Water Heater Repair Arlington
Waking up to a cold shower ranks among the most frustrating household problems Arlington homeowners face. When your water heater stops working, everything from morning routines to washing dishes becomes a challenge. J Rowe Plumbing has served Arlington, Texas since 1984, earning recognition as the best water heater repair company in Arlington through four decades of honest service and expert workmanship. Our team has built this reputation one repair at a time, consistently delivering results that keep families comfortable in their homes.
Our licensed plumbers diagnose and fix all types of water heater problems. Whether you have a gas water heater making strange noises or an electric water heater that produces lukewarm water, our team arrives with the tools and parts needed to complete most repairs in a single visit. We work on traditional tank units throughout Arlington and surrounding communities, restoring hot water quickly so your household can return to normal.
Emergency Water Heater Repair for All Arlington Neighborhoods
J Rowe Plumbing provides water heater repair service throughout Arlington, TX. Our technicians know the area well and arrive prepared to solve your water heating problems efficiently.
Arlington Areas We Serve
Our service coverage includes all Arlington neighborhoods and surrounding communities:
- North Arlington and Viridian
- South Arlington
- East Arlington
- West Arlington
- Central Arlington near UT Arlington
- Arlington Entertainment District
- Lake Arlington area
- Pantego
- Dalworthington Gardens
- Arlington Highlands
- Interlochen
- Country Club Manor
Wherever you are located in Arlington, our plumbers can reach you quickly when hot water problems arise.
Serving Arlington's Older Homes
Many Arlington neighborhoods contain homes built decades ago with original plumbing systems. Older hot water heaters in these homes often need more frequent attention as components wear out. Our experience with aging systems helps us diagnose problems quickly and recommend solutions that work within your budget.
Water heaters in older Arlington homes may face challenges including:
- Outdated gas connections that need updating
- Sediment accumulation from years of use
- Corroded anode rods that no longer protect the tank
- Insufficient capacity for modern household demands
- Worn-out thermostats and heating elements
Whether your home was built in the 1960s or last year, J Rowe Plumbing has the expertise to keep your hot water flowing reliably.
Common Hot Water Heater Problems We Fix
Water heaters develop issues for many reasons. Age, mineral buildup from Arlington's water supply, and component wear all contribute to performance problems. Understanding what might be wrong helps you communicate with our technicians and make informed decisions about repair versus replacement.
The most frequent water heater troubleshooting calls we receive involve these issues:
- No hot water coming from faucets or showers
- Water temperature fluctuations during use
- Hot water runs out too quickly
- Strange noises like popping, rumbling, or banging from the tank
- Water pooling around the base of the unit
- Rusty or discolored hot water
- Pilot light that keeps going out on gas units
- High energy bills related to water heating
- Rotten egg smell in hot water
- Reduced water pressure from hot water lines
- Water heater leaking from top connections
- Tank making whistling or screeching sounds
Each symptom points to specific component failures or maintenance needs. Our technicians perform thorough diagnostics before recommending any water heater service, ensuring you only pay for repairs your system actually needs.
Gas Water Heater Repair Services
Gas water heaters remain popular in Arlington homes because they heat water quickly and cost less to operate than electric units in most cases. However, they require specialized knowledge to repair safely. J Rowe Plumbing holds both a Responsible Master Plumbing License and a Category D Propane License, qualifying our team to work on natural gas and propane water heating systems. Common gas water heater repairs include:
Thermocouple and Pilot Light Issues
The thermocouple serves as a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is burning. When it fails, your gas water heater cannot ignite the main burner to heat water. Pilot lights that frequently extinguish often indicate thermocouple problems, though drafts or gas supply issues may also be responsible. Our plumbers test the entire ignition system to identify the root cause.
Gas Valve Problems
The gas valve controls fuel flow to your water heater. A malfunctioning valve may prevent the burner from lighting, cause inconsistent heating, or create safety hazards. Gas valve repair and maintenance requires precision work from qualified technicians who understand these components.
Burner Assembly Cleaning and Repair
Over time, dust and debris accumulate on the burner assembly, affecting flame quality and heating efficiency. A dirty or damaged burner produces uneven heating or fails to reach proper water temperature. Cleaning and adjusting the burner assembly restores efficient operation.
Venting System Inspection
Gas water heaters produce combustion gases that must vent safely outside your home. Blocked or damaged venting creates carbon monoxide risks and prevents proper operation. We inspect venting systems during every gas water heater service call to ensure your family's safety.
