Water Heater Repair: Jackson, MI
Professional HVAC & Plumbing Specialist's For Over 40 Years
Water Heater Repair Services in Jackson, Michigan
Your water heater is one of the most essential systems in your home. It uses an energy source, such as electricity or fuel, to heat water and deliver a continuous supply of hot water at a set temperature. When choosing a water heater, consider factors such as:
- Fuel type: The energy source impacts the water heater’s size, efficiency, and annual operating costs.
- Size: A correctly sized water heater ensures enough hot water for your household while maximizing efficiency.
- Energy efficiency: Comparing different models can help you choose one that offers the best savings.
If you need water heater repair services, Aspen One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Jackson, Michigan is here to help. Call today to schedule your repair service!
Water Heater Repair Information Center
Tips From The Jackson, Michigan Water Heater Repair Experts
Whether you’re facing inconsistent temperatures, leaks, or complete failure, our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix the issue quickly, restoring comfort to your home.
How Do I Know if My Water Heater Needs Repair?
A properly functioning water heater is essential for daily activities like showering, cooking, and cleaning. When issues arise, they can disrupt your routine and, if left unaddressed, lead to costly repairs or replacements. Here are the key signs that your water heater may need professional repair:
1. Inconsistent or No Hot Water
If your water heater isn’t providing consistent hot water or none at all, it could be due to:
A faulty heating element in electric water heaters
A malfunctioning gas burner or pilot light in gas water heaters
A broken thermostat that isn’t regulating water temperature correctly
If adjusting the thermostat doesn’t help, a professional should diagnose and fix the issue.
2. Strange Noises
Loud banging, rumbling, or popping sounds indicate sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, this sediment hardens, making your heater work harder, leading to inefficiency and possible damage. Flushing the tank can help, but if the problem persists, repairs may be necessary.
3. Water Leaks
Any visible water around your water heater could mean a loose connection, a broken valve, or a crack in the tank. Small leaks should be repaired quickly before they turn into major water damage. If the tank itself is leaking, replacement may be required.
4. Rusty or Discolored Water
If your hot water appears rusty, brown, or has an unusual smell, it could mean:
Corrosion inside the tank
A failing anode rod, which protects the tank from rust
Sediment contamination
A professional can inspect the system and determine if flushing the tank or replacing the anode rod will fix the issue.
5. Water Takes Too Long to Heat
If it takes longer than usual for your water to heat up, your unit may have a worn-out heating element, gas supply issues, or excessive sediment buildup. Delayed heating can strain your system, increasing energy bills and reducing efficiency.
6. Fluctuating Water Temperatures
If your water randomly shifts from hot to cold, your thermostat, heating element, or dip tube (which directs cold water to the bottom of the tank) may be failing. These components can often be repaired without replacing the entire unit.
7. Foul Smell from Hot Water
A rotten egg or sulfur-like smell in your hot water often means bacterial growth inside the tank, particularly if you have well water. Flushing the system or replacing the anode rod can resolve this issue.
8. High Energy Bills
A sudden increase in your gas or electric bill may indicate your water heater is working inefficiently, possibly due to sediment buildup, a failing thermostat, or a deteriorating heating element.
When to Call a Professional
If your water heater shows any of these signs, a licensed plumber or HVAC technician can diagnose and repair the issue. Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank and checking the anode rod, can help prevent costly breakdowns. If your water heater is over 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?
Deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater depends on several factors, including the unit’s age, the severity of the problem, and repair costs. Here’s a guide to help you determine the best course of action.
When to Repair Your Water Heater
If your water heater is experiencing minor issues that can be easily fixed, repair is often the most cost-effective solution. Consider repairing if:
Your Water Heater is Less Than 10 Years Old
Most traditional tank water heaters last 8-12 years, while tankless models can last 20+ years. If your unit is relatively young and the issue is minor, a repair is usually the best option.
The Repair is Relatively Inexpensive
If the repair cost is less than 50% of a replacement, fixing it may make more sense. Common affordable repairs include:
Replacing the thermostat ($100–$300)
Fixing a heating element ($150–$350)
Flushing sediment buildup ($75–$200)
You Have a Leak from a Valve or Connection
If the leak is coming from a loose drain valve, pressure relief valve, or pipe fitting, it can often be repaired. However, a leak from the tank itself cannot be repaired and requires replacement.
The Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit (Gas Water Heaters)
If the pilot light keeps going out, the thermocouple or gas control valve may need replacement—both of which are relatively inexpensive repairs.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Sometimes, replacing your water heater is the better long-term solution. You should consider replacement if:
Your Water Heater is Over 10-15 Years Old
If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing it is a smarter investment, as old water heaters lose efficiency and are more prone to breakdowns.
You Notice Rusty Water or Corrosion
If your hot water looks brown or rusty, it could mean the tank is corroding from the inside. Once a tank starts rusting, there is no way to repair it, and a new unit is needed.
You Have Frequent or Expensive Repairs
If you’ve had multiple repairs in the past year, or if a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new unit, replacement is the better option.
Your Tank is Leaking
A leaking tank means the inner lining has deteriorated, and the only solution is a full replacement.
Your Water Heater is Inefficient and Raising Energy Bills
If your energy bills are increasing, your water heater may be struggling to keep up. Upgrading to a high-efficiency model, such as a tankless water heater, can reduce energy costs.
Final Decision: Repair or Replace?
Repair if your unit is under 10 years old, the issue is minor, and the repair cost is reasonable.
Replace if the unit is over 10-15 years old, has major issues like a leaking tank or frequent breakdowns, or if the repair cost is too high compared to a new unit.
If you’re unsure, a professional plumber or HVAC technician can inspect your system and help you decide on the best course of action.
Why Choose Us?
At Aspen One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, we are dedicated to being the trusted heating, cooling, air quality and generator experts, and have been for over 40 years. We serve all of Jackson County and many surrounding areas and our team works hard to ensure our customers get exactly what they need. From using top-of-the-line equipment to making sure our team is well-trained, we strive to provide 5-star service each and every time. Call us today to schedule your service to find out why we have earned a reputation of integrity and quality work.
- In Business Since 1981
- Family Owned & Operated
- Free Estimates On Installations
- Low Interest Financing Available
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- Available 24/7
- Licensed & Insured
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Financing
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Aspen One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
- 4131 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49202
- Phone: (517) 879-2049
- Fax: (517) 750-0900
- Available 24/7
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