Does a water softener ruin a water heater?

• <div><p>The chemicals in a water softener can wear down the anode rod in the heater and shorten its life span. However, for most people, the benefits of the softener outweigh this potential drawback.</p><p>Have a plumber inspect the anode rod annually for damage, as replacing the anode rod is far less expensive than replacing the entire water heater. </p></div>

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 Cape Girardeau, MO

Q: How long do gas water heaters last?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-long-does-gas-water-heater-last.htm">Gas water heaters last</a> between eight and 12 years on average. You can help them reach their maximum lifespan with regular cleanings, maintenance, and professional checkups, though don&rsquo;t hesitate to swing for a full replacement if the total cost of repairs is greater than that of purchasing and installing a new unit. </p></div>

Q: What happens if you install a water heater without a permit?

• <div><p>Installing a water heater without a permit can result in high fines&mdash;as much as hundreds of dollars per day, in some areas. It can also void your homeowners' insurance and cause problems when selling your home because it violates local building codes and safety regulations.</p></div>

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

• <div><p>The average<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-water-heater-installation-cost.htm"> cost to replace a water heater</a> is <b>$1,325</b>. How much your replacement heater costs depends on the type, size, and complexity of installation. Gas and electric heaters may cost a similar amount out of pocket, but one type may cost more to operate than the other, depending on the cost of utilities in your area. </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>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Cape Girardeau, MO

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Cape Girardeau, MO 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 Cape Girardeau, MO 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 December 09, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
John Hawkins was extremely professional, wanted to hear (in my own words) what the issue was and where he could find the electrical panel. Since the overhead lighting was out, he was prepared with a headlamp and a flashlight. Actually, he brought all the tools needed to complete any work I may...
Handyman of SEMO
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Reviewed in August 2024
Built a sidewalk to redirect water.
Raybrooke Construction and Properties
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Reviewed in February 2021
I hired Joe to prepare my house for sale. He did covering up cracks in walls, touch up of badly infiltrated water damaged areas and paint matching with amazing ease and effectiveness. He even helped replace a garage side entrance door, a WC and some badly corroded down pipes in my gutters. Joe...
Butayi Painting and Decorating
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Reviewed in May 2020
They did not return my intial after hours emergency phone call. I had to call back. The first technician did not even acknowledge the display panel with the code indicating the problem. I asked about it and he said that wasn't the problem. He had to return 2 more times that week. By Friday I had...
Hacker Plumbing & Heating
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Reviewed in April 2014
Our backyard was graded wrong so Stork Landscaping dug us out and the retaining walls re-shifted the way the water flows, so it would flow around the house and not in the house, dug out the patio and pour new concrete. They didn’t have to do this but they did – we have part of the back end of...
Stork Landscaping LLC
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Reviewed in July 2013
We had contacted another company that had missed three appointments to examine system and quote repair cost....We contacted Gurley Hand C and they set a date 48 hrs later. Showed up provided a quote later the same day....started work as promised 3 days later and finished work in three days after...
Gurley And Son Heating & AC
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Reviewed in November 2011
The day before Easter my husband was trying to loosen the water filter that needed to be changed. It's attached directly to the major waterline that enters our house. In doing so, the PVC pipe broke resulting in a scene right out of a Chevy Chase movie. Water was gushing and spraying everywhere...
Coomers Plumbing Heating & AC
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Reviewed in November 2011
From initial contact through completion of job they were responsive and professional. Returned calls, provided timely professional estimate, available for discussion of estimate, provided samples, promised and lived up to installation date, courteous and professional crew, minimal property...
Melvin Mills Roofing, LLC
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Find Water heater pros in Cape Girardeau

Pobst Hardware & Farm Supply

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Pobst Hardware & Farm Supply

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

11 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!

"I was so impressed not only with his knowledge but also his professionalism. He was incredibly cost efficient and was able to work me in so fast to get a much needed appointment completed. I will definitely be referring all of my friends and family."

Bretton S on December 2024

"I was so impressed not only with his knowledge but also his professionalism. He was incredibly cost efficient and was able to work me in so fast to get a much needed appointment completed. I will definitely be referring all of my friends and family."

Bretton S on December 2024

Handy Steve

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Handy Steve

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

60 local quotes requested

At Handy Steve, we understand that your home is your sanctuary. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing top-notch handyman services to keep it running smoothly. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to handle a wide range of home maintenance and repair tasks, ensuring that every job is done right the first time.

