hot water tank safety valve leaking price

Water heaters come equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve, also known as a TPRV. This valve allows water or steam to escape from the water heater if the temperature or pressure gets too high. This prevents a water heater from exploding or turning into a missile.

When a TPRV at a water heater leaks, it’s usually a simple fix; just replace the valve. These valves cost less than $15 and replacing the valve is a basic job. There are plenty of videos on YouTube showing how to do this, and the whole project probably won’t take more than fifteen minutes.

If you replace a TPRV and it starts leaking again, it probably means the valve is doing its job; it’s relieving excess pressure. When this happens, the fix gets a little bit more involved, and some troubleshooting is in order.

The TPRV on a water heater is set to discharge at 150 PSI or 210° Fahrenheit.  These numbers will be printed right on the valve, or on a tag attached to the valve.  See below.

If a pressure relief valve for a boiler is accidentally installed on a water heater, it will leak like crazy from the start. These valves may look identical, but they’re set to go off at 30 psi, not 150 psi.

The easiest way to do this is to get a gauge with a garden hose thread, connect it to an outside garden hose faucet, and open up the faucet. If that’s not an option, you can also use the hot or cold spigot for a washing machine. You should expect the pressure to be somewhere in the 40 – 80 PSI range with no other water running. If the pressure is over 80 PSI, it should be corrected. That’s too high for your system. The solution is to have a pressure regulator installed. Get a plumber to do that, as they’ll need to install an expansion tank at the same time. I’ll come back to those in a minute.

If the pressure is within the acceptable range, you probably have an intermittent problem with excessive pressure that can be easily re-created. Go run a bunch of hot water at your plumbing fixtures until you’ve exhausted the hot water supply on your water heater, and keep running the water for another few minutes. If you have several fixtures open, this should only take about ten to fifteen minutes. Now stop running water at all of your fixtures and wait.

You’ve just replaced the hot water in your water heater with cold water, which will cause your water heater to run for a while. This will cause the water to expand significantly until the water heater thermostat is satisfied. That might take about an hour or two. In most situations, this water will expand back out through the cold water inlet, all the way back to the water supply coming into the house. The municipal water supply for the house acts as a gigantic expansion tank… and nobody notices. This is illustrated in the diagram below.

A closed system exists when water can’t leave your house. One way for this to happen is to have a check valve installed on the water supply coming into the home. I don’t see a lot of these in Minnesota, but I do see them periodically.

The other way to create a closed system is to have a pressure regulator installed that contains a built-in check valve. With either of these installed, water can’t leave the house. When water expands and can’t go anywhere, pressure in the system increases. Watch your pressure gauge to verify this. Once the pressure gets to 150 PSI, the TPRV should do its job and leak.

When a closed system exists on the water distribution piping in a home, an expansion tank needs to be installed somewhere on the plumbing system. This is a simple and straightforward fix; an expansion tank will give the water somewhere to go when it expands, and the TPRV on the water heater will stop causing problems.

Expansion tanks are required when a closed system exists, both by water heater manufacturers and by plumbing codes. The Minnesota State Plumbing Code requires an expansion tank when a pressure regulator is installed (608.2):

An approved expansion tank shall be installed in the cold water distribution piping downstream of each such regulator to prevent excessive pressure from developing due to thermal expansion and to maintain the pressure setting of the regulator.

A water system provided with a check valve, backflow preventer, or other normally closed device that prevents dissipation of building pressure back into the water main shall be provided with an approved, listed, and adequately sized expansion tank or other approved device having a similar function to control thermal expansion.

If an expansion tank is already installed and there is still a problem with excessive pressure, you have a problem with the expansion tank. I’ll talk about expansion tanks in next week’s blog post.

So how much will water heater repair cost? The exact amount varies depending on the issues you’re facing, the time it takes to repair, and even the technician you hire.

The dip tube carries cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. If the dip tube is corroded, blocked, or leaking, water heating won’t occur as efficiently.

The pressure relief valve makes sure your water tank pressure remains at safe levels. If pressure builds up too much, this valve opens to relieve some of that pressure.

If you notice that the valve is consistently leaking, it may mean that the tank’s pressure is too high, or you might simply have a faulty/clogged valve.

The function of the anode rod in your water tank is to prevent corrosion. It does this by taking on corrosion first—as long as the anode rod is corroding, your water tank and heating element won’t.

The thermostat regulates the temperature in your water heater. If there is more heat needed, it will turn on the heating elements. Once water is warm enough, the elements are turned off.

Electric heaters use a conductive metal element to heat the water. Therefore, if the element is corroded or stops functioning, you don’t get hot water.

Tankless water heatersare a relatively new technology that helps save you on water heating costs. Since they function quite differently from conventional water heaters, they will have their own unique issues.

Tankless water heaters require periodic flushing to keep mineral and sediment from building up inside the unit. Cleaning this buildup out will allow the unit to run more efficiently, so it’s recommended that you get your water heater tank flushed about once per year.

Water heater gas valve replacement costs $150 to $550 on average. Hot water heater gas control valve prices are $100 to $300 for the part alone, plus $50 to $250 for labor. Replacing a water heater pressure relief valve costs $50 to $300.

Consider replacing the entire water heater if the repair estimate is over $500 or the unit is more than 10 years old. Water heater replacement costs $600 to $1,800.

Costs to replace a gas control valve depend on the brand of the valve and labor. Diagnosing a failed gas valve involves troubleshooting several more common part failures, often leading to other potential repairs.

Gas control valve prices are $100 to $300 for the part alone, depending on the brand. The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the water heater"s burner, allows the pilot light to ignite, and shuts down the gas supply if the water temperature reaches critical heat limits.

Other water heater repairs cost $150 to $700on average, depending on the problem. Troubleshooting the gas control valve involves testing several more common malfunctioning parts, including the pilot light, ignitor, thermocouple, thermostat, or pressure relief valve.

Replacing a water heater pressure relief valve costs $50 to $300.The pressure relief valve, or TPR valve, is the most important safety device in the water heater. If the pressure inside the tank gets too high, the valve opens and releases water to prevent the tank from exploding.

