FAQ
Straight answers
If your question isn't here, call us — you'll get the same no-nonsense answer on the phone.
How do I know if my water heater needs replacement?
If your heater is over 10–12 years old, leaking, or repair quotes exceed half the cost of a new unit, replacement is usually the smarter move. We'll inspect it on the first call and give you both options.
What's the cost difference between tank and tankless?
Tankless units cost more upfront but run smaller, last longer, and use less energy; tank heaters are cheaper initially but need replacement more often. We'll walk you through the trade-offs on your estimate.
How long does a replacement take?
Most tank replacements take 2–4 hours; tankless installations may run 4–6 hours depending on your home's gas and water lines. We'll give you a time window before we arrive.
Do you also handle tank water heater replacement?
Replace a failing traditional tank water heater with a new unit. Haul away the old one, install, test, and restore hot water.
What size water heater do I need?
Size depends on household size, usage, and recovery time. A tech will check your current unit and recommend a replacement based on your needs.
How long do tank water heaters last?
Most last 10–15 years; Reno's hard water can shorten that to 8–10 years. Maintenance helps, but age and sediment eventually require replacement.
Will the new tank fit where my old one is?
Most replacements fit in the same spot, but if your old unit is oversized or in a tight space, we may need to adjust. We'll check on arrival and let you know.
Do you handle both gas and electric water heaters?
Yes, we install standard tank units and tankless systems for both gas and electric. Our crew is trained on all common models and brands.
Will you pull the necessary permits?
We handle permitting as part of the job; it's included in the estimate. This protects you if you ever sell and ensures the work meets Reno code.
What if my old water heater is still under warranty?
We can help you file a warranty claim if repair is still an option, or we'll remove the old unit and install the new one as part of replacement.
My water heater is leaking. Is it fixable or should I replace it?
Small leaks at fittings or the relief valve can often be fixed; leaks from the tank itself usually mean replacement. We'll inspect it first and explain your options on the phone.
How much does a typical repair cost?
Repair costs depend on the problem—a new thermostat or valve might run $200–500, while a larger job could cost more. We give you the estimate before starting work.
Can you repair tankless water heaters?
Yes, we service both tank and tankless systems. Tankless repairs often involve descaling, control board issues, or venting problems.
Do you charge extra for emergency service?
We offer emergency response as part of our standard service; you pay the repair cost, not an inflated emergency fee. Call to confirm availability.
What time do you answer emergency calls?
We take calls and dispatch for urgent issues; response time depends on demand. Let us know the problem when you call so we can prioritize.
What if the repair is expensive? Can I wait until Monday?
If you can live without hot water, that's your call. We'll tell you upfront what the fix costs so you can decide whether to do it now or schedule for business hours.
Why did my water heater suddenly stop heating?
Common causes are a failed thermostat, a tripped reset button, a broken heating element, or a pilot light going out. We diagnose it on-site.
Is a reset button fix a quick call or does a tech need to visit?
If it's a reset button, we may walk you through it over the phone; if it's a heating element or thermostat, we'll send a tech. Either way, we'll confirm before charging a visit fee.
What if it's the gas line or ignition?
We check gas flow and ignition systems on-site. If it's a ventilation or safety issue, we'll explain what needs to happen and give you an estimate.
How often should I flush my water heater?
Most tank units benefit from a flush every 1–2 years, depending on your water quality. Reno's mineral-heavy water means sediment builds faster, shortening the unit's life.
What does a maintenance visit include?
We flush the tank to remove sediment, check the relief valve, test temperature and pressure, and inspect for corrosion or leaks. It takes about an hour.
Can maintenance prevent me from needing a replacement?
Regular maintenance extends tank life by 2–4 years and keeps the unit running efficiently. It won't fix a unit that's already failing, but it catches problems early.
Can I switch from a tank to tankless without major renovations?
Sometimes; it depends on your gas line size, venting route, and water pressure. We assess this before the estimate and let you know if upgrades are needed.
Are tankless units really more efficient?
Yes, they heat water on demand instead of keeping a tank hot all day, which cuts energy use by 20–30%. The payback period depends on your usage and local utility rates.
Do tankless systems need more maintenance?
They require descaling annually in hard-water areas like Reno to prevent mineral buildup. We can set up a maintenance schedule.
What counts as a plumbing emergency?
Active leaks, burst pipes, no water in the home, and sewage backups are emergencies. We respond to these faster than routine repairs.
Can you fix the problem the same day?
Most emergency stops—isolating the leak, clearing a blockage—happen same-day. Permanent fixes may need a follow-up if parts or permits are required.
Do I pay extra for emergency response?
You pay for the repair and labor; there's no hidden emergency surcharge. Call to confirm availability and get a timeframe.
What's the difference between a simple clog and a main-line blockage?
A simple clog is one sink or shower; a main-line blockage affects multiple fixtures. We can tell the difference on arrival and scope out the problem.
Is drain cleaning destructive to old pipes?
We assess your pipe material and condition first. For older pipes, we use gentler methods; for sturdy lines, we use hydro-jetting or mechanical cleaning.
What causes drains to get blocked?
Hair, soap buildup, food debris, and grease are common in kitchens and bathrooms; roots and sediment cause main-line problems. Knowing the cause helps prevent repeat blockages.
Hot water when you need it.
No hot water? We install, replace, and repair water heaters. Most calls same-day or next morning.