Electric Water Heater Repair Services
Electric water heaters offer simplicity and eliminate concerns about gas leaks or combustion venting. They do require their own specific repairs when problems develop. Arlington homeowners with electric water heaters commonly need these services:
Heating Element Replacement
Most electric water heaters contain two heating elements. When one fails, you might notice that hot water runs out quickly or the unit produces only lukewarm water. Complete element failure results in no hot water at all. Replacing heating elements restores full function and is one of the most common electric water heater repair jobs we perform.
Thermostat Repair and Calibration
Electric heaters use thermostats to monitor water temperature and signal when heating elements should activate. Faulty thermostats cause temperature inconsistencies, overheating, or complete loss of hot water. Testing and replacing thermostats requires understanding the electrical systems in these units.
Reset Button and High Limit Switch
The high limit switch acts as a safety feature that shuts off power if water temperature exceeds safe levels. When this switch trips repeatedly, it indicates underlying problems that need professional diagnosis. Simply resetting the button without addressing the cause leads to continued issues and potential safety hazards.
Electrical Connection Inspection
Loose wiring, corroded connections, and circuit problems affect electric water heater performance. Our technicians inspect all electrical connections during residential water heater repair calls, identifying issues that might cause future failures.
Water Heater Maintenance for Arlington Homeowners
Preventive care extends the life of your water heater and reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Arlington's water contains minerals that accumulate inside your tank over time, creating sediment that reduces efficiency and can damage internal components.
Regular water heater maintenance includes:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Tank flushing | Annually | Removes sediment buildup that reduces efficiency |
| Anode rod inspection | Every 2-3 years | Prevents tank corrosion and extends unit lifespan |
| Temperature and pressure valve test | Annually | Ensures safety valve functions correctly |
| Thermostat check | Annually | Verifies accurate temperature control |
| Visual inspection for leaks | Monthly (homeowner) | Catches problems early before major damage |
| Burner inspection (gas units) | Annually | Ensures clean, efficient combustion |
J Rowe Plumbing recommends checking your TMP valve (temperature and pressure relief valve) annually. This safety component releases excess pressure from the tank, preventing dangerous situations. Testing it yourself is simple, but if it fails to operate properly, schedule professional water heater service immediately.
Emergency Water Heater Repair in Arlington
Some water heater problems cannot wait. A leaking tank, gas smell, or complete loss of hot water during cold weather requires immediate attention. J Rowe Plumbing provides emergency services for Arlington residents facing urgent water heating situations.
Signs you need emergency water heater repair:
- Water actively flooding from the tank or connections
- Gas odor near your water heater
- Hissing or spraying sounds from the pressure relief valve
- Burn marks or scorching on or around the unit
- Complete hot water loss during freezing temperatures
- Water heater making loud banging or knocking sounds
Our trucks stay fully stocked with common repair parts, allowing our technicians to resolve many emergency situations in a single visit. When Arlington homeowners face water heater emergencies, fast response prevents water damage and restores household function quickly.
When Water Heater Replacement Makes More Sense Than Repair
Not every water heater problem should be repaired. Sometimes replacing the unit makes better financial sense than continuing to fix an aging system. Our technicians provide honest assessments to help you make the right choice for your situation.
Consider replacement water heater installation when:
- Your water heater is more than 10-12 years old
- Repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit's price
- The tank shows visible rust or corrosion
- You have needed multiple repairs within the past year
- Energy bills have increased significantly
- The tank leaks from the bottom (internal corrosion)
- Hot water capacity no longer meets your household needs
J Rowe Plumbing installs Rheem water heaters, known for reliability and efficiency. When repair water heater costs approach replacement value, we explain your options clearly so you can make an informed decision. We also offer financing to help manage the cost of new water heater installation when replacement becomes necessary.
Understanding Water Heater Repair Cost Factors
Every water heater repair involves different variables that affect the final price. Being transparent about cost helps customers make confident decisions about their home water heater repair needs.
Factors that influence water heater repair service costs include:
- Type of repair needed (minor adjustment versus major component replacement)
- Parts required and their availability
- Gas versus electric unit (gas repairs often require additional safety procedures)
- Age and condition of the existing system
- Accessibility of the water heater location
- Whether emergency service is required
J Rowe Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work. Our technicians carry easy-to-read price guides that show costs for common repairs, eliminating surprises when the job is complete. This approach lets you compare options and choose the solution that fits your budget.
