A broken water heater can turn a regular day into a stressful one fast. Whether you’re coming home from work or getting ready in the morning, no hot water means no showers, no dishwashing, and no laundry. This guide will show you who to call, what signs to look for, and how to avoid bigger issues later. We’ll cover when you can fix it yourself and when it’s time to call a licensed plumber. If you’re dealing with low hot water, strange sounds, or rusty water, this article will help you take the right next steps.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Is Broken

It’s not always obvious that your water heater is on the way out. But ignoring early warning signs can lead to more expensive repairs or a full replacement later. Here are some common clues that your water heater needs help:

• Water isn’t getting hot or stays warm for only a short time

• Strange banging, popping, or hissing noises from the tank

• Rust-colored or dirty water when you turn on the hot tap

• Water is leaking around the base of the heater

• The pilot light keeps going out on a gas unit

• Sudden drops in hot water pressure

If you notice any of these, it’s likely your water heater is struggling to keep up, or worse, failing altogether.

Quick Fixes You Can Try First

Before you call a plumber, there are a few simple things you can check yourself. Some water heater problems have easy solutions.

1. Check the Circuit Breaker

If your electric water heater suddenly stops working, it might be because the breaker tripped. Go to your breaker box and look for a switch labeled “Water Heater.” If it’s off, flip it back on. If it stays on, your heater may start working again.

2. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

This is a safety feature that prevents the tank from building up too much pressure. Pull the small lever on top of the valve and listen for a gurgling sound or see if water runs through the overflow pipe. If nothing happens or the valve seems stuck, it may need replacing — a job best left to a pro.

3. Reset the Water Heater

Many electric water heaters have a small red reset button. It’s usually located behind a panel on the side of the unit. Press it and wait about 30 minutes to see if hot water returns.

These steps won’t fix everything, but they might save you time and money if the issue is minor.

When to Call a Plumber for Hot Water Heater Repairs

If your DIY efforts didn’t solve the problem, it’s time to call in the pros. Plumbers are trained to diagnose and repair all types of water heater issues, and in most cases, they’re your best bet for fast, safe service.

Here’s when to make the call:

• You have no hot water at all

• Hot water pressure is suddenly very low

• The water smells like metal or has a rusty tint

• The tank is leaking

• You’re hearing strange sounds like popping or gurgling

• The pilot light won’t stay lit on your gas unit

Trying to fix these problems yourself can lead to water damage, electric shock, or gas leaks. A plumber can spot the issue quickly and get your system working again.

Why Licensed Plumbers Are the Right Choice

You might wonder if a handyman or even an electrician can help with your water heater. But the safest and smartest move is always a licensed plumber, especially when dealing with tanks, valves, gas lines, or drainage.

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Plumber:

• They know plumbing codes and safety rules

• They can work on both gas and electric models

• They have the right tools for complex repairs

• They can replace faulty parts without voiding your warranty

• They inspect the entire system, not just the tank

Choosing a licensed professional protects your home and ensures the job gets done right the first time.

Can Electricians Fix Water Heaters?

Sometimes. If your electric water heater has a wiring issue, an electrician may be able to help. But in most cases, the problem isn’t electrical. It’s more likely to be a plumbing issue, like a bad thermostat, broken heating element, corroded anode rod, or mineral buildup.

So while electricians can help in rare cases, plumbers are the experts to call first when your water heater stops working.

Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters: Who to Call

Knowing what type of water heater you have can also guide who to call for repairs:

Electric Water Heater Problems:

• Tripped breaker

• Burned-out heating elements

• Faulty thermostat

• Bad wiring
  Call a plumber first. If they suspect a wiring problem, they may suggest calling an electrician.

Gas Water Heater Problems:

• Pilot light keeps going out

• Thermocouple failure

• Gas valve issues

• Burner not lighting
  Call a plumber for any of these. Working with gas lines is dangerous and requires licensed help.

Repair or Replace? Making the Right Call

Sometimes, repairs are just a band-aid. If your water heater is more than 10 years old or has had multiple issues, it may be smarter (and cheaper in the long run) to replace it.

Good Time to Replace:

• Your heater is over 10-12 years old

• You’ve had two or more repairs in the past year

• You notice frequent leaks or pressure problems

• Your energy bills are going up

A plumber can give you a clear cost breakdown and help you decide whether repair or replacement is the better option.

Cost to Repair a Hot Water Heater

Hot water heater repair costs can vary based on the problem, the type of unit, and how urgent the job is. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Local rates may be different, especially if it’s after hours or on a weekend. Ask for a quote before agreeing to service.

How to Prevent Hot Water Heater Problems

Regular maintenance can help your water heater last longer and work better. You can also reduce the chances of waking up one day with no hot water at all.

Simple Ways to Maintain Your Water Heater:

• Drain and flush the tank once a year to remove sediment

• Test the pressure relief valve twice a year

• Insulate the pipes and the tank for energy savings

• Lower the thermostat to 120°F to prevent overheating

• Have a plumber inspect the system annually

Most homeowners skip maintenance until something breaks. A yearly check-up can help you avoid emergency repairs and keep your energy bills low.

Best Local Help for Hot Water Heater Repairs

If you’re looking for reliable hot water heater repair in your area, work with a plumbing company that:

• Specializes in water heater repairs and installations

• Offers emergency service and same-day availability

• Is licensed, insured, and experienced

• Has great local reviews and a solid reputation

Whether your system is leaking, not heating, or just needs a part replaced, a skilled plumber can diagnose the problem and fix it quickly. You’ll get your hot showers back and avoid the stress of guessing what’s wrong.

Don’t Wait When Hot Water Goes Cold

A water heater that doesn’t work is more than a minor inconvenience — it can disrupt your entire home routine. Thankfully, help is only a phone call away. Most problems can be fixed fast when handled by a licensed plumber. Knowing who to call and when can save you time, money, and hassle.

If you’re noticing warning signs like rusty water, low hot water pressure, or weird noises, don’t wait for it to get worse. Call a trusted local plumber and get your hot water back before you miss another comfortable shower.

Licensed Plumbers In Your Area

New Flow Plumbing is the company you can call if you need help with your water heater. Our plumbers know what they’re doing, and they’ll get your unit working again quickly. We have a wide range of solid experience with all kinds of hot water heaters, from tankless models to traditional ones. We’re able to repair any issue with your system, no matter how small or large it may be. We offer affordable pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee to all of our clients. Call now for a free estimate.