DIY water heater gas valve replacement costs $100 to $300for the valve and $10 to $20 for the necessary tools and supplies like a screwdriver, wrench, and Teflon tape. Replacing the valve yourself saves $50 to $250 in labor costs.

If you smell gas, immediately shut off the gas supply and contact a plumber for emergency repairs. A faulty gas control valve may cause a dangerous gas leak, fire, or explosion.

Since these are also common signs of other component failures, rule out simpler repairs first. Check the pilot light, ignitor, and thermocouple before assuming the gas valve has failed.

Water heater gas valves are not always interchangeable. Brand-specific valve styles and connections ensure gas flow to the pilot and burner matches the heater"s BTU output. Different fuel sources, like natural gas, propane, and oil-fired heaters, use different valves.

A furnace gas valve replacement costs $200 to $800 installed. A replacement is more cost-effective than a furnace gas valve repair since the increased labor costs exceed the cost of a new part.

A leak from your water heater’s pressure relief valve is a major concern, especially if it’s the first time dealing with this problem. While some people tend to panic and get help immediately, others may just shrug their shoulders and assume that the leak is a common occurrence. However, there are many causes of leaks in water pressure relief valves. And all these must be addressed immediately given the high risks of property damage and hazards that can occur if the issue is ignored.

The pressure relief valve gives steam and water a chance to escape when either the pressure or temperature in the water tank gets too high. A malfunctioning valve can cause the water heater to explode and is the major cause of water heater explosions. In water heater pressure relief valves, the valve is set to open when the pressure exceeds 150 psi.

A leaking valve is not always a broken valve. In some cases, a water heater’s pressure relief valve may leak because it is functioning as intended. As excess pressure is relieved out of your water heater system, some water may leak. This necessitates the need to test the pressure in your water heater.

The process is not complicated. However, if you are not comfortable checking the water pressure, you can always contact your technician. To test the pressure, use a pressure gauge and attach it to either the cold-water pipe or the hot water pipe. However, one of the easiest places to connect the pressure gauge is the outdoor hose faucets. For this, ensure you purchase a pressure gauge that is designed for garden hoses.

Turn off all water outlets and faucets. The pressure reading should be between 40 psi- 80 psi. If the gauge shows a psi reading of 150 and above, then the cause of the leak could be high pressure. If the water pressure is normal and the leak is persistent, then high water pressure is not the cause of the leak.

If you get a high-pressure reading, then you could be dealing with a closed plumbing system issue. This means that when the water is heated, the pressure increases as it should. But with nowhere to go, the valves open to relieve the pressure. Luckily, this can be solved by installing an expansion tank that gives the pressure an outlet other than a pressure relief valve.

Although rare, your water heater’s pressure relief valve could be leaking as a result of excessively high temperatures. However, the water has to be near the boiling point. To check the water temperature, ensure you turn on the hot water faucet. Run the water for one minute and use a meat thermometer to take the temperature reading. The temperature should be around 120 degrees. If more than this, then you need to have the water heater checked. The water temperature would need to be close to 212 degrees to set off the relief valve.

While this is an uncommon occurrence, it is not far-fetched. Your technician could have used a pressure valve for another appliance since they have the same function. However, these other pressure relief valves are set to go off at a lower psi. For instance, boiler pressure valves go off at 30 psi. If installed in a water heater, you are likely to get leaks immediately after installation. As such, if you have had your water heater for years and only experienced the leaks after a long period, then this is an unlikely cause of the leak.

A slight leak may occur if your water heater’s pressure relief valve has not been opened for a while, say a few years. While this leak is normal and may not be an indicator of a problem with the water heater system, you may need to replace the valve if the leak becomes more serious. It is cheaper to replace the entire valve than to repair it and have to deal with the same problem later on.

A leak in your water heater’s pressure relief valve could also be caused by a faulty pressure relief valve. While pressure relief valves barely break down, excessive wear and improper installation can cause extensive damage. Unfortunately, a faulty pressure valve can not be repaired and must be replaced. However, the cost of pressure valves is affordable and ranges around $30.

Know your water heater and how it functions– Water heaters can be intimidating, especially for people with less technical know-how.  Understand what every part of the system plays in heating water such as the water shutoff valve, drain valve, thermostat, and pressure relief valve. This eases the maintenance routine and ensures you have a fair understanding of any malfunctions.

Insulate the pipes and the water heater– By insulating both the cold water and hot water pipes, you get to prevent condensation while also reducing heat loss. Also, insulating the water heater helps to keep water hot when surrounded by cold air.

Carry out regular maintenance– Inspect your water heater monthly, ensuring that all valves and pipes are in good shape. This also helps you catch corrosion and leaks early enough before they turn out to be bigger problems. And every year, carry out a water heater flush. Given that you cannot pinpoint all problems, have a qualified technician inspect the system annually.

Regardless of the possible cause of a leak in your water heater’s pressure relief valve, please contact a qualified plumber as soon as possible. And if you think it’s a problem that you can solve without getting help, ensure you have a qualified plumber confirm that the system is performing optimally after. Water heater issues should not be taken lightly as they can cause more issues, even explosions.

[2023 Update]: 95% of the time, the main reason people call about a water heater problem is leakage, which is not repairable and we must replace it. The typical range for water heater replacement is between $1300 to $5500, averaging around $1700. For the rest of the cases, the price tag on your electric water heater repair project, one of the most critical aspects, will be the specific part that requires work. The average cost of repairing a water heater is $506. *Prices vary based on the complexity of the circumstances.

Most of the time, homeowners put little thought into their water heater. As long as the unit works, it’s out of sight and out of mind. When the water heater is on the fritz, however, it becomes hard to ignore. A faulty water heater can adversely impact quality of life in a number of ways.

For example, hot showers will be out of the question. Some family members may forgo bathing altogether! Unwashed dishes may start to pile up. Laundry equipment won’t be as powerful in removing stains. It may feel like your home life has come to a complete stop.

