Water heater replacement in St. Paul, MN

Why your water heater matters

You use hot water every day for showers, laundry and dishes. According to the Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of your home’s energy use. That makes it one of the largest energy expenses in most homes.

When a water heater fails, it rarely gives much notice. A tank that starts leaking can damage floors, walls and stored belongings. Replacing an aging unit on your own schedule is far easier than replacing one after it floods the basement.

Sized for your household

A water heater that is too small runs out of hot water. One that is too large costs more to buy and to keep hot. We recommend a unit that matches how much hot water your family actually uses. We also look at the fuel and venting you already have.

For a tank water heater, the key number is the first-hour rating. The Department of Energy explains how to size a new water heater by your peak-hour demand. Estimate the hot water your household uses in its busiest hour, then choose a tank that meets or exceeds that number. Our guide to water heater size and first-hour rating walks through the math.

A tankless unit is sized differently. Its size depends on the flow rate of fixtures you run at once and how much the cold incoming water must be heated. Minnesota’s cold incoming water makes that second number an important part of the decision. See our tankless water heater page for details.

Tank, tankless or heat pump

A standard storage tank keeps a supply of water hot and ready. A tankless unit heats water only when you open a tap. Switching from a tank to a tankless unit usually involves more installation work than a like-for-like replacement. Our tank vs. tankless guide for Minnesota compares the two.

A heat pump water heater moves heat from the surrounding air into the water. The Department of Energy says heat pump water heaters can be two to three times more efficient than conventional electric resistance models. They need a space that stays between 40°F and 90°F year-round, with at least 1,000 cubic feet of air around them.

Repair or replace?

Age is the first thing to check. Once a tank water heater is about 10 years old or more, replacement usually makes more sense than repair. The model and serial number on the label can tell you its age. Read more in how long water heaters last.

Rust-colored hot water, water pooling under the tank, and rumbling or popping sounds are all warning signs. A leak from the tank itself usually means the tank has corroded through and must be replaced. Leaks from a fitting or valve can often be repaired instead. Regular flushing and anode rod checks help a tank last.

Leaks, gas and other safety warnings

If you smell gas near your water heater, leave the house right away. Do not flip light switches or use your phone inside. Once you are safely away, call 911 and Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-2999. If another company supplies your gas, call the number on your gas bill.

If the tank is leaking, shut off the cold water supply valve at the top if you can reach it safely. Then turn off the gas or the power to the unit and call for service. Keep children and pets away from standing water near any electrical outlet.

Never cap, plug or remove the temperature and pressure relief valve. If it drips or discharges, have a technician find the cause. Leave gas lines, venting and electrical connections to a professional.

Installed safely and to code

A new water heater often needs more than a direct swap. Depending on the unit, the job may include new venting, a larger gas line or added electrical capacity. We install each unit to current code and test it before we leave.

If you want to spread out the cost, ask about our financing options for new equipment. You can also request a water heater estimate online.

Signs your water heater is failing

• It is about 10 years old or more
• Water is lukewarm or runs out quickly
• Energy bills are rising without a change in use
• Rusty water or leaks around the tank
• Rumbling or popping sounds from the tank
• The relief valve drips or discharges water

Common questions

Sources

• U.S. Department of Energy — Water Heating
• U.S. Department of Energy — Sizing a New Water Heater
• U.S. Department of Energy — Heat Pump Water Heaters