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>

How often should electric water heaters be replaced?

• <div><p>Electric water heaters typically last 10 to 20 years, though proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency—such as higher energy bills, frequent repairs, or leaks—replacement is a smart investment. Tankless models last over 20 years, which can make them a longer-lasting alternative to traditional tank water heaters.</p></div>

Get matched with top water heater pros in Wilburton, OK

Q: How often should a gas water heater be replaced?

• <div><p>You should replace your gas water heater when it&rsquo;s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-replace-gas-water-heater.htm">replace your water heater</a>. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.</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: 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 Wilburton, OK

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Wilburton, OK 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 Wilburton, OK 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 25, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
They redone our gravel driveway, cut down a hill in front of our house to stop the water, diverted all water around the sides of our house, put in several areas of rip rap rock.
Dubb Trucking and Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
These men were very helpful in prep us for the job. They did a temporary hook up so that we would have water at night when we were at home and worked on the wiring and plumbing during the day when we were gone. We experienced little to no inconvenience. We highly recommend them.
Spin Pumps LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Did a very professional job on installation on my new heater thank u all very much
Advantage Heating & Air
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Reviewed in May 2023
This was the absolute worst company to deal with. A week without hot water, close to $600 lighter and 2 trips from 2 different plumbers from this same company, we are no better off. Neither plumber that came out spent longer than 5 min with the tank and the office got rude, defensive, and...
Whitehead Plumbing LLC
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Reviewed in January 2018
Our 20+ year old heater quit working on a Sunday. Country Comfort arrived promptly on Monday morning. After they inspected the unit we discussed repair vs. new unit. They answered all our questions and left us with a quote with several options for a new HVAC. No pressure to decide on the spot;...
Country Comfort Heating & Air
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Reviewed in May 2014
called crow refidgeration from Davis, OK he came out and didnt do much inspecting and told us what was wrong and the price would be "around" $500.00 but didnt show up to do the job and we needed it ASAP so we decided to call red & blue heating and air. The owner Brent Riner came out did plenty...
Red and Blue Heating & Air
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Reviewed in April 2014
I called to get the icemaker repaired. Bob was punctual, very friendly, and ending up fixing the water dispensor as well, which hadn't worked in years. The price was very reasonable. I will most definitely call this repairman for all my future appliance repair needs.
Bob's Appliance Repair Co
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Reviewed in October 2013
Gary Henry and his helper came on a moment's notice to switch out our water well pump. That went well and even looked at one of my frost-free spigots that had lost water pressure. Fixed it for nothing and showed me how to fix it if needed in the future.
Henry's plumbing
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Find Water heater pros in Wilburton

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Neli Virtual Appliance Repair

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 94% of Angi customers

29090 local quotes requested

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

"Did a great job "

Don F on November 2025

"Did a great job "

Don F on November 2025

Happy at Home Plumbing LLC.

No reviews yet

Happy at Home Plumbing LLC.

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

Engages in the provision of plumbing services, including installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems for residential and commercial clients. Specializations include pipe repairs, fixture installations, and water heater services.

Krell Distributing Co Inc

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Krell Distributing Co Inc

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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!

Okie Plumbin Services

5.00(

)

Okie Plumbin Services

5.00(

)

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Locally owned and operated in Sulpher since 1994. Okie Plumbin' Services specializes in general plumbing, commercial or residential. Offering over 20 years of experience, Okie exceptional customer service and guaranteed satisfaction.

All Service Handy

No reviews yet

All Service Handy

No reviews yet

13 years of experience

All Service Handy is a privately owned company established on March 25, 2012. A.S.H. is a proffesional handyman business which provides general contracting for a broad range and variety of jobs for home improvement and construction. All of us here at A.S.H. take pride in our work offering our personal time to ensure and develop a friendly relationship and a comfortable experience. We strive to continue being a leader and example in providing excellent customer satisfaction and 100% QUALITY guaranteed.

Owner operator for 15 years. Roof repair & replacement, fence repair/replacement, full kitchen & bath remodel, interior/exterior remodel, windows, doors, and floors. Insured. Financing options available. Accepting major credit cards.

First Choice Improvements

2.33(

)

First Choice Improvements

2.33(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

43 years of experience

Premium quality products. Factory direct, lowest everyday pricing. Ask about our seasonal specials.

Showing 1-10 of 29

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

You should replace your gas water heater when it’s reached the end of its lifespan, which is a maximum of 12 years in most cases. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency, leaks, or frequent malfunctions, it may be time to replace your water heater. Research how to best maintain your gas water heater to help extend its lifespan.

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.

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.

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.

Electric water heaters typically last 10 to 20 years, though proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. If your unit is over a decade old and showing signs of inefficiency—such as higher energy bills, frequent repairs, or leaks—replacement is a smart investment. Tankless models last over 20 years, which can make them a longer-lasting alternative to traditional tank water heaters.

The Wilburton, OK homeowners’ guide to water heater services

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Apr 3, 2025Apr 3, 2025
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What size water heater you need depends on the number of people in your household and how much water you use. Keep reading to learn about water heater sizing.