The good news is that water heater issues can usually be fixed promptly. Is your water heater leaking? Is it simply not working as intended? Contact an experienced plumber who can diagnose the problem. From there, you can get your water heater repaired or replaced.

As you consider this possibility, it’s natural to wonder about price. How much will the water heater repair cost? We’ll answer that question in this comprehensive guide.

There are a number of factors that can determine the cost. One of the most important issues is whether you get your hot water heater repaired or replaced.

A good rule of thumb is that water heater’s life expectancy is 9 years. Without draining, water heaters that receive heavy use may not last quite as long. But 9 years is a good number to keep in mind.

If your water heater is more than 9 years old, and it starts giving you trouble, it will almost certainly be more cost-effective to replace it. Repairing it may be possible, but it could turn out to be just a short-term fix.

Another way of looking at it: If your unit is under seven years old, you will almost always want to repair it. Replacement probably won’t be necessary. But if your water heater is over seven years old, that’s where things get tricky. While it may be possible to repair it, it may or may not make financial sense to do so.

A skilled plumber will be able to advise you on the best way to get your hot water working again, without breaking the bank. That will be one of the determining factors in the cost of addressing your water heater problem.

There are several common problems that can cause a water heater to function suboptimally. Sometimes, it’s possible to assess for yourself what the issue is. Your plumber will be able to confirm your suspicions. Once an accurate diagnosis is made, you’ll have a better sense of the cost you’re looking at.

One of the most obvious problems is that you’re just not getting enough hot water. One possible reason is that the unit is undersized. Hot water heaters come with different tank sizes to accommodate different sizes of house/family. If you consistently have too little hot water, it may be because your heater is just too small. Replacing it with a larger unit may be the best way forward.

Another possibility is that you need to adjust the thermostat. If you’re not getting enough hot water, it may just be because you have the temperature dial on the wrong setting. This is a very easy fix.

Note that sometimes it’s wise to turn the thermostat up when the outside temperature falls. That’s because the hot water is more likely to cool as it travels through the pipes to the faucet or fixture.

Any time you adjust the temperature on your water heater, be careful to make only light adjustments. You don’t want to turn it too high and risk burning yourself.

Another possible fix: Test the temperature pressure relief valve. This is a part of the water heater that keeps pressure from building in the boiler. Lift or lower the handle to let extra water drain out. If this doesn’t work, you may need to have a new pressure relief valve installed. This is a task for a Carter professional plumber.

Another issue to consider is the dip tube, which supplies cold water to the unit. Sometimes, these tubes can become cracked or broken. When this happens, cold water mixes with the hot water. This tube can be replaced by a professional plumber. If the water heater is old, you may want to replace the whole thing.

First, consider whether yours is a gas-powered water heater. If so, then the issue you’re looking at it probably gas related. It could be that the pilot light is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If you have an electric water heater, the problem is likely with the heating element. Replacing a water heating element is a relatively small job. This is something a Carter plumber can help you with. Then, you’ll be back in business, with more than enough hot water.

Sometimes, water heaters can yield water that has an unusual aroma to it. Likewise, your water may come out looking discolored. Both are causes for worry, but what are the underlying issues? And how can they be fixed?

The issue may be with the water source. Pay attention to the smell and/or discoloration. Do they happen only with cold water? If so, then it’s a water source issue. You can fix this problem by installing a whole-house water filter. You’ll likely need a professional plumber to help with this.

But what if the problem is exclusively with hot water? If that’s the case, then the issue is with your tank. Something inside has started to corrode. There may be a reaction between the anode rod and sulfur in the water.

A related issue: What if your hot water has a garlic-like odor? This may suggest a problem with your pilot light. Turn off the gas control valve. Wait for the gas to dissipate. Then, reignite your pilot light. If this doesn’t work, turn off your gas supply and open windows or doors for ventilation. Call a Carter plumbing company or the gas company right away!

What does it mean when your water heater tank makes a lot of racket? A noisy tank could point to a few potential problems. Chances are, you’re dealing with one or more of these issues:

There are a couple of ways to remedy this. First, have a magnesium or aluminum anode rod placed at the top of the tank. And second, make sure you’re in the habit of draining your tank 1 time per year minimum.

Now, you may sometimes hear what sounds like a boiling noise coming from your unit. This is a different kind of hot water heater problem. What it means is that your unit is overheating. You may have a dangerous build-up of pressure. Make sure you call a plumber ASAP to look at it.

Do you have a leaky water heater? If so, you’ll likely know it soon. Water will quickly spread out across your garage or utility room. (Or wherever you keep your hot water heater.)

So far, we’ve been discussing problems common to water heaters. The first step toward addressing your issue is to figure out what’s causing it. A Carter professional plumber can assist you with this.

Cost of labor.The pricing of water heater repairs can be variable. One of the big factors is cost of labor. A plumber may charge as little as $40 hourly. Or, they may charge more than $150. Repairing a heater usually takes two hours or less. However, this too can vary by the nature of the repairs.

These are just a few of the factors that can determine the cost of water heater repairs. Of course, the biggest factor of all is which partneeds to be repaired or replaced. That’s what we’ll discuss in the next section.

We have touched on each of these components already. Some repair jobs may involve other parts of the water heater. However, 90 percent of the time, the issue will be with one of these parts.

Most heaters actually have two thermostats. Each one corresponds with one of the elements. If either thermostat goes bad, the water won’t heat as efficiently.

The lower-most thermostat handles most of your water heating. If you have an especially big load of hot water, the upper thermostat will kick in. If either one goes out, you could notice that your hot showers don’t last as long. Or, there may be too much cold water mixed in with the hot water.

What is a dip tube, exactly? This is the pipe that transfers cool water from the top of the tank, back down to the bottom. There, it can be reheated by the lower element. Over time, this tube can get worn out. It may even spring a leak. If this happens, cool water will be mixed in with hot water. This reduces the overall water temperature.

Finally, we come to the pressure valve. This is another small part of the heater that can sometimes fall into malfunction. Repairing this can cost anywhere from $20 to $200.

