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Steamboat Plumbing
5.0(
4
)

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Steamboat Plumbing's owner Luke Ewert exceeded my expectations! He was incredibly helpful, friendly, and professional, taking extra time to ensure I understood my new water softener's operation, including navigating cycles and settings. He also walked me through shutting down my cabin's plumbing system for the fall, allowing me to video record the process. Luke's clear explanations, patience, and personal touch made the experience seamless. His dedication to customers is impressive. I appreciated the opportunity to chat with him about his background and family, which added a nice touch to the service. I highly recommend Steamboat Plumbing and Luke Ewert for exceptional service, expertise, and customer care. I will definitely use Steamboat Plumbing again in the future!"
Response time1 day
Recommended by75%of homeowners
Lakes Area Water Works
4.8(
2
)

Serving Backus, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Response time1 day
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Water Heaters questions, 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.

Several signs indicate your water heater may be failing or in need of replacement. Key indicators include:

  • Age: A water heater older than ten years is approaching the end of its typical lifespan.

  • Water Quality: If you notice rusty or discolored water from your hot water faucets, or a foul odor similar to rotten eggs or sulfur, it can signal internal corrosion.

  • Unusual Noises: Banging, rumbling, or popping sounds from the tank often mean sediment has built up, causing the unit to overheat.

  • Leaks: Any water pooling around the base of the tank or visible leaks are clear signs of failure.

  • Performance Issues: A decline in performance, such as water not getting hot enough, taking longer to heat up, low water pressure, or decreased efficiency, suggests the unit is struggling.

  • Visible Damage: Obvious rust and corrosion on the exterior of the tank can indicate a more serious internal problem.

While these signs often point to replacement, some issues may be fixable. It's best to consult a professional plumber to diagnose the problem before investing in a new unit.

It takes between one and three hours to replace a hot water heater element, depending on whether you hire a pro or do the work yourself. For example, a professional plumber with all the necessary tools and experience can often finish the job in one to two hours, whereas DIY will take two to three hours because it'll involve more preparation and troubleshooting.

Storage, tankless, heat pumps, and solar water heaters each suit specific space constraints, usage needs, and efficiency preferences.

While possible, professional assistance is recommended to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoidance of avoidable risks.

The Backus, MN homeowners’ guide to water heater services

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