What can you do with a broken water heater?

Having a broken water heater can be a major inconvenience. Hot water is essential for bathing, washing dishes, and many other daily activities. When your water heater stops working properly, it often requires quick action to get your hot water back as soon as possible. Here are some quick answers to common questions about dealing with a broken water heater.

What are the common signs of a broken water heater?

There are several signs that can indicate your water heater is broken or on its way out:

• No hot water – Turn on your hot water taps and nothing comes out, or the water is lukewarm at best.
• Rusty/discolored water – Water coming from your taps looks dirty, rusty, or discolored.
• Strange noises – You hear odd rumbling, popping, or crackling noises coming from the tank.
• Leaking tank – Water is dripping from the bottom or sides of your water heater tank.
• Faulty temperature/pressure relief valve – The TPR valve is leaking water, a sign it needs replacing.
• Old age – Most water heaters last 8-12 years. If yours is older, it may be failing due to wear and tear.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it likely means your water heater is broken or on the brink of failure.

Should I repair or replace my broken water heater?

Deciding between repairing or replacing your broken water heater depends on a few factors:

• Age of the unit – If your water heater is over 10 years old, replacement may make more sense than repairing an old, inefficient model.
• Cost of repair – Does the repair cost more than half the price of a new heater? Then replacement may be better.
• Availability of parts – Can the necessary replacement parts still be obtained?
• Extent of damage – Major tank leaks or issues indicate replacement as the better option.

Here are some general guidelines on when to repair or replace based on age:

Water Heater Age	Recommendation
1-5 years	Repair, unless the cost exceeds 50% of a new unit
6-10 years	Repair if cost is less than 30% of a new unit
Over 10 years	Replace

Consult with a professional to get an accurate repair/replacement cost estimate for your specific model and issue.

How much does it cost to repair or replace a water heater?

The cost to repair or replace a broken water heater can vary quite a bit based on type, size, features, and more. Here are some rough estimates:

• Electric water heater repair – $200-$500 for a basic heating element or thermostat repair.
• Gas water heater repair – $250-$600+ for control valve, pilot assembly, or burner repairs.
• Electric water heater replacement – $400-$1200 installed for a 40-50 gallon tank model.
• Gas water heater replacement – $600-$1500 installed for a 40-50 gallon standard unit.
• Tankless water heater repair – $300-$1000+ depending on make/model and needed repair.
• Tankless water heater replacement – $1000-$2500+ installed depending on type and features.

Be aware – costs for labor, parts, permits, removal of old unit, and installation will all factor into the final price. Get multiple quotes to find the best deal.

Should I get a tank or tankless water heater?

There are pros and cons to both tank and tankless water heaters:

	Tank	Tankless
Upfront cost	Less expensive	More expensive
Installation	Easier	Can be more complex
Energy efficiency	Less efficient	More efficient
Hot water capacity	Limited by tank size	Unlimited on demand
Lifespan	6-12 years	20+ years
Size needed	Based on family size	Based on GPM rating

In general, tankless heaters cost more upfront but can save money long-term through greater efficiency and longevity. Tanks are good for budget buyers or smaller households. Evaluate both options carefully based on your hot water usage and needs.

Is it safe to use my water heater after a repair?

In most cases, it is safe to start using your water heater again after a proper repair by a professional. However, there are a few precautions to take:

• Make sure all new parts and seals were installed correctly with no leaks.
• Check that all gas or electrical connections were reconnected properly.
• Turn the water heater on and inspect carefully for any new leaks or issues.
• Allow the tank to fully heat up, then check that the hot water temperature is back to normal.
• Flush the tank to remove any sediment or debris that may have collected during the repair.
• If any safety controls like temperature-pressure relief valves were replaced, test to ensure they are functioning.

Provided there are no leaks or other ongoing problems, your water heater should typically be safe to use after repairs by a trained professional. But monitor closely for a few days just to be sure. Contact the repair company immediately if any new issues arise.

How long can I go without hot water?

Here is an estimate of how long you can safely go without hot water in your home:

• 24 hours – Hot water is still convenient for tasks like doing dishes, showers, etc. But you can get by using cold water if needed.
• 48 hours – Going this long without hot water becomes much more difficult. Sponge baths can temporarily replace hot showers.
• 72 hours – Lack of hot water starts becoming a health hazard as sanitation and hygiene become more difficult.
• 1 week – Going this long without any hot water is unsafe. Bacteria can accumulate, and illness can result.

So while you can survive a day or two with just cold water if necessary, any longer than that is highly recommended against. Try to get your hot water restored within 48 hours if at all possible.

How can I have hot water while my water heater is broken?