There are different factors that could cause the valve to go bad. Sometimes it just gets worn down. In other cases, it may have too much sediment build up. Either way, this is usually a matter to be handled by a professional.

So far, we’ve primarily focused on water heaters that are powered by electricity. However, gas water heaters can present their own issues and concerns.

Gas water heaters can be a little more difficult to assess than electric water heaters. If your gas heater is not working, you may want to hire a professional plumber. Your plumber will be able to accurately diagnose the underlying issue.

You may wish to save yourself a few dollars by relighting the pilot light yourself. Only attempt this if you can completely follow the safety manual that accompanies your water heater. There are real dangers to playing with gas water heaters without the right precautions.

If you attempt to relight the pilot light and it doesn’t work, there may be another problem. Most likely, this is a problem with your thermocouple or gas control valve. See below for more information about these potential repairs.

Thermocouples serve a simple purpose. They detect whether the pilot light is lit. This in turn releases the gas control valve. Essentially, this just turns on the gas.

Finally, we come to the valve. What is the average cost of replacing the gas control valve? This is one of the more expensive fixes for a gas heater. It may cost between $300 and $500.

A couple of notes: One, this is a harder task than the two we previously mentioned. It’s less likely that you can do it on a DIY basis. Two, if you have a malfunctioning valve, that means your unit is dangerous. We recommend shutting off the gas supply. Then, call a plumber right away. This qualifies as an emergency service need.

As we come to the end of our guide, there are a couple of additional points to address. Understanding these points can make you a more responsible water heater owner.

Through daily use, your tank may accumulate debris and sediment. Over time, this sediment builds up. Eventually, this impedes your unit from working the way it’s supposed to. If your heater becomes noisy, that might mean there’s a sediment build-up.

You can avoid this problem by draining your tank on a regular basis. This is pretty easy to do. Most tanks will have a release valve where you can eliminate surplus water and sediment. Check out your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do this safely.

If you are not comfortable draining the tank by yourself, you can hire a plumber. This is easy work, and a plumber will usually do it promptly. You’ll just need to pay their typical hourly rate.

As you consider a new water heater, you’ll have several decisions to make. Not all water heaters are created equal. one decision you’ll need to make is whether you get a tankless water heater or one with a tank.

Both types of heater perform the same basic function. Namely, they supply your household with hot water. They go about it in different ways. A heater with a tank will store a certain capacity of hot water. Usually, this is 40 or 50 gallons. A tankless water heater doesn’t store water. Instead, it quickly heats water on demand, though a system of heating coils.

The average cost of tank-style installation is $1100 for a 40-50 gallon unit. Of course, this can change if you opt for a much larger size. The average cost of a tankless installation is closer to $3,500.

The bottom line: Homeowners depend on functional water heater units. If your water heater goes out, it diminishes your quality of life considerably. Prompt water heater replacement or repair is a must.

Do you have a water heater that needs to be repaired or replaced? Or do you have further questions about the cost of water heater repair work? Contact Carter’s My Plumber to speak with us about repairing your old water heater. Or, ask us about getting a new water heater! We provide water heater repair in Indianapolis, water heater repair in Greenwood, IN, Fishers Indiana, and Carmel Indiana.

A water heater does exactly what its name suggests: It heats water. This water can be used in a home for showering, cooking, and cleaning. A home’s water supply pipe brings cold water into the home. The water enters the water heater, where it is heated and stored before being summoned by a faucet in the kitchen or bathroom. A home without a functioning water heater can be quite uncomfortable—and even dangerous.

That’s why when a water heater needs repair, it’s best not to put it off. According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, water heater repair costs $591 on average, and it can range from a low of $221 to a high of $964. The exact repair cost will depend on the type of water heater, the necessary repairs, any required parts, and labor.

This guide will cover how different repairs affect the final price, whether a homeowner can tackle their own water heater repair, and how to know when a water heater replacement is the better choice when facing a high repair cost.

The total cost of water heater repair depends on a variety of factors, including the repair type, heater type, cost of parts, labor fees, and even geographic location. Homeowners will want to consider the following most influential factors that impact water heater repair cost when working with a contractor for an estimate.

There are different types of water heaters, all with their own unique components. The total cost to repair a water heater is heavily dependent on what type of repair is needed. In some cases, more than one repair may be necessary.

Some types of repairs can be handled by the homeowner, and in these cases, parts typically cost between $10 and $20. Other types of repairs must be handled by a professional who fixes water heaters, and labor costs alone can cost hundreds of dollars.

There are two main types of water heaters, with a storage water tank being the most common. The tank typically holds between 20 and 80 gallons of water, and it’s filled to capacity and heated so hot water is ready on demand. Since this type is continuously heated, associated energy costs can be high. Repairs on a storage water tank have an average range between $150 and $700.

A tankless water heater works differently as it doesn’t rely on a tank. Instead, water is heated as it’s needed. This type of heater is more efficient than a storage water tank but has limits on how much water it can heat at once. It’s also more expensive to purchase, install, and repair. A tankless water heater costs between $300 and $1,300 to repair.

Water heaters have over a dozen components that can require repairs or replacement parts over the years. Units consist of storage tanks, gas valves, heating elements, anode rods, flue pipes, blowers, dip tubes, gas burners, thermostats, mixing valves, and recirculating pumps. As can be expected, each part of a water heater has distinctive pricing. The number and type of replacement parts needed to repair a water heater greatly influence the total repair cost. Small parts can cost $50 or less. But when multiple parts are needed or an entire replacement is necessary, homeowners can expect to pay between $750 and $1,300.

When calculating the cost of water heater repair, homeowners often find that parts are fairly affordable. Some replacement parts can cost as little as $10, but this shouldn’t lead a homeowner to assume a water heater repair cost will be less than the cost of a meal out. While some jobs can be tackled by a homeowner, others require the experience of a professional, which comes at a cost. Labor charges can significantly raise the cost of water heater repair, as most plumbers charge between $45 and $150 per hour. Some repairs or replacements could require the service of an electrician as well; electricians tend to charge between $50 and $100 per hour for water heater repair.

