Everything You Need to Know About Hot Water Heaters (and When to Call a Pro)

Few things are worse than stepping into an ice-cold shower on a freezing morning. Your hot water heater is one of the most important systems in your home — but most people don’t think about it until it stops working. Whether you need a quick repair or a full replacement, knowing the basics can save you time, money, and stress.

Types of Hot Water Heaters

1. Tank Water Heaters – The most common type. These store hot water in a large insulated tank, usually between 30 and 75 gallons.
   Pros: Affordable, simple, and reliable.
   Cons: Can run out of hot water and use more energy to maintain temperature.

2. Tankless Water Heaters – These heat water on demand as it passes through the unit.
   Pros: Energy-efficient, endless hot water, compact size.
   Cons: Higher upfront cost, may need upgraded gas lines or electrical service.

3. Hybrid or Heat Pump Heaters – Use electricity and ambient air to heat water.
   Pros: Extremely energy-efficient.
   Cons: More expensive and need more installation space.

Common Hot Water Heater Problems

• No hot water or inconsistent temperatures

• Leaks or puddles around the unit

• Rust-colored or cloudy water

• Unusual noises (popping, banging, hissing)

• High energy bills

If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them — small issues like sediment buildup or faulty thermostats can lead to major leaks or system failure.

Repair or Replace? Here’s How to Decide

Problem – Usually Repaired / Replacement Recommended

Pilot light out – Yes / No

Thermostat malfunction – Yes / No

Small leak from valve – Yes / No

Tank corrosion – No / Yes

Over 10 years old – No / Yes

Water rust-colored – No / Yes

Pro tip: The average lifespan of a tank water heater is around 8–12 years. If yours is nearing that range, it’s often smarter to invest in a new, energy-efficient model rather than keep repairing an old one.

Benefits of Professional Installation

Hiring a licensed plumber or HVAC tech ensures:

• Proper sizing and venting for your home

• Code-compliant installation

• Safer operation and better efficiency

• Warranty protection

A professional will also help you choose the best system for your family’s water usage and budget — whether gas, electric, or tankless.

Need Hot Water Fast? We’ve Got You Covered

At All Pipe Repair & Drain Service, we specialize in hot water heater repair, replacement, and installation across New York. Whether your system just stopped working or you’re upgrading to a tankless setup, we’ll diagnose the problem, give you a clear price upfront, and get your hot water running again the same day.

Call or text us now to schedule a free quote.

Licensed • Insured • Emergency Service Available

hot water heater repair near me

water heater installation

tankless water heater expert

emergency water heater service

replace water heater NYC

replace water heater Westchester

replace water heater Bronx