Get matched with top water heater pros in Narrows, VA

Q: What is the difference between a boiler and a water heater, and can they be used together?

• <div><p>No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.</p><p>While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.</p></div>

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

• <div><p>The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.</p></div>

Q: Can I use multiple tankless water heaters?

• <div><p>You can use multiple tankless water heaters, but that doesn&rsquo;t mean you should. Adding multiple tankless heaters adds considerable cost to your home in both parts and installation costs. Also, you&rsquo;re adding many more points of failure in the system, making plumbing issues harder to diagnose. More heaters mean more maintenance, and insurers may want a word regarding the increased risk of water damage. A single, larger unit makes more sense in most situations. </p></div>

Q: Should I consider an electric water heater?

• <div><p>Choosing between an <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/gas-vs-electric-water-heaters.htm">electric water heater vs. a gas water heater</a> comes down to personal preference. Overall, electric heaters are more energy efficient than their gas competitors. They&rsquo;re also quieter to operate, take up less room, and don&rsquo;t come with a risk of gas leaks. </p><p>The downside is that electric water heaters cost more to operate than gas. They might also struggle to heat water fast enough for households that use large amounts of hot water. Lastly, a power outage could cause your electric water heater to stop working, whereas gas water heaters may still function.</p></div>

Q: Are hot water heater expansion tanks necessary or required by code?

• <div><p>While not all homes require a hot water heater expansion tank, they are necessary in most newer homes and are often mandated by local building codes. Codes typically require an expansion tank if your plumbing system is a 'closed-loop' system, which often includes a backflow preventer or pressure regulator on the main water line. Some municipalities have specific requirements. Installing an expansion tank on a closed system is crucial, as it prevents excess pressure that can damage your water heater and other appliances, potentially shortening their lifespan. However, tankless water heaters do not require an expansion tank.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your water heater service project in Narrows, VA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Water Heater Service pros in Narrows, VA

*The Angi rating for Water Heater Service companies in Narrows, VA 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 Narrows, VA 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 August 13, 2024

Reviewed in August 2024
We discovered our water heater had been leaking for a while, and our floor rotted out. We needed help fast. I sent a request for help on Angi and was contacted by Mr. Day within minutes. He made arrangements to meet with us the same day, on a Sunday afternoon. He was very professional and...
East River General Contractors
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2024
Hiring DW has been one of the biggest mistakes of my life. He does not care about the quality of work. His actions caused water damage inside my house. It has been one thing after another. We are soon going to court.
DW Enterprise
Request a quote
Reviewed in May 2022
Crawl space insulation was removed due to a water leak. Setting up an appointment for replacement was quick and easy. it was a small job but necessary nonetheless. Installers arrived as scheduled and were professional and efficient. Great job!
Home Insulation Experts, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
Jeremiah is one of the most nice and fully capable water men in thei business we loved the product the great service amazing instal and helped with all my other plumbing I would hire them In a minute
Advanced Water Treatment, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2019
Worked extra hard as my water had low pressure.
Virginia Gutter Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2019
Unlike most contractors, Jason called within minutes of being contacted. Did the work within a short time frame. About the work: We had water damage from a leaky pipe, and shower drain in our downstairs bathroom. We hired a local plumbing company to replace our whole house plumbing. After the...
Paramount Construction LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2016
Joe, @ A-J Construction, went beyond his call of duty to go the extra mile to help someone in need of heat. His service was provided during the Joshua snow storm with temps well below freezing . I live in southern WV and I called 11 different contractors for a friend that lives in Elkridge, MD....
A-J Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2014
<p>He left flashing off of the roof and the water runs under the metal.</p> <p><br /></p> <p><br /></p> <br />
Dillon Construction
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2014
The salesman was great. The wait to get the new windows and doors was reasonable but then we had a few problems. The installation guys worked slow, taking really long breaks. They did a really sloppy job on the doors. The outside looks fine but the inside is awful. They messed up our...
WINDOW WORLD OF BECKLEY
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2012
I was very pleased with my overall experience. <br /> Our commode was leaking badly and I didn't know of any plumbers. I remembered the commercial on tv about "Angies List". I looked on "Angies List" for a plumber to hire and fix my plumbing issue. I located "tjm plumbing", he was the closest...
TJM Plumbing, LLC
Request a quote

Find Water heater pros in Narrows

Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Drain Service

4.3(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1935

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Allen and Justin (Blacksburg location) did their work late on a Friday afternoon without any complaints. They were efficient and I felt like they were honest in their assessment and repair advice. They walked me through almost everything and gave advice on how to extend the water heater life."

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by87%of homeowners

Request Quote

Providence Construction

4.8(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"This was an electric water heater replacement. The installer was very professional and honest. I have no issues with the workmanship."

Response time1 day

Response rate100%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Bakers Appliance Heating & Air

4.3(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1978

Credit card accepted

"I used them for so many years. They did my spring, summer and fall maintenance. I had water leaking in the basement for weeks and they could not figure out the problem. I had a friend come out and he figured out the problem. That is why I do not use them anymore."