Why Arlington Homeowners Choose J Rowe Plumbing
Since 1984, J Rowe Plumbing has built a reputation for honest, reliable plumbing service in Arlington, Texas. Our commitment to customer satisfaction shows in the awards and recognition we have received from the Arlington community.
Credentials That Matter
- Responsible Master Plumbing License #37068
- Category D Propane License for gas water heater work
- Viega ProPress Certification
- Gastite Certification
Community Recognition
- Best of Arlington 2023
- Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorites (2021 and 2023)
- Certain Path 20 Year Membership
Service Commitments
When you call J Rowe Plumbing for water heater repair services, you receive:
- Response to service requests within 5 minutes
- Convenient 2-hour scheduling windows (not all-day waits)
- Technicians with fully stocked trucks to complete most repairs immediately
- Upfront pricing before work begins
- Financing options for larger repairs or replacements
- Job satisfaction guarantee on all work performed
Our team of licensed plumbers handles both residential water heater repair and commercial water heating needs throughout Arlington. With five service trucks and a team of experienced technicians, we have capacity to respond to your local water heater repair needs without long wait times.
What We Have Learned from 40 Years of Water Heater Repairs in Arlington
Four decades of repairing water heaters in Arlington homes has taught us things you cannot learn from a manual. Every year, we see the same preventable problems and the same warning signs that homeowners miss. Here is what our experience has shown us about keeping water heaters running in this area.
Arlington Water Takes a Toll on Water Heaters
The water in Arlington contains minerals that accelerate sediment buildup inside tanks. We have opened water heaters in older Arlington neighborhoods and found two to three inches of calcium and lime deposits coating the bottom of the tank. This sediment acts like insulation between the burner and the water, forcing the unit to work harder and shortening its lifespan significantly. Homeowners who flush their tanks annually avoid this problem almost entirely. Those who skip this maintenance often face premature tank failure.
Garage Installations Create Specific Challenges
Many Arlington homes have water heaters installed in garages. During our rare but intense freezes, these units face temperature extremes that water heaters in climate-controlled spaces never experience. We have responded to countless emergency calls the morning after a hard freeze where garage-installed water heaters failed because the pilot light blew out from cold drafts or inlet pipes froze. If your water heater sits in the garage, insulating the inlet and outlet pipes and ensuring proper draft protection can prevent these failures.
The 8 to 10 Year Reality
Manufacturer warranties often suggest water heaters last 12 years or more. Our experience in Arlington tells a different story. With our local water conditions and the demands placed on these systems, we typically see tank water heaters reach the end of their reliable service life between 8 and 10 years. Units pushed beyond this point tend to develop multiple problems in quick succession. When a water heater passes the 8-year mark, we recommend budgeting for replacement rather than investing heavily in repairs.
Warning Signs Most Homeowners Miss
After thousands of service calls, we have learned to spot trouble before it becomes an emergency. A water heater that takes noticeably longer to recover after heavy use is often showing early signs of element or burner problems. Tiny amounts of rust in hot water, easy to dismiss as nothing, frequently indicate anode rod failure that will lead to tank corrosion within a year or two. A slight increase in your gas or electric bill related to water heating often means efficiency has dropped and components are struggling. Catching these signs early saves money compared to waiting for complete failure.
The Mistake We See Most Often
The most common mistake Arlington homeowners make with their water heaters is ignoring the temperature and pressure relief valve. This safety device prevents tank explosions by releasing pressure if temperature or pressure exceeds safe levels. We have found valves corroded shut, valves with discharge pipes routed incorrectly, and valves that have never been tested in the life of the water heater. Testing this valve once a year takes less than a minute and could prevent a dangerous failure.
Why Some Water Heaters Last Longer Than Others
After four decades of observing which water heaters last and which fail early, clear patterns emerge. Units installed with proper expansion tanks experience less stress and fewer component failures. Water heaters with adequate clearance for airflow and maintenance access tend to receive better care over their lifetime. Systems where homeowners address small problems quickly rather than waiting for complete failure consistently outlast neglected units. The water heater itself matters less than how it is installed and maintained.
Seasonal Water Heater Considerations in Arlington
Texas weather creates unique demands on water heating systems. Understanding seasonal factors helps Arlington homeowners prepare for potential issues and schedule preventive maintenance at optimal times.