"Finished product is very nice. Not one difficulty with Mr. Dodson. Would definitely recommend him for deck building. Cape Girardeau seems to delight in building codes to make things difficult. Mr. Dodson navigated through the system despite the city doing its best to frustrate the builder."

Gordon H on June 2025

"Finished product is very nice. Not one difficulty with Mr. Dodson. Would definitely recommend him for deck building. Cape Girardeau seems to delight in building codes to make things difficult. Mr. Dodson navigated through the system despite the city doing its best to frustrate the builder."

Gordon H on June 2025

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Customers say: Super punctual

27367 local quotes requested

9 years of experience

NEW! Appliance Consultation – Just $35 Get expert advice before you spend on repairs or replacements. A Neli technician will evaluate your issue and help you decide if your appliance can be fixed—or if it’s time for a new one. Virtual Appliance Diagnosis and Repair - Just $45 Service Description: Diagnose or repair your appliance virtually—no need for anyone to enter your home. Neli’s certified technicians guide you step-by-step via secure video chat. How It Works: Book online at nelihome.com or call 833-876-0900 Connect with a tech through our video platform Diagnose or fix the issue in real time Get expert advice and confidence in your next steps What’s Included: Real-time video guidance from a certified technician Diagnosis of the issue OR full repair (when possible) Step-by-step guidance using your smartphone or tablet Safe, contact-free service - no one in your home Flexible scheduling—appointments available daily Perfect For: Appliance fixes HVAC troubleshooting DIY-savvy homeowners Saving time and money on service calls

"Super helpful"

Michele H on November 2025

"Super helpful"

Michele H on November 2025

Ace Construction, Heating & Cooling

No reviews yet

Ace Construction, Heating & Cooling

No reviews yet

38 years of experience

Ace Construction, Heating & Cooling offers quality construction services for the Southeast Missouri Area. We are proud to work with each of our clients to bring skilled craftsmen and technicians to the building site based on the building plans, project requirements, as well as your heating and cooling needs. Whether you’re looking to remodel or repair, Ace Construction, Heating & Cooling can assist you with your needs

Werner Repair Services LLC.

No reviews yet

Werner Repair Services LLC.

No reviews yet

4 years of experience

Hello I am owner of Werner Repair Services and my business offers handyman services, from appliance repair to drywall repair. Most household maintenance I am the guy for you! I have over 8 years of appliance repair and HVAC experience along with plumbing and maintenance experience.

Krell Distributing Co Inc

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Krell Distributing Co Inc

No reviews yet

53 years of experience

Additional DBA - Krell Industries. Family owned & operated. Nationwide service.

Solar Wolf Energy

2.00(

)

Solar Wolf Energy

2.00(

)

10 years of experience

Solar Wolf is a full service solar company with a great reputation and an old world belief to our customers. To under-promise and over-deliver, period. We have 18 years experience in construction, remodeling, roofing, solar water heaters, solar pv systems, battery back-up systems and much more. See what Solar Wolf Energy can do for you!

Residential plumbing specialist New construction, remodel's, service repairs and replacements.

The Hybrid Handyman

No reviews yet

The Hybrid Handyman

No reviews yet

14 years of experience

The Hybrid Handyman is a unique business that offers both technology and home improvement services. Our services offer you a one-call solution for virtually any service you may need for your home.

Showing 1-10 of 29

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

Gas water heaters last between eight and 12 years on average. You can help them reach their maximum lifespan with regular cleanings, maintenance, and professional checkups, though don’t hesitate to swing for a full replacement if the total cost of repairs is greater than that of purchasing and installing a new unit.

Installing a water heater without a permit can result in high fines—as much as hundreds of dollars per day, in some areas. It can also void your homeowners' insurance and cause problems when selling your home because it violates local building codes and safety regulations.

The chemicals in a water softener can wear down the anode rod in the heater and shorten its life span. However, for most people, the benefits of the softener outweigh this potential drawback.

Have a plumber inspect the anode rod annually for damage, as replacing the anode rod is far less expensive than replacing the entire water heater.

The average cost to replace a water heater is $1,325. How much your replacement heater costs depends on the type, size, and complexity of installation. Gas and electric heaters may cost a similar amount out of pocket, but one type may cost more to operate than the other, depending on the cost of utilities in your area.

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.

The Cape Girardeau, MO 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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