Due to cost variations in parts and labor, geographic location affects the total cost of water heater repair. Repair is the most affordable in Tampa, Florida, where repairs average $539. Chicago, Illinois, also has a fairly affordable average water heater repair cost of $552.

Repairs get a bit more expensive in Los Angeles, California; Houston, Texas; and Denver, Colorado; these areas have an average repair cost range between $618 and $627. Boston, Massachusetts, has among the highest water heater repair costs in the country with an average of $762.

Generally speaking, a water heater repair costs less than a full unit replacement. This may not be true for older units, though. The typical water heater lasts between 8 and 12 years. Repairing a water heater that’s less than 5 years old will most certainly make more financial sense than replacing the unit. But for a unit that’s 10 years or older, a repair might only buy time rather than resulting in a permanent fix.

When determining a budget, homeowners will need to consider whether the repairs will come close to, or exceed, the cost of water heater replacement. While repair costs may initially be less than a replacement, repairing a water heater over and over can end up costing more than the price to replace it.

There are many different components to a water heater. With so many parts, there are a variety of different repairs and repair combinations that a homeowner may be faced with. Some of the following repairs are common, while others are rare. Some are affordable fixes, while others require larger repair budgets. When it comes to water heaters, the one thing all the following repairs have in common is that they can’t be postponed for long.

Water heater leaks need to be handled right away. This is a type of water heater repair that homeowners can rarely handle on their own. A diagnosis from a professional can provide peace of mind and prevent more extensive and expensive repairs.

Sometimes a simple tightening of the leak valve is all it takes to fix a leaking water heater. In other cases, the valve may need to be cleaned and the issue will disappear. But a leak from a water heater can suggest a leak in the tank itself. If this is the diagnosis, the outlook can be quite grim.

A leak in the tank is often from corrosion or other types of damage that can’t be fixed, which means the entire unit will need to be replaced. The cost of a new water heater is between $750 and $1,300.

A pressure relief valve in a water heater helps get rid of excess pressure in the tank. This prevents pressure buildup that can potentially cause a tank to burst and subsequently flood the home. It’s an essential safety mechanism for a water heater, so when it needs to be repaired, the homeowner will want to address it quickly rather than putting it off.

Replacing a pressure relief valve can cost on average between $200 and $300 if hiring a professional, A homeowner can replace their own pressure relief valve with a bit of plumbing experience and a couple of basic tools, and the part alone costs $20. DIYers will need to remember to always turn off the unit, shut off the gas, and let the water cool down before starting a repair.

An anode rod is like a water tank’s bodyguard: It takes the hits from sediment and corrosive elements so that the tank can remain free of corrosion and in tip-top shape. Anode rods aren’t meant to last the entire lifespan of a water heater. With normal usage, an anode rod should be replaced at least once every 5 years.

In homes without recirculating pumps, hundreds of gallons of water a year can go to waste. This is because a recirculating pump circulates hot water, ensuring faucets and showers provide hot water on demand. Otherwise, cool water runs until the hot water from the heater reaches the faucet. Depending on the distance between the faucet and the water heater, it can be several seconds of cool water going down the drain before hot water can logistically reach its destination.

A broken recirculating pump can lead to wasted resources. In fact, a recirculating pump can save a family of four up to 36,000 gallons of water in a year. Replacing a recirculating pump costs between $150 and $680, which can pay for itself in water savings over the years.

A water heater dip tube is an internal pipe that directs cold water to the bottom of the tank where it can be heated. Once warm, the water rises to the top while the dip tube directs more cold water toward the bottom of the tank.

When a home’s water can’t seem to stay very hot throughout the day, a broken or corroded dip tube could be the culprit. The part itself costs only about $10, but if hiring a professional, homeowners can expect to pay about $150 for the part and labor combined.

An expansion tank is a small tank attached to the water supply pipe of a water heater. Its purpose is to handle the thermal expansion of water as it heats up. This prevents excessive water pressure, which can be dangerous.

However, expansion tanks can wear out, so at least one replacement during the lifespan of a water heater is usually inevitable. Expansion tank replacement costs between $100 and $400 for both parts and labor.

Also known as a water heater vent, the flue pipe allows gas exhaust from the water heater to escape safely outside the home. When a flue pipe is damaged, toxic gas can be released inside the home, so repair shouldn’t be put off.

Replacing a water heater flue pipe costs between $100 and $350; the final cost will depend on the pipe’s configuration and length. Material is also important; some flue pipes are made from metal, while others are made from plastic.

It’s common for sediment, or settling matter, to collect at the bottom of a water heater tank. While natural, it’s not healthy for the unit. When sediment builds up too much, a water heater can take longer to heat up or be unable to properly heat the water inside. Popping or rumbling noises from deep inside the tank are also possible as bubbles of hot steam escape the sediment.

A water heater ideally needs to be flushed at least once per year. Failure to do so can lead to leaks, heating element failure, or even a complete loss of the unit. Calling in a professional to flush a hot water heater costs around $200.

A water heater thermostat controls the heating elements within a unit. Homeowners can think of it as a temperature-activated switch, just like the thermostat for a furnace. When a home’s temperature dips below a certain threshold, the thermostat registers and kicks on the furnace. In a water heater, the thermostat can sense when the water temperature goes below its set point. It then energizes the heating elements until the water reaches the set temperature.

A water heater’s thermocouple detects whether or not the pilot light is lit in a gas-powered water heater. When it detects the light is lit, a thermocouple signals the gas control valve to turn on the gas flow. This turns on the burner and heats the water. It should go without saying that the thermocouple is a critical component of a gas water heater, so when it starts to go bad, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Despite the fact that a thermocouple is so vital to a hot water heater, it’s incredibly affordable to replace. Even with labor costs, replacing a thermocouple shouldn’t cost more than $150.

A water heater timer is a small electronic device that can be attached to either a gas or electric unit. It allows a homeowner the option to turn off the water heater at certain times of the day or night. This can help save on gas or electricity costs, especially if a unit isn’t very energy efficient. This is especially true for homes with outdoor water heaters. Cold temperatures make the unit work overtime, so a timer can offer significant savings.

