What are the signs that a water heater is failing or needs to be replaced?

• <div><p>Several signs indicate your water heater may be failing or in need of replacement. Key indicators include:</p><ul><li><p><b>Age:</b> A water heater older than ten years is approaching the end of its typical lifespan.</p></li><li><p><b>Water Quality:</b> 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.</p></li><li><p><b>Unusual Noises:</b> Banging, rumbling, or popping sounds from the tank often mean sediment has built up, causing the unit to overheat.</p></li><li><p><b>Leaks:</b> Any water pooling around the base of the tank or visible leaks are clear signs of failure.</p></li><li><p><b>Performance Issues:</b> 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.</p></li><li><p><b>Visible Damage:</b> Obvious rust and corrosion on the exterior of the tank can indicate a more serious internal problem.</p></li></ul><p>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.</p></div>

What’s the best place in my house for a hybrid water heater?

• <div><p>Basements, specifically those without any air conditioning, are the best location for a hybrid water heater. These rooms are less likely to experience extreme temperature fluctuations, which can affect your hybrid water heater’s efficiency and performance. Basements often have more than enough space for their tanks and proper air circulation. Hybrid water heaters can also be a bit noisy, but putting them in your basement will keep the noise away from your main living areas.</p></div>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Aurora, NC

Q: How long does it take to install a new water heater?

• <div><p>Professional installs conclude in mere hours, with complexity differences possibly prolonging efforts slightly. Site condition often dictates the exact duration.</p></div>

Q: Do water heater installation laws change in different states?

• <div><p>Every city and state will have its own set of installation codes and laws. Some won&rsquo;t require you to obtain a permit before replacing your water heater, though we recommend you do, regardless of the local codes. On the other hand, some cities and states might require secondary permits for plumbing and electrical work related to the installation. Check with a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/water-heater-installation/">local water heater installation company</a> and local building codes to confirm which permits are required and what the specific laws are.</p></div>

Q: How long does a tankless water heater last?

• <div><p>A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Aurora, NC

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Aurora, NC 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 Aurora, NC 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 November 12, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
Lou was great ! He contacted me in advanced; explained what needed to be done and identified several things I could do myself (save me money) before he arrived: - clean pool, remove/brush any dirt or algae off sides or bottom - drain water level down below skimmers/pool jets/vacuum ports When...
Rise & Shine Pools
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Reviewed in October 2025
It was carefully thought out and had to be completely taken down to the original pipes and plumbing in a bathroom 65 years old. The bathroom did not meet requirements or even the parts required now, so everything had to be measured and fitted with updated materials. Added to that, the house was...
Innovation Renovation LLC
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Reviewed in August 2025
Save yourself the time and trouble of dangerous DIY gutter jobs. After Clear Flow Gutter Services removed the old useless gutter covers, they cleaned and cleared my badly clogged gutters and downspouts and installed the new micro-mesh stainless steel gutter guards . The water is now flowing...
Clear Flow Gutter Services
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Reviewed in November 2023
Two plumbers came very quickly. So response time was above average. Price was really unexpected two faucet installs, including drain, and two water line hookups. Took 1.75 hours or less. Costed $907.38. Which is $519 per hour. Further, as you can see from the breakdown, no real explanation of...
Colonial Capital Plumbing
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Reviewed in February 2022
A complete intentional rip off of an African American female senior citizen. Paid $1,200 and Plumber tore up things to get more money. For example, plumber was supposed to fix the shower. Now the toilet backs up in the bathtub.Told me shower needed A new showerhead. He did not test to see if...
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
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Reviewed in October 2021
I needed roof repair, water damage repair, and reinstallation of a leaking skylight. I got a good assessment (with photos) and a fair estimate. The work was done efficiently in a timely manner. The workers were very professional and did a great cleanup. I would recommend this company to...
Steven Drywall & Home Repair
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Reviewed in July 2020
I had a French Drain installed because when it rained, I had pooling all over my yard and the water runs toward the house, instead of away. I used Home Advisor and Angies List. I called several landscaping businesses and TBH was the only company to show up for an estimate. The other companies...
TBH Forestry Mulching & Landscaping
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Reviewed in January 2020
I hired Oldhams Custom Remodeling for my summer home in North Carolina that ended up getting damaged during hurricane Florence. I needed more than half my home completely redone to the amount of water damage inside the home. The drywall was all removed and disposed properly. Did an amazing job...
Oldhams Custom Remodeling - Home Facebook
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Reviewed in September 2019
James from West was quick to respond, someone was at my house for a quote after 5:00pm on a Friday and a new hot water heater was in place on Saturday afternoon! The techs that were sent were professional and we were more than happy with the work. We felt the price was fair and in line with...
West Plumbing, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2019
Tony Lewis did a nice job of installing a ceiling fan/light kit in a room with a very high ceiling. It looks great and works perfectly. He also connected my crawl space dehumidifier to a permanent drain so I don’t have to keep emptying the water collection bucket. Great job!
Lewis Contract Services
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Find Water heater pros in Aurora

