Hot Water Tank Repair Explained

How you fix your hot water heater will depend on which type of unit you have. A tankless hot water heater heats water directly as it flows through the system instead of heating it and storing it in a tank. As a result, they are more efficient, which is great from an operating standpoint. However, they may also be harder to fix because the repair work is more likely to require a professional plumber and costlier to fix because the parts can be more expensive. Tank water heaters heat up water and store it in the tank until it is used. As the water inside is used, more is drawn in and heated to be ready for the next time it is needed. These are often easier to fix yourself if you know what you are doing but can be more dangerous to fix if you make a mistake because they contain hot water inside.

When plumbers repair a water heater they will first ask questions about what you have been noticing and then take a look at the unit to start troubleshooting. Their hot water heater troubleshooting efforts will include looking, listening, and testing various elements to diagnose the issue. Plumbers will check the power or gas supply, thermostat, heating element or burner, and anodes. They may need to flush the tank to make the repair or check their work afterwards, but the fix shouldn’t take as long as some other types of plumbing repair work. 

Typically, a hot water heater can be repaired on the same day. However, if it’s determined that you’ll need a replacement, it may need to be ordered or transported from a plumbing warehouse to your home. If that happens, you will be without hot water until the new unit can be installed.

When you need to get a hot water tank fixed, give us a call at 1 (800) 674-9130! We do hot water tank repair in Chicago and the surrounding areas. If you are experiencing an emergency, we can come out day or night, even on weekends and holidays to help you out! You’re in good hands with our team of trusted plumbers.

Additional Resources:
My Hot Water Tank is Leaking! Now What?
Why Don't I Have Hot Water?
How Expensive is Water Heater Thermocouple Replacement?
Water Heater Installation Labor Costs
Can Plumbers Repair Hot Water Heaters?
Do I Need to Call an Emergency Plumber?
How to Find Emergency Plumbers
What is the Cost to Hire Emergency Plumbers?
Who to Call to Replace a Water Heater?
Do Plumbers Repair Hot Water Tanks?
Is Water Heater Backdraft Repair Expensive?
Can I Repair My Water Heater Valve?
Who Does Water Heater Replacement?
Does My Water Heater Need Replacing?
What is the Cost to Repair a Water Heater?
Troubleshooting Guide for Water Heaters
Who Can Repair My Leaky Hot Water Tank?
Can Leaky Hot Water Heaters be Repaired?
How to Repair a Hot Water Heater