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 Walker, MN

Q: Are hot water heater expansion tanks necessary or required by code?

• <div><p>While not all homes require a hot water heater expansion tank, they are necessary in most newer homes and are often mandated by local building codes. Codes typically require an expansion tank if your plumbing system is a 'closed-loop' system, which often includes a backflow preventer or pressure regulator on the main water line. Some municipalities have specific requirements. Installing an expansion tank on a closed system is crucial, as it prevents excess pressure that can damage your water heater and other appliances, potentially shortening their lifespan. However, tankless water heaters do not require an expansion tank.</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: Do you have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater?

• <div><p>You don&rsquo;t have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater. You may be able to go six to 12 years or more before needing to replace your expansion tank. At <b>$150 to $450</b>, hot water heater expansion tanks are usually much more affordable than the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-water-heater-installation-cost.htm">cost of hot water tanks</a> themselves, which average about $1,190.</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>

Q: Is a tankless water heater better than a storage tank water heater?

• <div><p>Tankless water heaters are more expensive than those with a storage tank, but they come with some impressive benefits that most homeowners find worth the higher investment. Most importantly, they provide unlimited hot water, so you&rsquo;ll never run out like you would with a storage tank. Tankless heaters are also more efficient, so comparing gallon-for-gallon, you&rsquo;ll spend less on hot water with a tankless heater. Tankless water heaters are also smaller, require less maintenance, and tend to last longer than storage tank water heaters.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Walker, MN

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Walker, 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.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Heater Service companies in Walker, 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.

Last update on July 11, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
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...
Steamboat Plumbing
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Reviewed in April 2025
Excellent responsiveness, service and follow up. Phil and Amy are great! Will use for future work.
Lake Shore Heating and Cooling, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
I hired Jon for a bathroom remodel. He was over and gave me an estimate very quickly. He also helped me hire a carpenter to lay new flooring throughout the entire home. He did an amazing job and communication was excellent! Everything was done in a timely manner and he accomodated my every...
Lakes Area Water Works
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Reviewed in November 2022
I have had Naylor's do work for me in the past and always thought they were alright but this last experience with them was completely unreal. I got in touch with them on Tuesday to come out due to my furnace not working in my guest house. They said that they would have someone out here before...
NAYLOR HEATING & REFRIGERATION
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Reviewed in June 2022
It was excellent. They were able to schedule the job according to the weather, they came when they were able to because of the weather, and barely took a break. I was amazed that the cleanup was good and only two of them could get the job done.
Briard's Roofing LLC
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Reviewed in March 2022
From the sales rep, Scott, to the scheduler, Angela, and then Onto the brilliant, tenacious Jake, the installerâ ¦.. this has been a very positive experience, Jake worked out the plumbing nightmare in an old house, complicated by remodeling and too many fingers in the pieâ ¦. He was...
Range Water Conditioning
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Reviewed in July 2021
Nate was very responsive at a busy time and arranged the job in a few days. The materials and breaker panel were first rate. Considering the high raw material costs right now , the cost was very competitive. If they keep that up, I will be bringing them back for some additional work in a few...
Swenson Electric
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Reviewed in May 2021
they are extremely professional and they stay focused on the job. They charged by the hour and the job came in lower than the bid! They climb the trees so you don't need to accommodate a high-lift truck or other destructive machines on your property. They do an excellent job of clean-up and are...
Wenzels Tree Service
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Reviewed in April 2021
Very professional and efficient flooring installation company . Joshua and his crew provided a great service.
JJ&B Construction Company
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Reviewed in September 2018
Entered my request for help. They promptly responded. After I explained my water flow problem he offered a possible way to figure out where my problem is rather than just coming over & charging me a minimum fee. Very helpful! I will call him back if I find his suggestion gives me a better idea...
Ace Kolles Plumbing LLC - Home Facebook
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Find Water heater pros in Walker

Aquarius Home Services

4.6(

260

)

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

Serving Walker, 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 time10 hrs

4 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by91%of homeowners

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Rasmussen Plumbing, Inc.

5.0(

)

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - RepairWater Heater - Install or Replace+1 more

Serving Walker, MN and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"Very orientated to detail, knowledgeable and prompt in service. Installed water heater, replaced shower, sink and toilet. Did a great job."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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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 Walker, 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

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For BusinessTankless Water Heater - Repair+3 more

Serving Walker, 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

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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 Walker, 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 Walker, 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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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

While not all homes require a hot water heater expansion tank, they are necessary in most newer homes and are often mandated by local building codes. Codes typically require an expansion tank if your plumbing system is a 'closed-loop' system, which often includes a backflow preventer or pressure regulator on the main water line. Some municipalities have specific requirements. Installing an expansion tank on a closed system is crucial, as it prevents excess pressure that can damage your water heater and other appliances, potentially shortening their lifespan. However, tankless water heaters do not require an expansion tank.

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.

You don’t have to replace expansion tanks at the same time as your hot water heater. You may be able to go six to 12 years or more before needing to replace your expansion tank. At $150 to $450, hot water heater expansion tanks are usually much more affordable than the cost of hot water tanks themselves, which average about $1,190.

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.

Tankless water heaters are more expensive than those with a storage tank, but they come with some impressive benefits that most homeowners find worth the higher investment. Most importantly, they provide unlimited hot water, so you’ll never run out like you would with a storage tank. Tankless heaters are also more efficient, so comparing gallon-for-gallon, you’ll spend less on hot water with a tankless heater. Tankless water heaters are also smaller, require less maintenance, and tend to last longer than storage tank water heaters.

The Walker, MN homeowners’ guide to water heater services

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

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How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
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Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.
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May 3, 2026May 3, 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.