Here are some options for temporarily getting hot water while your regular water heater is broken or being replaced:

• Small portable camping water heater – Heats about 30 gallons and hooks to sinks via hoses.
• Install an undersink water heater – Provides hot water just to one sink.
• Use electric kettle – Boil water for washing up.
• Visit a friend or neighbor – Shower or do laundry at their place.
• Book a hotel room – Some hotels have low day rates for using the shower/amenities.
• Join a gym – Workout and shower there.
• Heat water on stove – Tedious but works in a pinch.

Tankless or whole-home portable water heaters are also available for rent or purchase if you need more heavy-duty temporary hot water. Discuss options with your plumber or rental companies.

How can I speed up water heater repairs?

It’s understandable to want your broken water heater fixed ASAP. Here are tips for expediting repairs:

• Call for service immediately at first sign of problems – Don’t wait until you have no hot water.
• Be flexible with repair appointment times – Take the first opening rather than waiting weeks for “ideal” time slot.
• Allow easy access to water heater – Clear away clutter so technician can get to it.
• Have model/serial numbers ready – Helps technician bring right parts and tools.
• Approve repairs and provide deposit quickly – The faster you approve work and provide deposit, the faster a technician can be scheduled.
• Allow repairs even on weekends/holidays – Companies often charge extra for off-hours work, but it can speed things up.
• Be available at time of appointment – Missing your repair window can delay the process another day or more.

While repairs cannot always happen instantaneously, taking these steps allows companies to respond, order parts, and schedule technicians faster.

What if I can’t afford an emergency water heater replacement right now?

If your water heater requires full replacement but you can’t afford it immediately, here are some options:

• Repair cheap fixes only – Replace thermostat, heating element, anode rod if under $150-200 to buy some time.
• Finance through home improvement loan – Spreads out payments over months/years.
• Use credit card – Puts charges on your card to pay back over time.
• Enroll in manufacturer warranty program – Covers full replacement cost for monthly fee.
• Rent a portable unit short-term – Buys a few weeks to save up for permanent replacement.
• Ask family for help – Borrow money from parents/relatives and repay them.
• Use tax refund – If it’s early in the year, filing ASAP can provide funds within weeks.

Weigh payoff time vs interest charges for any financing option. Get quotes from multiple plumbers and lenders to find the best terms. And get the cheapest temporary fix or rental to minimize the time you’re without hot water.

What do I do if my water heater leaks or floods my house?

If you discover your water heater leaking or flooding your home, take these steps immediately:

1. Turn off power/gas to water heater if safe to access.
2. Shut off the main incoming water valve to stop water flow.
3. Call emergency plumbing service for urgent repairs.
4. Use towels to soak up leaking water.
5. Move furniture, rugs, valuables out of flooding path.
6. Remove soaked drywall, carpets, paneling if needed to prevent mold.
7. Run dehumidifiers and fans to dry out any soaked areas.
8. Contact insurance company to file a claim if damage is extensive.

Speed is critical to stop water damage from a leaking heater spreading. Even 5 more minutes of leaking can mean way more destructive flooding. So take immediate action if faced with this emergency.

Can I install a new water heater myself?

Installing a new water heater on your own is possible, but not always advisable. Here are some things to consider:

• Size/weight – Large tanks over 50 gallons can be very heavy and unwieldy.
• Gas vs electric – Gas carries risk of fire and explosion if connections aren’t perfect.
• Venting – Improper venting of exhaust can result in carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Permits – Your city may require an inspection and permit for new installs.
• Expertise needed – Plumbing, electrical, gas line expertise is a must.
• Saving money – DIY savings mostly just the cost of labor.

Given safety risks, complexity, and need for expert skills, most homeowners are better off hiring professional installers unless you have extensive experience yourself.

How can I extend the life of my water heater?

Regular maintenance is key for getting the longest lifespan out of your water heater. Try these tips:

• Drain sediment – Annually flush tank and drain valves.
• Replace anodes – Replace sacrificial anodes every 3-5 years.
• Lower temperature – Set heat below 120°F to reduce mineral buildup.
• Install catch pan – Prevents damage if small leaks occur.
• Check pressure valve – Ensure TPR valve test releases water.
• Insulate pipes and tank – Reduces standby heat loss.
• Replace old units – Once over 10 years, replacement prevents failures.
• Water softener – Reduces scale-causing minerals.

With proper maintenance like draining, anode replacement, and keeping mineral buildup in check, you can maximize the working life of your water heater.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken water heater can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. But knowing your repair or replacement options, costs, and how to speed up the process can help you get your hot water back quickly and painlessly. With some preventive maintenance, you may also be able to extend the life of your next water heater and avoid premature failures. Just be sure to take any signs of leaks seriously, as water damage can create even bigger headaches. Follow these tips to make resolving your broken water heater issue as smooth and hassle-free as possible.