When it's an emergency vs. when it can wait
A tank that's actively leaking, spraying water, or has flooded the floor is an emergency — shut off the cold-water supply valve at the top of the heater and call right away. The same goes for any gas smell, a relief valve that keeps discharging, or scalding-hot or rust-colored water. Running cold for a day on an electric unit is less urgent, but a burst 40- or 50-gallon tank can put dozens of gallons on your floor fast, so don't sit on it.
What to do before we arrive
If water is actively leaking, keep people away from wet electrical areas and close the accessible cold-water inlet or main shutoff only if you can do so safely. For an electric unit, use the correctly labeled breaker only from a dry, safe location. If you smell gas, leave immediately without operating switches, flames, phones, or the appliance and call the gas utility or 911 from outside. Do not drain or disassemble the heater while waiting for service.
Repair or replace — the honest call
Age alone does not decide the repair. A tank leaking through its body generally requires replacement, while a serviceable connection or component may be repairable. We identify the leak or failure source, review the tank condition, parts, installation, history, and replacement requirements, then explain the available scope and price before you decide.
What can contribute to heater failure
Sediment, scale, corrosion, installation, and use vary by heater and property. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for flushing, filters, and anode inspection where applicable. We assess the actual unit and do not promise a fixed life extension from any single maintenance step.
How Pipedex handles it
We're licensed, insured, and run 24/7 emergency service, so you can call anytime about a tank that lets go at 11 p.m. or over a holiday weekend. Our technicians are professional and careful in the home, and clean up after themselves — including hauling off your old unit. You'll get pricing approved before work starts, whether it's a repair, part swap, or full tank or tankless replacement sized right for your home.
Signs it’s time to call
- No hot water at all
- Water leaking or pooling under the tank
- Rusty, brown, or cloudy hot water
- Popping or rumbling noise from the tank
- Rotten-egg or gas smell near the heater
- Water that's suddenly scalding hot