But like any other component, a water heater timer can stop working. A new water heater timer costs between $40 and $140 for just the part. But for the part and labor combined, homeowners can expect to pay between $100 and $350.

Most electric water heaters have two heating elements: one heats from the top while the other heats from the bottom. When they go bad, a few different possibilities could be at play. One potential cause is damaged or slipped wiring, which can be dangerous if ignored.

A faulty heating element could also be caused by a power surge that burns it out, or by mineral buildup coating the element over time and preventing it from heating the water.

The gas control valve in a water heater is an important component. It manages the flow of gas to the water heater. Too little gas and the burner won’t light; too much gas, though, can create a very dangerous situation.

When a gas burner never turns off, it’s a sign a gas valve needs to be replaced. At the same time, cold water despite a lit pilot and correct thermostat settings can signal the burner can’t turn on, which is typically a result of a clogged or bad valve.

A heat exchanger in a tankless water heater has the same function as a heater in a traditional tank water heater. A tankless water heater is activated by incoming water, where the heat exchanger quickly heats up the water before it heads to the appropriate faucet.

Tankless water heaters are more expensive in general, along with their parts. A tankless heat exchanger replacement costs between $600 and $700 for labor alone. Once the part is included, the price tag shoots up to between $1,200 and $1,300. The good news is that manufacturer warranties can cover a tankless heat exchanger for 5 to 12 years, depending on the brand. A year of labor is often covered as well.

Some water heaters use an igniter to ignite the gas. If an igniter fails, a water heater can’t heat up. In many cases, insufficient voltage is the cause of a faulty heater igniter. Sometimes an igniter can be defective, or it can simply wear out over time. Either way, a malfunctioning igniter needs to be repaired or replaced by a skilled technician. Water heater igniter replacement costs between $75 and $350.

Pilot lights are small flames that ignite the gas burner on a water heater. If a pilot light goes out, water inside the tank cannot be heated up. If the water in a house suddenly goes cold, one of the first things a homeowner will want to check is the pilot light. A pilot light is typically located at the base of the unit, below the gas control valve. The flame should always be visible, so if it’s not, it could be an easy fix.

If they feel comfortable doing so, homeowners can try to light the pilot light again. But if there’s a concern about safety or several attempts to relight the pilot light are unsuccessful, a service call might be in order. The average cost for a plumber to inspect and repair a pilot light is between $45 and $150 per hour.

Sometimes a water heater repair is a simple and affordable fix, such as a tripped breaker. When a circuit detects what’s known as a fault condition, it shuts itself off to prevent dangerous overheating. If multiple lights or other electrical devices are also not working in a small radius around the water heater, a tripped breaker is a possible cause.

Regular water heater tune-ups are a great way to preserve a unit and extend its expected lifespan. A water heater tune-up costs between $100 and $500.

Though it varies by provider, tune-ups often include a professional checking for leaks and corrosion; draining and flushing the hot water tank; cleaning the burner assembly and intake filters; replacing the anode rod; testing water temperatures, pressure relief valves, and heating elements; and checking that each faucet in the home is getting hot water.

A freezing-cold shower isn’t always the first sign a water heater is in need of repair. The following are some of the most common symptoms for homeowners to look out for in a malfunctioning water heater.

Fluctuating water temperature could mean a water heater is starting to break down. The most common reason behind this issue is the buildup of mineral deposits inside the tank. It’s normal for mineral deposits to accumulate in a water heater, which is why routine maintenance that involves draining and flushing the tank is important. As these mineral deposits build up, they can cover water-heating elements and keep them from working as needed.

Just as cold water can signal an issue with a water heater, so can excessively hot water. When turning on the hot water in the sink or shower is painful, a water heater inspection is likely necessary.

The water heater’s thermostat could be set to the incorrect temperature. If the water is still too hot after checking the thermostat, the component may need to be replaced. Sometimes a water heater’s pressure release valve can get stuck in the open position. This allows the water to steadily get hotter and hotter as it flows through the system.

A water heater making unusual noises is calling for help. Loud cracks, whining tones, deep gurgles, and surprising pops are all signs that something is going on inside the tank. While it’s perfectly normal for a water heater to make a little noise, unusual noises like these usually mean there’s too much accumulation of mineral deposits inside the tank. Buildup could also be on the heating elements.

Another possibility is that the water heater’s dip tube has broken, causing cold and hot water to mix. A simple flush could be enough to fix the issue, but noises will need to be investigated as soon as possible to prevent damage to the unit’s structure.

Water from the tap, shower, or washing machine should always be clear. While high pressure can sometimes cause tap water to appear hazy, it should turn colorless again once the pressure is even. So when water throughout a home is consistently rusty, discolored, or filled with little dark particles, a faulty water heater is usually to blame. Once again signaling an issue with sediment, water color changes should be addressed quickly as they pose a serious health hazard. Draining and flushing could be enough to fix the issue. But if the inside of a tank is rusty, a replacement could be necessary.

Just as water should be colorless, it should also be odorless. So when a home’s hot water starts to emit strange smells, usually reminiscent of rotten eggs, it’s a strong sign that something is going on with the unit.

Smelly hot water often signals a broken anode rod. An anode rod attracts sediment and corrosive elements, taking on the damage from minerals rather than the tank. Once an anode rod becomes so corroded it can no longer do its job, a tank can start to rust. But if the rod is replaced before it fails (every 5 years, on average), the lifespan of a water heater can be doubled.

When water comes out of faucets and shower heads in weak dribbles instead of strong sprays, low water pressure is to blame. Low water pressure can make it difficult to rinse out hair products in the shower or seriously extend the amount of time it takes to wash a sink full of dishes.

Low water pressure can be caused by corroded plumbing, clogged water pipes, or outdated fixtures (including water heaters). Sediment buildup can also be a cause of low water pressure. This isn’t a warning sign to ignore. Homeowners are advised to call a plumber to diagnose the cause of low water pressure as soon as possible.

