What are the warning signs that a water heater is about to burst or explode?

• <div><p>While a water heater explosion is rare, it is a serious danger. Be aware of these critical warning signs:</p><ul><li><p><b>Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell:</b> This is a major red flag, especially for gas water heaters. It can indicate a gas leak, which could ignite and cause an explosion.</p></li><li><p><b>Leaking Pressure Valve:</b> If the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is leaking, it may not be able to properly regulate internal pressure, creating a risk of bursting.</p></li><li><p><b>Shaking or Rumbling:</b> Loud rumbling or shaking from the tank can be a sign of extreme pressure buildup.</p></li><li><p><b>Excessive Heat:</b> If the exterior of the water heater feels unusually hot to the touch, the unit may be overheating dangerously.</p></li><li><p><b>Rust-Colored Water:</b> This can be a symptom of severe internal corrosion that compromises the tank's integrity.</p></li></ul><p>If you notice any of these signs, especially a gas smell, you must act immediately. Shut off the gas supply to the water heater and call a professional plumber right away to prevent a potential disaster.</p></div>

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Q: Can you install an expansion tank anywhere?

• <div><p>No. Expansion tanks must be installed on the supply side (where heated water flows out) of the boiler. There&rsquo;s also a list of other requirements for most boilers, including being above the pressure relief valves, being on the inner side of any circulator, and more. Your installation manual should have more information on expansion tank installation requirements and what sort of tank the system is made for. </p></div>

Q: How much does it cost to install a water heater?

• <div><p>The average cost to install a new water heater is approximately $1,300, with a typical price range between $880 and $1,800. The final cost depends on several factors, including the type and size of the unit, its location and accessibility, and the amount of labor required. For example, installing a unit in a tight space like a crawl space can increase labor costs. The type of water heater significantly impacts the price: while a conventional gas heater might cost less than $1,000, tankless models can cost around $2,600 to install (and up to $3,500), and solar heaters can cost upwards of $3,700. Other factors that can affect the total price include the fuel type, vent system requirements, permits, and whether any additional plumbing work or repairs from previous water heater damage are needed.</p></div>

Q: Can a water heater be replaced in a day?

• <div><p>Yes, a water heater can be replaced in a day and can take between two and three hours to install from start to finish. Even if you encounter extra tasks that need to be completed, the job can still be completed in one day.</p></div>

Q: Can you still use water if your water heater is leaking?

• <div><p>We recommend you turn off the unit, the power, and the water supply as soon as you notice a leak. Your water heater tank should have a dedicated shut-off valve located on the cold inlet pipes. If the valve is broken or inoperable, use the shut-off valve to your home's main water supply to stop the flow to the entire house.</p><p>Avoid touching valves or pipes directly without confirming if they are hot. Wear gloves and other safety gear to keep from coming into contact with hot levers or components when turning off your leaking water heater.</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 December 2021
Swenson Electric does great work. The electricians are friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended.
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

6 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 a water heater explosion is rare, it is a serious danger. Be aware of these critical warning signs:

Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell: This is a major red flag, especially for gas water heaters. It can indicate a gas leak, which could ignite and cause an explosion.
Leaking Pressure Valve: If the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is leaking, it may not be able to properly regulate internal pressure, creating a risk of bursting.
Shaking or Rumbling: Loud rumbling or shaking from the tank can be a sign of extreme pressure buildup.
Excessive Heat: If the exterior of the water heater feels unusually hot to the touch, the unit may be overheating dangerously.
Rust-Colored Water: This can be a symptom of severe internal corrosion that compromises the tank's integrity.

If you notice any of these signs, especially a gas smell, you must act immediately. Shut off the gas supply to the water heater and call a professional plumber right away to prevent a potential disaster.

No. Expansion tanks must be installed on the supply side (where heated water flows out) of the boiler. There’s also a list of other requirements for most boilers, including being above the pressure relief valves, being on the inner side of any circulator, and more. Your installation manual should have more information on expansion tank installation requirements and what sort of tank the system is made for.

The average cost to install a new water heater is approximately $1,300, with a typical price range between $880 and $1,800. The final cost depends on several factors, including the type and size of the unit, its location and accessibility, and the amount of labor required. For example, installing a unit in a tight space like a crawl space can increase labor costs. The type of water heater significantly impacts the price: while a conventional gas heater might cost less than $1,000, tankless models can cost around $2,600 to install (and up to $3,500), and solar heaters can cost upwards of $3,700. Other factors that can affect the total price include the fuel type, vent system requirements, permits, and whether any additional plumbing work or repairs from previous water heater damage are needed.

Yes, a water heater can be replaced in a day and can take between two and three hours to install from start to finish. Even if you encounter extra tasks that need to be completed, the job can still be completed in one day.

We recommend you turn off the unit, the power, and the water supply as soon as you notice a leak. Your water heater tank should have a dedicated shut-off valve located on the cold inlet pipes. If the valve is broken or inoperable, use the shut-off valve to your home's main water supply to stop the flow to the entire house.

Avoid touching valves or pipes directly without confirming if they are hot. Wear gloves and other safety gear to keep from coming into contact with hot levers or components when turning off your leaking water heater.

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