A cold shower or a faucet that refuses to warm up can ruin your morning. Many homeowners assume they’ll need an expensive new unit when their water heater stops working, but in many cases, water heater repair is a viable option. The cost of replacement can range from $500 to $1,000 or more, so understanding how your system works, identifying common problems, and knowing when a repair will suffice can save you a significant amount of money.
This guide walks you through the basics of how water heaters work, the most frequent issues to watch for, DIY solutions for troubleshooting, and when it’s time to consider a complete water heater installation.
How Water Heaters Work
A water heater looks simple from the outside, but inside the tank, several components work together to keep hot water flowing.
● Water entry: Cold water enters the tank through a dip tube and collects at the bottom of the tank.
● Heating source: An electric water heater relies on heating elements, while gas models heat water through a burner.
● Thermostat: A thermostat measures water temperature and signals the heating system to turn on or off.
● Outlet: Hot water leaves the tank through the outlet pipe whenever a faucet, shower, or appliance demands it.
Electric vs. Gas Models
● Electric water heater: These often have two water heater elements, an upper and a lower, controlled by thermostats. If one element fails, you may still get warm water, but not enough hot water. Troubleshooting requires opening the access panel with a screwdriver and using a multimeter to test the electrical components. Don’t forget to check the circuit breaker, as tripped breakers are another common issue.
● Gas water heater: Heat is generated in a combustion chamber and vented outside. The pilot light, thermocouple, and gas valve are the most frequent failure points.
Extra Components
● Expansion tank: Absorbs excess pressure caused by thermal expansion.
● Supply lines: Bring cold water in and carry hot water out. Corrosion, mineral buildup, or loose fittings at these points often cause leaks.
● Water softener: Reduces scale and extends the lifespan of the tank by minimizing mineral buildup.
When There’s No Hot Water
If your taps run cold, try these steps before calling for professional water heater repair:
● Thermostat check: Set the thermostat to 120°F.
● Test heating elements (electric): Remove the access panel and check continuity with a multimeter. Replace if needed.
● Pilot light (gas): Verify it’s lit. If it won’t stay lit, the thermocouple may be faulty.
● Power check: Inspect your circuit breaker panel for a tripped breaker.
If problems persist, especially in gas systems, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
Common Problems With Water Heaters
Water heaters typically fail in predictable ways. Here are some of the most common problems homeowners face:
● No hot water: A burned-out element, faulty thermostat, tripped circuit breaker, or blown fuse in electric models; pilot light or gas valve in gas models.
● Lukewarm water: One of the water heater elements may have failed, or the thermostat may be set too low.
● Strange noises: Sediment buildup causes popping, banging, or gurgling sounds.
● Water heater leaking: Valves, damaged fittings, or condensation can cause the issue. A corroded tank requires replacement.
● Rusty water or foul odor: Often caused by corrosion or bacteria reacting with sediment.
● Inconsistent water flow: Sediment buildup or blockages in the dip tube, outlet, or supply lines can restrict water flow.
What Water Heater Noises Mean
A noisy water heater often indicates a developing problem. Left unchecked, it can shorten the unit’s lifespan.
● Popping: Caused by water trapped under hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. Flushing usually helps.
● Banging or knocking: Loose chunks of scale bouncing around inside the tank. Excessive sediment can damage the lining or block the drain valve. Persistent banging often requires replacing the tank.
● Gurgling: Air passing through water filled with minerals or debris. It reduces efficiency and stresses the system.
● Boiling or rumbling: Overheating is a serious issue. High pressure builds inside the tank, and rupture is possible. Shut off power or gas immediately and call a plumber.
Flushing Sediment From the Tank
Sediment buildup is one of the biggest threats to your water heater. It reduces efficiency, damages water heater elements, and changes how the unit heats water.
How to Flush a Water Heater
1. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker (electric) or shut off the gas valve (gas).
2. Let the water cool.
3. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run the other end outside or into a floor drain.
4. Turn off the cold-water supply and open the drain valve.
5. Allow water to drain until it runs clear.
6. Close the valve, remove the hose, and reopen the cold-water supply.
7. Open a few hot-water taps to release air.
8. Restore power or gas.
Pro tip: If you still hear popping or banging, sediment may be coating your water heater elements. Replacing those elements may help restore normal operation.
Fixes for a Leaking Water Heater
A water heater leaking doesn’t always mean it’s time for replacement. Identifying the source is the first step.
● Drain valve leak: Tighten or replace the valve.
● Pressure relief valve leak: Replace immediately; this valve prevents dangerous overheating.
● Supply line leak: Tighten unions with two wrenches or replace corroded fittings.
● Condensation vs. leak: Temporary condensation can occur after filling with cold water.
Warning: If the water heater tank itself is leaking due to corrosion, replacement is the only option. Shut off the power and water supply immediately.
Replacing a Pressure Relief Valve
This small part prevents high pressure from building in the tank. If faulty, it must be replaced right away.
1. Shut off the power and water supply.
2. Allow the water to cool. Place a bucket below the valve.
3. Lift the lever briefly to clear debris.
4. If the leak continues, remove the valve using a wrench.
5. Wrap the threads of the new valve with Teflon tape.
6. Install the new valve tightly and reconnect the discharge pipe.
Repair or Replace?
Not every common issue requires a new water heater installation.
Repair Makes Sense If:
● The unit is under 8–10 years old.
● The tank shows no corrosion.
● Issues are minor, such as a thermostat, valve, or water heater elements.
Replace If:
● The water heater tank is leaking.
● Repairs cost nearly as much as replacement.
● The unit is 10–15 years old or older.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
If repairs are becoming routine, consider a new water heater installation. Modern models provide:
● Lower energy bills.
● Faster recovery times.
● Consistent water temperature.
● On-demand hot water with tankless units.
● Fewer breakdowns.
● Utility rebates or credits are available in some areas.
Pairing a new unit with a water softener can prevent mineral buildup and extend the system’s life.
Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
A water heater that’s regularly maintained will heat water more efficiently and last longer.
● Flush annually to clear sediment.
● Test the pressure relief valve once a year.
● Inspect supply lines for corrosion or leaks.
● Replace the anode rod every few years to prevent tank corrosion.
● Check water temperature regularly to avoid overheating.|
● Keep the thermostat at 120°F for safety and efficiency.
These small tasks are part of good home improvement practices and help delay the need for costly water heater installation.
Call a Kansas City Plumber
If you’re facing everyday problems such as inconsistent water flow, a water heater leaking at the base, or no hot water at all, professional help is often the safest solution.
A-1 Sewer & Septic Service specializes in water heater repair, replacement, and installation in the Kansas City area. From faulty water heater elements to complete tank replacement, our licensed plumbers provide same-day and emergency service.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection, request a complimentary estimate, or discover energy-efficient options for your home.