Water dripping from a hot water heater or pooling around the bottom of the tank is an emergency. A serious internal failure is usually to blame, and it needs to be addressed by a professional immediately. To minimize potential damage and repair costs, the homeowner will want to quickly (and safely) disconnect the unit’s power supply and turn off the water.

Unfortunately, most leaks require a heater to be replaced rather than repaired. If the unit is older, though, a replacement can make more financial sense, as newer models help reduce energy costs. However, there are some instances where a water leak is the result of a loose screw or connector. Tightening loose parts is a simple and affordable repair.

When a hot water heater starts to act up, homeowners are often tempted to tackle repairs on their own instead of calling in a professional. Although there are some minor repairs that a homeowner can DIY, it’s often worth the extra cost to hire one of the best plumbing services to make sure the issue is addressed promptly and correctly.

Homeowners with a bit of plumbing experience may be able to tackle replacing a faulty dip tube or pressure relief valve. Anode rods and thermocouples are other water heater parts that a homeowner may be able to replace on their own, provided they are comfortable with these parts.

But when a water heater is rumbling, creaking, or popping, the expertise of a professional is likely needed. These symptoms are usually a result of sediment buildup. A homeowner may be able to flush the unit on their own, but this doesn’t always solve the problem. Without proper repairs, a rumbling, creaking, or popping water heater is likely to crack or leak.

Leaks are another water heater issue that needs to be handled by a professional. While a homeowner can turn off the water heater’s power supply and close the main shut-off valve to prevent water flow, these actions just stop the leak from getting worse. A professional needs to evaluate the unit to see if the issue can be solved by just tightening a loose fitting or if a more extensive repair is needed.

Homeowners with plumbing experience can try to troubleshoot their own water heaters or even tackle simple repairs. But calling in an experienced professional ensures a water heater is repaired quickly, correctly, and safely. Even when it comes to an easy repair, the cost of service is worthwhile since it gives a homeowner peace of mind.

With the average water heater repair cost coming in at $591, it only makes sense that homeowners would want to reduce the cost without compromising their water heater’s functions or safety. Luckily, there are a few ways homeowners can save on water heater resources, repairs, and replacements.

Slow down wear and tear on awater heaterby insulating exposed hot water pipes, wrapping the heater in an insulating blanket, and installing low-flow fixtures throughout the home. By reducing water and energy usage, it may be possible to extend the life of the unit.

Repair leaks right away. Unattended leaks won’t get better on their own. They can lead to more extensive and expensive water heater repairs or damage to flooring, drywall, and other materials around the tank.

Consider a replacement over a repair if awater heateris old.While it may cost more money up front to replace rather than repair, energy savings can quickly absorb the extra cost and save money in the end.

Consult with three contractors for awater heater repair. Rather than simply choosing the lowest price, consider what each quote includes and what experience each contractor has. Choosing a contractor based on the value they bring can prevent additional repairs and costly mistakes.

While some water heater repairs can be handled by a homeowner, most will require the experience of a professional. The following are suggested qualifying questions a homeowner will want to ask a contractor before hiring for a water heater repair job.How long have you been in business?

The average water heater repair cost is $591, though more expensive repairs can push the final price as high as $964; simple repairs can cost as little as $221. But whether a water heater repair is on the high or low end of the typical price range, the repair should never be put off. The following frequently asked questions can help homeowners who are wondering about water heater repairs, replacements, and routine maintenance.

Homeowners facing this question will want to consider the 50 percent rule, which states that if any repair costs 50 percent of what the water heater would cost to replace, a replacement makes more sense than a repair.

There can be several reasons a water heater isn’t working. One simple reason could be that the unit isn’t receiving power or gas. A broken thermostat could be to blame, along with pilot light issues. Loss of water pressure may also be the culprit, as can loose or damaged parts and components.

As long as a pilot light is surrounded by combustible air, it should stay lit. When a pilot light is continuously going out, clutter or debris blocking airflow could be to blame. The area surrounding a water heater, especially near the pilot light, will need to be kept as clean as possible.

It depends. A simple repair on a relatively young water heater is usually more affordable than a replacement. But the same repair on a unit nearing the end of its life may not provide much of a return. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that when deciding to repair or replace an old water heater, new models are much more efficient and provide energy savings that may help offset the cost of a new unit.

There are many signs that a water heater is going bad, but one of the most common is a metallic odor coming out of a home’s hot water. This suggests rusty pipes or rust inside the water heater, which can lead to corrosion and inevitable leaks. Cloudy water from the tap can also be a sign of a soon-to-fail water heater. If homeowners notice any of these warning signs, they will want to look into replacing their water heater before it fails.

A traditional storage tank water heater can last between 8 and 12 years. A tankless model can last up to two decades. Routine maintenance can ensure a water heater remains operational for as long as possible. There are some signs homeowners can watch out for that signal when to replace a water heater rather than repair it.

The water heater is known for its high heat and high pressure. The water heater temperature-pressure relief valve (TPR Valve), protects us from this high heat and pressure. So what is the TPR valve, why does it leak, and what should you do about it?

The TPR valve, also called, a pressure relief valve is a specialized valve at your water heater. This valve is typically on the top or side of your water heater.

The valve functions by releasing water if your water heater becomes too pressurized. Since heated water expands, the water heater can become a ticking time bomb if we were to continually build pressure in your water heater.

As seen in the featured image, a TPR valve is required to have a discharge pipe/tube. This tube should be aimed straight to the ground and never go up. This is because hot water will come out of the TPR valve as it releases water. Therefore, extremely hot water should discharge to the ground for safety.

Additionally, if a pipe were to go up, water will have to work against gravity to empty. So, it is possible a slow drip of the TPR valve will collect water in the tubing and ultimately rust out the valve rather than empty it to the floor.

Be one nominal size larger than the size of the relief valve outlet, where the relief valve discharge piping is installed with insert fittings. The outlet end of such tubing shall be fastened in place.

