Residential Water Heater Problem Repair And Reviews

Question: I have a water heater that is dripping quite quickly and i think i need to purchase a new one. should i call?

(Posted by: Michelle on 2010-03-07 12:04:26)

I have a water heater that is dripping quite quickly and I think I need to purchase a new one. Should I call a plumber or try to purchase one from a big box store (Lowes, Home Depot) and have them install it. I live in a small house with only one other person and I don't need anything fancy. I'd like to do this home repair as efficiently as possible and spend as little money as is required. Any ideas? Any help would be very appreciated. Thanks.

Posted by: chabbycat on 2010-03-07, 12:14:00

First of all, is the water heater leaking from the actual tank in an area that looks like it's going to burst? If so, I would shut off the water source to the heater & go to Lowe's or Home Depot to get a new one installed. You are better off avoiding a plumber over the weekend, especially on Sunday...The rates will be enormous. If the heater is leaking around the pipes & the connections, then I would at least attempt to tighten them up myself. If this were to fail, then I would hire a plumber to do so, on a weekday, during the day. I hope that this helps you out...Best of luck to you...

Posted by: tinman97prn on 2010-03-07, 12:10:05

You are probably going to get a better price at Lowes..The best idea is to collect the info needed, tank size, type (gas or electric) and simply call. Most places will quote over the phone. Before they do the work, get the quote in writing.

Posted by: PAUL on 2010-03-07, 12:19:33

Where is it leaking? Is it just leaking out the pressure relief? (that's the tube that's goes down the side of the tank towards the floor, and releases pressure/ water built up in the tank. If that's the case just replace the relief as the sometimes fail. If the tank is leaking from the tank itself, replace the tank. FYI- Home depot and lowes use sub-contractors, which is not always the best option

Posted by: Vaughn on 2010-03-07, 12:51:51

First depending on where it is leaking it could be a possible danger. have a qualified plumber install a new one then have a home inspector check it

Posted by: J45 on 2010-03-07, 14:17:27

Hi dear I am plumber, if you live around plano I may can check your water heater for free,

Posted by: 18 gibbs 20 on 2010-03-07, 17:00:04

Find either a local plumber your neighbors can recommend or a handyman with the same proviso. It's a simple job for either of them to replace a water heater. If you don't know anyone by reputation then go to one of the box stores like Home Depot.