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 Perham, MN

Q: What is involved in converting a gas water heater to an electric one and how much does it cost?

• <div><p>Yes, you can convert a gas water heater to an electric one, but it is a complex process. You will need to ensure there is adequate power for the new electric unit, as they require more power than gas models. The project also involves safely closing off the gas lines and ventilation, and some cities may require a permit for the conversion. The cost can range from $1,500 to $4,100, depending on the installation scope, plumbing and electrical work, and the water heater model. For an accurate quote, it's best to contact a local professional. Also, be aware that your monthly utility bills may increase after the conversion, as natural gas is typically cheaper than electricity.</p></div>

Q: What size circuit breaker does a water heater need?

• <div><p>Most standard residential water heaters, which are typically around 40 gallons and use 240 volts and between 3,500 and 5,500 watts, require a 30-amp, two-pole circuit breaker. For smaller, point-of-use water heaters using 120 volts and between 1,500 and 3,000 watts, a 30-amp breaker is also often adequate. However, some models may have different needs; units that use more watts than average may require a 40-amp breaker, while smaller units might only need a 20-amp breaker. Newer, tankless, or more energy-efficient models can also require a higher amperage. Having the correct breaker size is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so it's best to consult a licensed electrician to determine the specific needs of your water heater.</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>

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: Is it better to vent a gas water heater out of the wall or roof?

• <div><p>Venting a gas water heater out of the roof is preferable in most cases. Heated exhaust gases naturally rise, so a vertical vent pipe is efficient. If you&rsquo;re trying to vent through a pipe exiting a wall, the angle of the pipe may be more horizontal than vertical, making the venting system less effective. If you go through a wall, you may need to add a fan to ensure a successful expulsion of the gases outdoors.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Perham, MN

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

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Last update on March 16, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
We have used All Phase Drywall for three major updates to our home. Josie has removed popcorn ceiling and add texture, repaired walls and painted, remodel a bathroom from shower – toilet- walls and floor. Refinished kitchen cabinets. Very thorough with prep and cleanup. Shows up until the job is...
All Phase Drywall & Painting
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Reviewed in June 2025
I highly recommend Dustin and his crew. They came out on a Thursday. hydroseeded 18,000 sq feet at an extremely reasonable price. wouldn't you k ow it that afternoon a huge downpour. washed alot of it. I messaged Dustin and told him this would be my luck. he came back with, send me pictures when...
Mid-Central Hydroseeding
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Reviewed in August 2023
Came back and did all the windows again after a surprise rain during the initial cleaning.
Royalty Windows LLC
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Reviewed in May 2022
I definitely recommend Snap if you need some insulation work done. I used them recently and was very pleased with the results. They made sure to work clean and quickly, and now my place is nice and toasty!
Snap Construction Inc
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Reviewed in January 2022
D&T Plowing has served well during the year and they have done work in my residential no complaints I would highly recommend them,
D&T Plowing
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Reviewed in June 2021
Got the job done on time as requested. We're very clean and picked up after they were done.
PureOne Services
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Reviewed in September 2013
The project flawed smoothly. Adjustments were made as needed. mr Barry kept us in the loop on what was a stressful situation dealing with unforeseen and undisclosed water drainage issues. <br />
BARRY EXCAVATING
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Reviewed in June 2013
Jaymey was great to work with and had excellent communication. A good part of this renovation was done while I was out of state and yet I felt very comfortable with what was being done. He was full of great ideas and always had a way to get around the problems we encountered, which were many...
Dornbusch Construction LLC
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Reviewed in December 2012
The Company was actually difficult to find- very few companies or options are out there for this kind of project. The plan was put into place, except that the workers on the ground determined the trenching was not needed, that the design would already direct water to the raised sump pump so...
Groundworks
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Reviewed in April 2011
I got estimates last fall, and although his estimate was similiar to the others, I liked him coming right away to look and give me an estimate. I finally decided to hire him and called him to come, but it was too late in the fall for him to come at that time. He said he would call in the spring...
Tysdal Construction
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Find Water heater pros in Perham

Aquarius Home Services

4.6(

260

)

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

Serving Perham, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 1987

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Paul did excellent work on replacing our pressure tank. Also, redid plumbing pipes by water heater."

Response time12 hrs

Response rate100%

7 neighbors recently requested a quote

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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 Perham, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"He was very nice to talk with and repaired our washing machine. He even helped sweep the water out."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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VanWatermulen Plumbing, Inc.

5.0(

)

Tankless Water Heater - InstallWater Heater - Install or ReplaceWater Heater - Repair or Service

Serving Perham, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

25 years of experience. Troy is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. 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 time4 hrs

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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County Line Service, LLC

5.0(

)

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

Serving Perham, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1985

Free estimates

County Line Services, LLC, is the premier plumbing contractor throughout the Clay County area. We specialize in an array of expertise for all of your home plumbing needs. With over a decades worth of experience in the industry; we are considered masters within our trade. Regardless of the size and scope of your project, we will see it through from beginning to end. We will treat your property as if it is our own, utilizing our phenomenal skill set and exceptional attention to detail. We will mold your renovation or new construction vision from conceptualization into a finished work of art, worthy of royalty. We are licensed, bonded, insured and renowned for our quality craftsmanship. The next time you are in the market for custom home plumbing services, give us a call to schedule an appointment, as we are looking forward to meeting and working with you soon.

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Lakes Area Water Works

4.8(

)

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

Serving Perham, 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

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All Round Plumbing HVAC and General Home Repair

5.0(

)

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

Serving Perham, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over a decade of experience servicing Minnesota residents, we're you're number one stop for all your home needs. Our professionalism, integrity and professionalism has set us apart from the rest. Give us a call today!

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Kelly Plumbing - Home Facebook

1.0(

)

Water Heater - Install or ReplaceWater Heater - Repair or Service

Serving Perham, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1978

Free estimates

Kelly Plumbing is your premiere plumbing company, specializing in repairing or replacing faucets, fixtures, and pipes. We work proficiently and professionally, and will always see the project through to the customer's satisfaction. Call us for a free estimate and to get a plumbing specialist out to your home today.

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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

Yes, you can convert a gas water heater to an electric one, but it is a complex process. You will need to ensure there is adequate power for the new electric unit, as they require more power than gas models. The project also involves safely closing off the gas lines and ventilation, and some cities may require a permit for the conversion. The cost can range from $1,500 to $4,100, depending on the installation scope, plumbing and electrical work, and the water heater model. For an accurate quote, it's best to contact a local professional. Also, be aware that your monthly utility bills may increase after the conversion, as natural gas is typically cheaper than electricity.

Most standard residential water heaters, which are typically around 40 gallons and use 240 volts and between 3,500 and 5,500 watts, require a 30-amp, two-pole circuit breaker. For smaller, point-of-use water heaters using 120 volts and between 1,500 and 3,000 watts, a 30-amp breaker is also often adequate. However, some models may have different needs; units that use more watts than average may require a 40-amp breaker, while smaller units might only need a 20-amp breaker. Newer, tankless, or more energy-efficient models can also require a higher amperage. Having the correct breaker size is crucial for safe and efficient operation, so it's best to consult a licensed electrician to determine the specific needs of your water heater.

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.

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.

Venting a gas water heater out of the roof is preferable in most cases. Heated exhaust gases naturally rise, so a vertical vent pipe is efficient. If you’re trying to vent through a pipe exiting a wall, the angle of the pipe may be more horizontal than vertical, making the venting system less effective. If you go through a wall, you may need to add a fan to ensure a successful expulsion of the gases outdoors.

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