Typically, the solution to this is through a bladder tank, also named an expansion tank. The expansion tank works by allowing more room for the heated water to expand too. Depending on your location and home, an expansion tank might be required by code.

However, if you find the relief valve to continue to leak even after replacement, you should contact a plumber for assistance. A licensed plumber will be able to evaluate your system and decide on installing an expansion tank or other solutions.

If you notice that your hot water heater pressure relief valve is leaking, then it’s time to replace it. Most home improvement stores carry this replacement part and sell it at a reasonable price. In most cases, you can acquire a new water heater pressure relief valve for about $10 to $15. To fix your water heater pressure relief valve leak, follow the steps below.

You’ll now want to empty the water from the tank. You only need to drain the water a little below where the pressure valve is located. An easy way of doing this is to turn on the hot water in either your kitchen or your bathroom. The hot will then begin to drain.However, it’s also important to note that whenever you do any repairs to your hot water tank, as with the pressure valve replacement, it’s good idea to flush your tank and clean out the sediment at the bottom of the reservoir.

Now, release any air pressure that might still be lingering in your tank by raising the handle on the valve. By chance that your water heater has a metal pipe connected to it, you’ll want to remove it.

Equip yourself with a wrench and begin unscrewing the pressure relief valve. You’ll want to unscrew it counter-clockwise. Be extremely careful when you’re removing your faulty pressure relief valve.

If your hot water heater pressure relief valve is still leaking after the replacement, it could be because the valve is releasing some of the extra pressure that has built up within the tank. It’s important to remember that when cold water heats up, it begins to expand. As a result, the excess water will shoot back up the cold-water inlet if there’s not enough room in the reservoir.

The problem is, the water supply piping for your home will most likely have a check valve or a one-way valve imbedded to it. As the water expands and has no place to go, the pressure will continue to build and if left for a long enough period, your tank could explode causing damage to your property.

What’s the solution? Installing an expansion tank is your best answer. An expansion tank provides the water someplace to go when room runs out in the reservoir and should be installed near the water heater tank. In many cases, the expansion tank is installed above the water heater tank.

Water heaters come equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve, also known as a TPRV. This valve allows water or steam to escape from the water heater if the temperature or pressure gets too high. This prevents a water heater from exploding or turning into a missile.

When a TPRV at a water heater leaks, it’s usually a simple fix; just replace the valve. These valves cost less than $15 and replacing the valve is a basic job. There are plenty of videos on YouTube showing how to do this, and the whole project probably won’t take more than fifteen minutes.

If you replace a TPRV and it starts leaking again, it probably means the valve is doing its job; it’s relieving excess pressure. When this happens, the fix gets a little bit more involved, and some troubleshooting is in order.

The TPRV on a water heater is set to discharge at 150 PSI or 210° Fahrenheit.  These numbers will be printed right on the valve, or on a tag attached to the valve.  See below.

If a pressure relief valve for a boiler is accidentally installed on a water heater, it will leak like crazy from the start. These valves may look identical, but they’re set to go off at 30 psi, not 150 psi.

The easiest way to do this is to get a gauge with a garden hose thread, connect it to an outside garden hose faucet, and open up the faucet. If that’s not an option, you can also use the hot or cold spigot for a washing machine. You should expect the pressure to be somewhere in the 40 – 80 PSI range with no other water running. If the pressure is over 80 PSI, it should be corrected. That’s too high for your system. The solution is to have a pressure regulator installed. Get a plumber to do that, as they’ll need to install an expansion tank at the same time. I’ll come back to those in a minute.

If the pressure is within the acceptable range, you probably have an intermittent problem with excessive pressure that can be easily re-created. Go run a bunch of hot water at your plumbing fixtures until you’ve exhausted the hot water supply on your water heater, and keep running the water for another few minutes. If you have several fixtures open, this should only take about ten to fifteen minutes. Now stop running water at all of your fixtures and wait.

You’ve just replaced the hot water in your water heater with cold water, which will cause your water heater to run for a while. This will cause the water to expand significantly until the water heater thermostat is satisfied. That might take about an hour or two. In most situations, this water will expand back out through the cold water inlet, all the way back to the water supply coming into the house. The municipal water supply for the house acts as a gigantic expansion tank… and nobody notices. This is illustrated in the diagram below.

A closed system exists when water can’t leave your house. One way for this to happen is to have a check valve installed on the water supply coming into the home. I don’t see a lot of these in Minnesota, but I do see them periodically.

The other way to create a closed system is to have a pressure regulator installed that contains a built-in check valve. With either of these installed, water can’t leave the house. When water expands and can’t go anywhere, pressure in the system increases. Watch your pressure gauge to verify this. Once the pressure gets to 150 PSI, the TPRV should do its job and leak.

When a closed system exists on the water distribution piping in a home, an expansion tank needs to be installed somewhere on the plumbing system. This is a simple and straightforward fix; an expansion tank will give the water somewhere to go when it expands, and the TPRV on the water heater will stop causing problems.

Expansion tanks are required when a closed system exists, both by water heater manufacturers and by plumbing codes. The Minnesota State Plumbing Code requires an expansion tank when a pressure regulator is installed (608.2):

An approved expansion tank shall be installed in the cold water distribution piping downstream of each such regulator to prevent excessive pressure from developing due to thermal expansion and to maintain the pressure setting of the regulator.

A water system provided with a check valve, backflow preventer, or other normally closed device that prevents dissipation of building pressure back into the water main shall be provided with an approved, listed, and adequately sized expansion tank or other approved device having a similar function to control thermal expansion.

If an expansion tank is already installed and there is still a problem with excessive pressure, you have a problem with the expansion tank. I’ll talk about expansion tanks in next week’s blog post.

I have did everythings you said but my valve still run water when I cut it back on. Even if the valve is cold it still run and have a lot of pressure. What should I do.

Maybe from now recommend turning the main supply line off. Today we changed a relief valve on a heater in an attic. The plumbing had been crossed. The shutoff was on the cold inlet side of the heater but the cold water was coming in to the hot side. Dip tube changed and c and h crossed. Not good is a understatement. Just an idea but thats how I