NuBlue Electric, Plumbing & Air

5.0(

)

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Our team of expert technicians specialize in residential hvac repairs and installations such as ac units, furnaces, indoor air quality products, vent/duct cleaning, and much more. We are your HVAC technicians of choice. NuBlue Electric Plumbing & Air is Redefining Service Excellence in the Lake Norman region! \n \nHave an Electrical OR Plumbing OR Air issue? Our NuBlue team can help with those! A one-stop-shop, the NuBlue team is able to take care of all Electric, Plumbing, and Air needs. \n \nVisit our website for coupons and specials!

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Tim did a great job with the replacement of our water heater. Even though it was the day after Thanksgiving he moved some of his other appointments around to come to our home that afternoon. Tim and his assistant were careful to put on shoe covers in the house and to observe COVID 19 precautions. The job required more complicated plumbing since we have a desuperheater loop from our geothermal heat pump that connects to the water heater; the additional charge for this work was minimal. Tim was here until after 5:00 that evening, with the result that we had hot water over the weekend."

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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Coastal Carolina Plumbing Of Washington

4.8(

)

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 1964

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

We are a plumbing company that takes great pride in the work we provide. We look for the best way to fix every customer's need with our full service plumbing company. We are licensed, bonded and fully insured.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"He was able to quickly diagnose that the water leak from the water heater was a result of a ruptured tank, resulting in the need to replace the entire water heater."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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Absolute HVAC & Plumbing Inc.

4.2(

)

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2002

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

With over ten years of experience, we focus on plumbing projects in the Chocowinity area. We will treat your property as if it were our own. Give us a call today, we look forward to working with each and every customer.

Response time3 days

Recommended by87%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

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

Serving Aurora, NC 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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Solar Tek Energy of North Carolina, Inc.

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - Install

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

SolarTEK Energy of North Carolina is one of the largest solar integration companies in the Eastern United States and has been helping to make solar energy a reality in American homes since 1992

+17

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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CMH Plumbing

New to Angi

Tankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Install - For BusinessWater Heater - Install or Replace+1 more

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2002

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

CMH Plumbing is that rare choice in business with a professional acumen that you expect, but you get that and much more. Our craftsmanship, our dedication to customer satisfaction and all the skills utilized to do your job, whichever job you want completed, is performed--perfectly suited for your needs. Call today for a free estimate!!

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Wilsons Home Improvements

New to Angi

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

Serving Aurora, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Wilsons Home Improvements 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.

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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

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.

Professional installs conclude in mere hours, with complexity differences possibly prolonging efforts slightly. Site condition often dictates the exact duration.

Every city and state will have its own set of installation codes and laws. Some won’t require you to obtain a permit before replacing your water heater, though we recommend you do, regardless of the local codes. On the other hand, some cities and states might require secondary permits for plumbing and electrical work related to the installation. Check with a local water heater installation company and local building codes to confirm which permits are required and what the specific laws are.

Basements, specifically those without any air conditioning, are the best location for a hybrid water heater. These rooms are less likely to experience extreme temperature fluctuations, which can affect your hybrid water heater’s efficiency and performance. Basements often have more than enough space for their tanks and proper air circulation. Hybrid water heaters can also be a bit noisy, but putting them in your basement will keep the noise away from your main living areas.

A tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is nearly double the lifespan of a conventional tank heater. However, their longevity is highly dependent on several factors. With proper installation and regular maintenance, such as descaling to prevent mineral buildup from hard water, you can expect a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Without proper care, a tankless unit may begin to fail in as little as 12 years. Other factors that affect its lifespan include household usage and the quality of the local water supply. While they have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings, smaller size, and longer life make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

The Aurora, NC 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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