Who Fixes Water Heaters and When to Call for Help

A water heater is something that you don’t think about until it’s broken. When it malfunctions, knowing who fixes water heaters and when to call for help can save you time, money, and frustration. Ignoring water heater problems can increase the cost of repairs — or even lead to you needing a complete system replacement. Jason Hawes has more information for you in this video. 

This guide will help you determine who to call for water heater repairs, whether it’s a plumber, electrician, or HVAC technician. We’ll also go over when DIY troubleshooting might be an option.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

Recognizing water heater problems early can prevent major damage and extend the lifespan of your unit. Here are some common signs that your unit needs attention:

• No hot water or inconsistent water temperatures
• Unusual noises like popping or rumbling
• Rusty or discolored water
• Water leaks around the unit
• Low water pressure when using hot water
• A constantly running or frequently tripping circuit breaker

If you’re experiencing these issues, you don’t have to call a professional right away. First, try basic steps for troubleshooting water heater problems like checking the thermostat, making sure the pilot light is on, or resetting the breaker. Often, these can get things back to normal.

But if these don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to seek expert help.

Do Plumbers Fix Water Heaters?

Yes, licensed plumbers are typically the go-to professionals to call for water heater repair. They handle:

• Installation and replacement
• Leak detection and repair
• Issues with water supply lines and connections
• Tank flushing and maintenance

However, if your problem lies with the electrical connections or gas line, you may need to call in someone else instead. For example, if your water heater isn’t getting power or if the gas burner isn’t igniting, an electrician or HVAC technician may be a better choice.

When to Call an Electrician or HVAC Technician

While plumbers handle most water heater issues, you may need an electrician if your unit has:

• Faulty wiring
• Keeps tripping the breaker
• Won’t power on

HVAC technicians, on the other hand, can handle problems with:

• Heat pump units
• Boiler-based units
• Tankless or hybrid units

If you’re unsure who to call, start with a plumber. They can diagnose the issue and refer you to an electrician or HVAC expert if necessary.

DIY Water Heater Troubleshooting: What You Can Do First

Before scheduling a service call, you can try to tackle your water heater problems yourself. Here’s a quick guide on how to fix a water heater:

• Check the thermostat: Ensure it's set to an appropriate temperature (typically 120°F)
• Inspect the pilot light: If you have a gas heater, relight it if it’s out
• Reset the unit: Many water heaters have a reset button to restart the system
• Check the breaker: For electric units, make sure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped

While these steps may resolve minor issues, avoid DIY repairs involving gas lines, electrical wiring, or major components. These always require a professional’s expertise.

When to Call a Professional: Key Takeaways

If your water heater is leaking, making loud noises, or failing to provide consistent hot water, don’t wait — call a professional. A plumber is the best first step, but for electrical or HVAC-related issues, you may need a specialist.

Not sure who to call? Start with Roto-Rooter. We’re available 24/7/465 to solve all of your water heater problems. Schedule a water heater inspection today and get expert help before small issues turn into big problems.