DIY or Hire a Pro? How To Fix Your Water Heater

Whether it’s to save money or for the pride of a job well done, many homeowners want to tackle household projects themselves. However, when it comes to water heaters, it’s easy to get confused about what’s safe to handle and what isn’t. These appliances involve hot water, electricity, and sometimes gas lines. These all require careful safety considerations.

John C. Flood walks you through some common water heater scenarios so you can determine when a simple fix is possible and when to call a professional.

Your Water Heater Isn’t Producing Enough Hot Water

If your water heater isn’t delivering enough hot water, several factors may be contributing to the issue. Common causes include a thermostat set too low, sediment buildup inside the tank, a tank that’s too small for your household’s needs, or a failing heating element. Simple checks you can safely perform include adjusting the thermostat to a slightly higher temperature, flushing minor sediment from the tank, or resetting the breaker on an electric unit.

However, major fixes carry risks. Accessing heating elements exposes you to the risk of electrical shock, and improperly flushing the tank can cause damage or leaks. If these steps don’t restore hot water, it’s best to hire a professional who can safely inspect and repair the heating components.

Verdict:

• DIY is possible for thermostat checks or breaker resets.
• Hire a Pro for heating element issues, severe sediment buildup, or repeated shortages.

Your Water Heater Is Leaking

You may notice a puddle forming under your water heater or dampness around the base. Leaks can come from any number of sources, including loose connections, faulty valves, or cracks in the tank itself. Each requires a different approach to address safely.

Leaking water poses serious risks, including structural water damage, mold growth, and electrical hazards if water reaches nearby outlets or wiring. While some minor leaks can be temporarily managed, cracks in the tank or failing valves usually require a full water heater replacement. Attempting major repairs on your own can increase damage and risk, so bringing in a professional is often the safest solution.

Verdict:

• DIY is possible if the leak is from a loose-fitting drain valve, and you’re comfortable tightening/patching.
• Hire a Pro if the leak is from the tank, T&P valve, or the source is unclear.

Your Pilot Light Keeps Going Out (Gas Models)

If your gas water heater’s pilot light won’t stay lit, you might notice the burner repeatedly shutting off or no hot water at all. Common causes include a faulty thermocouple, drafts near the pilot, or a clogged pilot tube that restricts gas flow. Homeowners often attempt to relight the pilot themselves, which can temporarily restore function if the issue is minor.

However, working with gas carries serious risks. Improperly handling the pilot or gas lines can lead to leaks or carbon monoxide exposure, both of which are dangerous. If relighting doesn’t resolve the problem quickly or the pilot continues to go out, call a professional to safely diagnose and repair the issue.

Verdict:

• DIY is possible if you can relight the pilot light per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Hire a Pro if it won’t stay lit, a gas smell is present, or thermocouple repair is needed.

Your Water Heater Trips the Breaker (Electric Models)

If your electric water heater keeps tripping the breaker, you may notice that power shuts off intermittently or the unit stops heating altogether. Common causes include faulty wiring, a malfunctioning heating element, or an electrical overload. Homeowners sometimes try to reset the breaker or inspect the wiring. However, the underlying issue often requires a closer look by a trained professional.

Electric repairs carry significant risks, including shock or fire, especially if wiring or heating elements are involved. Attempting DIY fixes without proper knowledge and safety precautions can make the problem worse or create a dangerous situation. Hiring a professional ensures the issue is resolved safely and the water heater operates reliably.

Verdict:

• DIY is Not Recommended beyond resetting the breaker.
• Hire a Pro for any recurring breaker trips or electrical component replacement.

You’re Replacing or Installing a New Water Heater

Replacing or installing a water heater is a larger undertaking than routine troubleshooting. It involves either removing an old unit or adding a completely new system. Common reasons for replacement include a tank that’s too small for your household, your unit is over 10–15 years old, you want to switch from a traditional tank to a tankless model, or a unit that has failed beyond repair.

DIY installation presents several challenges, including disconnecting and hauling out the old water heater, as well as managing proper disposal. Plumbing adjustments for water lines, gas line hookups, venting, or electrical wiring for tankless models all require precision and code compliance. Mistakes can lead to leaks, improper venting, carbon monoxide hazards for gas models, or even code violations if permits are not obtained. Hiring a professional ensures the installation is safe, compliant, and reliable.

Verdict:

• DIY is Not Recommended, as this job requires plumbing, electrical, and possibly gas expertise, plus knowledge of local codes.
• Hire a Pro to ensure safe installation, correct sizing, and compliance with building regulations.

Benefits of Professional Water Heater Repair

Choosing professional water heater repair and installation provides peace of mind by combining expertise in plumbing, gas, and electrical systems with fast and accurate diagnostics. Professionals are qualified to identify issues quickly, which prevents costly water damage and ensures repairs or installations meet safety and code requirements. 

At John C. Flood, our professional services are backed by warranties and more than 120 years of trusted experience serving homes in the DMV area. We give homeowners confidence that their water heater will operate safely and efficiently for years to come.

Explore Our Plumbing Services

John C. Flood provides expert water heater services throughout the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas, including professional installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. For over 120 years, we’ve specialized in:

• Tank water heaters
• Tankless water heaters
• Electric water heaters
• Gas water heaters
• Hybrid water heaters

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