I would recommend them for home remodeling.
Bay Home Remodeling, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2019
I would not have been able to stay in Florida if he had not made my steps into my trailer so I could get in easily. He made them exactly like I wanted. I can go up and down easily and safely and I would recommend him to anyone.
Acosta Flooring
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2017
Employees are courteous and work hard to complete all requested work.
Hummingbird Landscape and Design, LLC
Request a quote

Find Water heater pros in Munising

Swick Heating Cooling Plumbing & Electrical

4.0(

)

Water Heater - Install or ReplaceTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For Business+3 more

Serving Munising, MI and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 1977

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Swick provides home services to Marquette, Negaunee, Ishpeming, Munising and the greater area of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our services include Heating & Cooling, Electric, Plumbing, Electric Stove & Fireplace and related home services. Quality doesn't cost, it pays!

68 neighbors recently requested a quote

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

Serving Munising, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"He was able to quickly diagnose that the water leak from the water heater was a result of a ruptured tank, resulting in the need to replace the entire water heater."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

Request Quote

American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

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

Serving Munising, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"Service guy came as scheduled. Sent his "service" requirements to home base Home base calls back and lists, a very long list of what needs to be done and a very long list of what is not covered and what each item costs. The overall cost was outrageous and they weren't willing to give it to me in writing. Everything I had to pay for was overpriced, of course! They told me my other option would be to purchase my own water heater and they would reimburse me for what there water heater would cost, but no reimbursement for Labor, building permit, or any upgrades required by the local building department. The requirements of the building department were minimal. I went to Home Depot and had them do the installation and saved many hundreds of dollars. Lesson learned, have AHS do simpler repairs that don't require municipal building department approval. Have AHS pay for the equipment, and purchase installation from a trusted local installer."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Request Quote

Tyriver Plumbing & Heating

5.0(

)

Tankless Water Heater - RepairTankless Water Heater - Repair - For BusinessWater Heater - Install or Replace+2 more

Serving Munising, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Tyriver Plumbing & Heating comes with over ten years experience. Customer service, professionalism, and quality of work are our number one priorities. Reach out to Tyriver today for your plumbing and mechanical needs, we can't wait to get your job done right!

Response time10 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

Excessive pressure (above 80 psi) puts too much stress on plumbing pipes, joints, and fixtures. This can lead to leaks and burst pipes. Plus, it shortens the lifespan of appliances, can waste water, and can raise your utility bills. High water pressure might feel like a gift, but it’s actually a silent threat to plumbing.

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.

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.

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.

If you are having trouble determining the right breaker size for your water heater, it is a great idea to contact an electrician near you to help. They can help you determine the best option for your home and install the circuit breaker for you, ensuring that you have all the proper permits and that your circuit breaker won’t overload, which could lead to fire and other damage.

The Munising, 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
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 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.
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.
Haley Nothstein
•
Sep 18, 2026Sep 18, 2026
How Much Does a Water Heater Expansion Tank Cost? [2026 Data]
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.
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.