Winter Freeze Preparation
Arlington occasionally experiences freezing temperatures that stress water heaters and connected plumbing. During cold snaps, water heaters work harder to maintain temperature as incoming water arrives colder than normal. This increased demand can reveal weaknesses in aging components.
Before winter arrives, consider scheduling water heater maintenance to ensure your system operates efficiently when you need it most. Checking connections, inspecting the pilot light system on gas units, and flushing accumulated sediment prepares your water heater for increased demand.
Summer Considerations
While summer brings less strain on water heaters, it offers an ideal time for maintenance and repairs. Scheduling service during slower periods often means faster appointment availability and time to address any issues before winter demand increases.
Hot water usage patterns also change in summer. Households may use less hot water for bathing but increase usage for cleaning and outdoor activities. If you notice changes in your water heater performance during any season, scheduling a diagnostic visit prevents small problems from becoming expensive repairs.
Other Water Heating Options
For homeowners interested in upgrading to a more efficient system, tankless water heaters provide an alternative to traditional tank units. These systems heat water on demand rather than maintaining a stored supply, which can offer energy savings for some households. J Rowe Plumbing can help you evaluate whether a tankless system makes sense for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Heater Repair
How much does water heater repair cost in Arlington?
Water heater repair costs in Arlington vary based on the type of repair needed, parts required, and whether you have a gas or electric unit. Simple repairs like thermostat adjustments or element replacements cost less than major component failures. J Rowe Plumbing provides upfront pricing before any work begins, so you always know the cost before we start the repair.
Should I repair or replace my water heater?
Consider replacing your water heater if it is more than 10-12 years old, requires frequent repairs, shows signs of tank corrosion or rust, or no longer heats water efficiently. If your unit is newer and the repair is minor, fixing it usually makes more financial sense. Our technicians will give you honest recommendations based on your specific situation.
Do you offer emergency water heater repair in Arlington?
Yes, J Rowe Plumbing provides emergency water heater repair services for Arlington residents. We understand that losing hot water creates an urgent situation for your household. Our fully stocked trucks allow us to handle most emergency repairs quickly, often in a single visit.
Why is my water heater not producing hot water?
Several issues can cause a water heater to stop producing hot water. Common causes include a faulty thermostat, broken heating element on electric units, pilot light problems on gas units, sediment buildup in the tank, or a tripped reset button. A professional diagnosis identifies the exact problem so the correct repair can be made.
How long does a water heater repair take?
Most water heater repairs take between one to three hours depending on the complexity of the issue. Simple fixes like thermostat replacements or element swaps are completed quickly. More involved repairs requiring part ordering may take longer. Our technicians arrive with fully stocked trucks to complete most repairs in a single visit.
What brands of water heaters do you repair?
J Rowe Plumbing repairs all major water heater brands including Rheem, AO Smith, Bradford White, State, Whirlpool, and GE. We also service tankless units from Rinnai and Navien. When replacement parts are needed, we use quality components that meet or exceed manufacturer specifications.
How often should I flush my water heater?
Flushing your water heater annually removes sediment buildup that reduces efficiency and shortens the unit lifespan. Arlington's water contains minerals that settle at the bottom of the tank over time. Regular flushing as part of water heater maintenance keeps your system running efficiently and can prevent costly repairs.
What areas of Arlington do you serve?
J Rowe Plumbing serves all Arlington neighborhoods including North Arlington, South Arlington, East Arlington, West Arlington, Pantego, Dalworthington Gardens, the Entertainment District, and areas near UT Arlington.
Schedule Your Water Heater Repair Today
When your water heater stops working properly, you need a plumber who responds quickly and fixes the problem right the first time. J Rowe Plumbing has provided trusted water heater repair service to Arlington homeowners for over 40 years. Our licensed technicians arrive in fully stocked trucks, ready to diagnose your problem and restore your hot water.
Do not settle for cold showers or inefficient water heating. Contact J Rowe Plumbing today to schedule your water heater service appointment. With 2-hour scheduling windows, upfront pricing, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we make getting your water heater repaired as convenient as possible.
Whether you need routine water heater maintenance, emergency repair for a leaking unit, or honest advice about whether to repair water heaters or replace them, our team is ready to help. Arlington residents trust J Rowe Plumbing for all their water heating repair needs because we deliver reliable service with integrity every time.



