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 Winfall, NC

Q: Should I replace my 20-year-old gas water heater?

• <div><p>If your gas water heater is over 20 years old, it should be replaced. Gas water heaters can last up to 12 years and while they can exceed this expectancy if well-maintained, a heater that's 20 years old would require replacement. The heater is unlikely to run as efficiently as a new model and could be more expensive to do so.</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: How often should you replace an anode rod?

• <div><p>Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener. </p></div>

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: 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>

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Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Winfall, NC

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Winfall, 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 Winfall, 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 April 26, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
Total SCAM!!! Every time Mathew Lockhart comes out from American Home Shield Warranty to one of my properties, or an associate of mines properties, he ALWAYS has an "Upcharge" and it is inevitably it's "$600". Last time it was "$600 to change out an outside spigot"....
Lockhart plumbing & drain cleaning
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Reviewed in December 2024
Spoke with Chris about the issues we were having with our water. He provided an abundance of information and options. He scheduled for the install the very next day and we couldn’t be happier with the work and professionalism of Paul, the technician assigned to the job. We would recommend them...
East Coast Water Quality NC, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2024
Michael was an excellent tech. He was prompt, informed, and performed our tankless hot water heater flush on the spot. I'd recommend A1 Sewer and Drain Plumbing to everyone!
A1 Sewer & Drain Plumbing & Water Heaters
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Reviewed in April 2024
My pool had not been covered for two winters and was not opened at all last year. This company worked diligently to clean my pool and balance water to perfection. I will be using them again. I just wish they could control the weather to get temperature high enough to warm the water. I canâ ...
Seaside Pool And Spa Cleaning
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Reviewed in February 2022
I made an appointment for Thursday morning and the man arrived at 11 A.M. He completely inspected the ice maker and told me that the water valve that fills the ice maker has a leak. He told me what he needed to do to fix the problem and what parts were needed. He ordered the parts and told me...
Choice Home Warranty
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Reviewed in July 2021
Extremely happy with installation of my tankless hot water heater. John and Joshua were very professional and explained the install completely. I would recommend A1 to all that are looking for this type of work as well as the technicians.
A1 Sewer & Drain Plumbing & Water Heaters
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Reviewed in March 2020
The actual job covered switching heating, air conditioning, and hot water to natural gas. All new equipment. Efficiently installed and good price. Service follow up was excellent.
ARS - Boston
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Reviewed in December 2019
Ricky Blanchard and his son Nick did an excellent job! On the first phone call I made to contact Ricky and describe the job, (the Friday after Thanksgiving) he gave an initial estimate of $400-$500. My mother-in-law, who the job was for, thought it was too high. I reassured her that it sounded...
Coastal Plumbing Services
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Reviewed in June 2017
Service was prompt, courteous and excellent. Tech was patient & complied when I insisted on a certain brand of water heater control. Ownership seems to want excellence. Only complaint is higher cost for' installation only' than desired. Would hire again.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
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Find Water heater pros in Winfall

Russell's American Mechanical

4.7(

1,070

)

Water Heater - Install or ReplaceTankless Water Heater - InstallTankless Water Heater - Repair

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Pro advised that an electric tankless water heater was not the best route to go for my home. American Mechanical Installed a new 50 gallon water heater instead."

97 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by94%of homeowners

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

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Still waiting for parts after 7 days. TOMORROW IS A WEEK.. We have no water heater. My wife recently had surgery and needs higene.can we replace the water heater???? PLEASE"

Recommended by82%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 Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"We pay yearly but we have this is included with our rental property. They are pretty good on most things. We had a hot water heater replaced and they did an excellent job on that. They are very quick on their response. They dont come out here. It is all done on the internet. I just like the idea that one time service charge is so much better than trying to hiring someone to come in. It is more about convenience. It pays for itself."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Solar Tek Energy of North Carolina, Inc.

5.0(

)

Solar Water Heater System - Install

Serving Winfall, 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

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

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

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!\n\n\n

Response time10 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Coastal Plumbing & Drain Cleaning

New to Angi

Tankless Water Heater - InstallWater Heater - Install or Replace

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Coastal Plumbing & Drain Cleaning we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, & quality work. We will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project.

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Wildest inc LLC

New to Angi

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

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

Been with my partner for 17 yrs we have done everything from dirt to roof tops on houses hotels motel apartments when I say everything i mean everything you name we can do it ni job to small no job too big free estimates if contract is made no hassle guaranteed professional services, a 100%. We're class A contractors with a great team to get the job done in a timely manner. No need to worry we're here to save the day just one call away.

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Wilsons Home Improvements

New to Angi

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

Serving Winfall, 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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Handyman

New to Angi

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

Serving Winfall, NC and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Our commitment to quality is evident from the beginning to the completion of your home improvement project. We will add beauty and value to your home. We are dedicated and we offer the most top quality work. You can be assured you're in good hands with Christopher working on your project. Call him today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you\n

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Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

If your gas water heater is over 20 years old, it should be replaced. Gas water heaters can last up to 12 years and while they can exceed this expectancy if well-maintained, a heater that's 20 years old would require replacement. The heater is unlikely to run as efficiently as a new model and could be more expensive to do so.

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.

Most hot water heater manufacturers recommend replacing the anode rod about once every three to five years. Anode rods sacrifice themselves by collecting iron, limestone, and other minerals that would otherwise corrode your hot water heater tank. This abuse wears them out long before your water heater does. Check the rod when you remove it and replace it if more than 50% of the metal has been consumed. Check the rod more frequently if you have hard water or use a water softener.

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

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.

The Winfall, 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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