Water Heater

A water heater is the hardworking appliance that delivers hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry throughout your home. Whether you're troubleshooting a lukewarm tank, comparing traditional versus tankless models, or planning a full replacement, understanding your options helps you make smarter decisions. Angi connects you with local pros who can handle installation, repairs, and maintenance, plus guides to help you every step of the way.
Water Heater Service Articles and Advice
Thinking about a solar water heater installation? Learn about the benefits, costs to expect, and how to hire the right local pro.
Waking up to cold water or spotting roof leaks? Learn about solar water heater repair costs, warning signs, and how to hire the right local pro.
Running out of hot water too quickly or hearing strange noises when you call for hot water? Use this water heater repair cost guide to see what a fix will cost.
Is your tank leaking or producing rusty water? Learn about water heater installation or replacement costs, warning signs, and how to hire a local pro.
Is your water heater leaking or leaving you with cold showers? Learn about water heater repair costs, warning signs, and how to hire the right local pro.
If your water heater is getting warm but not hot, a faulty thermostat, sediment, or more could be to blame. Learn how to spot and solve the problem of a water heater that’s not hot enough.
How much do water heaters weigh? The answer depends on the type of water heater, its size, and several other factors. Read on to learn more.
For any plumbing that’s far from the water heater, a recirculating pump is a great way to get hot water quickly. Recirculating pumps get rid of cold water fast and save you serious cash in the process. Learn what to know before getting one.
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Common Water Heater Service Questions

The best way to tell is if there’s a label, but there are other methods. Gas heaters will have gas lines leading to the unit, with a pilot light near the bottom of the tank (this is sometimes behind a small panel). Electric units often have lights to signal if they’re heating or not and may have electric panels to control the unit. If there is a vent pipe leading from your heater, it’s almost certainly gas-powered.

Water expands when heated and also when freezing. When water is heated, it expands by around 4%. For a full water heater, this is one of the main reasons malfunctions occur—the hot water has nowhere else to go but out. Due to the constant expansion and reduction in volume, it’s recommended (required in most places) that an expansion tank be installed.

Yes, a leaking water heater can damage electrical work. Water can seep into electrical components, causing short circuits, tripped breakers, or even fires. The combination of water and electricity is quite hazardous, so it's crucial to address any leaks immediately to prevent electrical damage and ensure your home’s safety.

While possible, professional assistance is recommended to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoidance of avoidable risks.

It is not recommended that you cut up your old water heater. Doing so poses a safety risk and may expose you to dangerous components inside the heater. If your water heater is too large or heavy to move on your own, call in a professional to handle removal and disposal.