Expert Water Heater Service in Lancaster, PA
Are you running out of hot water halfway through your shower? Not only is that a huge inconvenience, but it’s also a clear sign your water heater might need some professional attention. Reliable hot water is a must here in Lancaster, where no one wants to wake up to a sudden icy cold shower.
Our Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical team has kept water hot and homeowners happy since 1904. From quick repairs to energy-saving replacements, we’ve covered all your hot water needs.
Enjoy reliable hot water again, and schedule a water heater service in Lancaster today.
Signs You Need Water Heater Services
Outside of having no hot water, it can be challenging for homeowners to tell when it’s time to call in the help of a professional. Here’s what to look out for:
- Not enough hot water: This often means sediment buildup, a tired thermostat, or a heating element on its last leg.
- Water temperature fluctuates: If your water fluctuates between hot and cold, you could have a thermostat or element issue.
- Strange noises: Rumbling or popping sounds usually mean sediment settles and hardens in your tank.
- Leaks or moisture around the tank: A puddle near your water heater isn’t just annoying. It might signal tank failure or a slow leak.
- Discolored or smelly water: Rust-tinted water or a rotten egg smell can indicate corrosion or bacteria growth in the tank.
- Old age of water heater: Once your water heater hits the 10- to 15-year mark, it may be time to retire the unit before it quits on you.
Comprehensive Water Heater Solutions
At Lancaster Plumbing & Heating, we don’t just fix problems. We help prevent them. Our water heater services are designed to keep your system running smoothly and your showers stress-free with these services:
Water Heater Installation & Replacement
Do you need a new water heater? From traditional tanks to sleek, high-efficiency tankless units, our water heater installations ensure your system is calibrated perfectly to fit your lifestyle.
Water Heater Repair
Are you dealing with leaky tanks, stubborn thermostats, or busted elements? Our team has seen it all. If you’re dealing with an emergency, we have water heater repairs to get things back on track without delay.
Water Heater Maintenance
Keep your system humming with yearly checkups, which include flushing the tank, cleaning the burners, and swapping out anything past its prime. Routine water heater maintenance helps catch issues early, preventing them from becoming bigger problems.
Tankless Water Heater Installation & Repair
Are you ready to ditch the bulky tank and enjoy ongoing hot water? Tankless water heaters are compact, efficient, and perfect for homes that need hot water on demand. We offer tankless water heater services for both residential spaces.
Why Choose Lancaster Plumbing & Heating for Water Heater Services?
When your water heater starts acting up, you want someone who knows what they’re doing. That’s what you get with Lancaster Plumbing & Heating. We’ve served the Lancaster community for over 120 years, providing fast and reliable water heater services. Every technician is background-checked and trained to deliver the kind of service you’d expect from a friendly, welcoming professional.
Schedule a water heater service for your Lancaster home today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heaters
Here are answers to common questions about water heater service in Lancaster County, PA. Contact Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electrical at your convenience with any more questions.
What size water heater do I need for my home?
Sizing depends on how many people live in the home, how many bathrooms you have, and when you use hot water most. For tank water heaters, capacity in gallons matters. For tankless water heaters, flow rate matters, especially when multiple fixtures run at once. A plumber can help match the right size so you get steady hot water without paying for more system than you need.
What temperature should my water heater be set to?
Many homes do well with a temperature setting around 120 degrees. It is usually hot enough for showers and dishes while helping reduce scald risk and energy use. If you have a dishwasher that needs hotter water, a high demand household, or specific health considerations, a technician can help you choose a safe setting that fits your needs.
Why is my hot water pressure low in just one faucet or shower?
If cold water pressure is fine but hot water pressure is weak at one spot, it is often a clogged aerator, a partially closed shutoff valve, or buildup inside a fixture cartridge. If multiple fixtures are affected, it can point to plumbing issues like aging pipes, a failing pressure regulator, or buildup in the hot water lines. A water heater service call can confirm whether the issue is the heater, the plumbing, or the fixture itself.
What is a water heater anode rod, and why does it matter?
An anode rod helps protect the tank from corrosion by attracting minerals that would otherwise attack the metal lining. When the rod is worn out, tanks can rust faster and may start leaking sooner. Checking the anode rod is a helpful way to extend the life of a tank water heater, especially in areas with harder water in and around Lancaster County.
How long does it take for a water heater to heat up after it runs out?
Recovery time depends on tank size, fuel type, and the heater’s input rating. Gas units often reheat faster than electric, but every setup is different. If recovery is suddenly slower than normal, it can point to issues like a failing element, gas control problems, or scale buildup that reduces efficiency.
What's the difference between a tank and a tankless water heater?
Tank water heaters have a large storage tank where heated water is stored. Tankless water heaters heat water as it is needed, without having a storage tank. This allows them to be more energy-efficient and take up less space.
How long does a water heater last?
Most traditional models last about 10 to 15 years. Tankless systems often last longer with proper care.
How do I know if my water heater needs to be replaced?
Inconsistent hot water, frequent repairs, visible leaks, and units over a decade old are worth a closer look.
How often should I maintain my water heater?
We recommend once a year. It keeps things running smoothly and extends your system’s life.