Recommended by82%of homeowners

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

Serving Narrows, VA 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 by81%of homeowners

Request Quote

Home Appliance Repair Services, Inc.

3.7(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

We repair and service all major brands of home appliances, heating and cooling systems.

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Our Company is your best source for professional, value driven low cost service. We have over 26 years of collective and comprehensive knowledge and experience. Meaning that we are able to provide the most value and innovation per your dollar spent. We are dedicated to serving our customers' needs, and our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. We strive to bring you the best in quality service. If something isn't correct, please let us know. Our Company is a family owned business. We offer a wide variety of services ranging from emergency repairs to ongoing plumbing maintenance. We're committed to providing the best service no matter how simple or difficult the job.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Ferguson Home Improvements LLC

4.4(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a Family owned Home Improvements / Handyman Company who is passionate about providing top quality work at a fair and reasonable price. No Job Is Too Small!!!

Recommended by87%of homeowners

Request Quote

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 Narrows, VA 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

Request Quote

Bud Hypes Plumbing & Sewer Service

3.9(

)

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

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"The 2 men that came were very professional and polite. They cleaned up after themselves and even took my old water heater away. I would use them over and over."

Recommended by75%of homeowners

Water Heater - Install or ReplaceWater Heater - Repair or Service

Serving Narrows, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1988

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

When you have appliances in the house that need repaired or if you have HVAC service needs of any kind, be sure and call Masters-n-Mechanical.All work done to your satisfaction and 100% guaranteed.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Showing 1-10 of 17

Water Heaters questions, answered by experts

No, boilers and water heaters are not interchangeable because they serve different primary functions. Boilers are used for central heating systems, providing hot water or steam to heat your home. In contrast, a water heater's purpose is to supply hot water for daily household use, such as for faucets and showers. A water heater alone cannot supply the warm water or steam needed for a central heating system.

While they are not interchangeable, it is common to have both a boiler and a water heater. In fact, a conventional boiler often works best when a water heater system is already in place. The two systems can be combined to provide both heating and hot water, either by pairing a boiler with an indirect water heater or by installing a premade combination boiler-water heater unit. For home heating, some homeowners may also opt for a furnace instead of a boiler.

The time it takes to install or replace a water heater depends on the type of heater and the complexity of the job. A professional can typically replace a standard tank-style water heater in one to three hours. However, if the work area is tight, such as a small closet or crawl space, the job could take four to five hours. Replacing an existing tankless unit takes about two to three hours, while upgrading from a tank-style to a tankless water heater is more complex and can take four to six hours. The project will take longer if you are switching fuel sources, such as installing a gas heater which can add about an hour to the timeline, or if the unit needs to be relocated.

You can use multiple tankless water heaters, but that doesn’t mean you should. Adding multiple tankless heaters adds considerable cost to your home in both parts and installation costs. Also, you’re adding many more points of failure in the system, making plumbing issues harder to diagnose. More heaters mean more maintenance, and insurers may want a word regarding the increased risk of water damage. A single, larger unit makes more sense in most situations.

Choosing between an electric water heater vs. a gas water heater comes down to personal preference. Overall, electric heaters are more energy efficient than their gas competitors. They’re also quieter to operate, take up less room, and don’t come with a risk of gas leaks.

The downside is that electric water heaters cost more to operate than gas. They might also struggle to heat water fast enough for households that use large amounts of hot water. Lastly, a power outage could cause your electric water heater to stop working, whereas gas water heaters may still function.

While not all homes require a hot water heater expansion tank, they are necessary in most newer homes and are often mandated by local building codes. Codes typically require an expansion tank if your plumbing system is a 'closed-loop' system, which often includes a backflow preventer or pressure regulator on the main water line. Some municipalities have specific requirements. Installing an expansion tank on a closed system is crucial, as it prevents excess pressure that can damage your water heater and other appliances, potentially shortening their lifespan. However, tankless water heaters do not require an expansion tank.

The Narrows, VA homeowners’ guide to water heater services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Haley Nothstein
•
Oct 1, 2026Oct 1, 2026
How Much Does a Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]
Learn about the different factors that go into water heater gas valve replacement costs to see if you should DIY the project or call a pro.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Flush a Water Heater? [2026 Data]
A water heater flush costs $160 on average but can vary based on the unit size, type, labor, location, and more. Keep reading to learn how much you could pay.
Allie Ogletree
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does a Tankless Water Heater Cost? [2026 Data]
Tankless water heater costs depend on the size of your water heater, location, fuel type, and more. Keep reading to calculate your expenses.
Taylor Sansano
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Water Heater Frozen? How to Defrost a Water Heater
Worried your water heater might freeze this winter? Learn to spot the warning signs and how to safely thaw your tank or tankless system out if necessary.
Kelly Reilly
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
The Pros and Cons of Hybrid Water Heaters
Hybrid water heaters will have you weighing high initial costs versus long-term savings. Is it the right option for you? Explore the pros and cons of hybrid water heaters.
C.E. Larusso
•
Jul 20, 2026Jul 20, 2026
How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
The average lifespan of water heaters is 6 to 15 years for conventional models and up to 20 for tankless ones, but it can be less if they are not properly maintained.