Water Heater Repair
There are very few things that are as indispensable in our homes as a water heater. This life-saving device is used throughout the day for various purposes such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, and space heating. No matter the type or brand of heater you use, it has surely proven itself reliable and made your life easier.
However, water heaters are not perfect. After years of using your water heater, it might start malfunctioning and put you in a very difficult position. This malfunction can disclose itself in various ways. Some of the issues you might face include:
- Water leaking
- No or not enough hot water
- Water is too hot or takes a long time to heat
- Low hot water pressure
- Defective pilot
- Smelly or Rusty hot water
Waking up to one of these problems can ruin your day. Not having hot water in your house or having a leaking heater is a terrible thing to experience. This misfortune affects your daily routine, your personal hygiene, your bills, and much more.
If you are facing one of these issues and you don’t know what the problem is or what to do, have no fear because our plumbing experts handle it with ease. Give us a call and we will dispatch a qualified specialist to help you out.
Things to know
What causes a water heater to malfunction?
Several factors are responsible for the failure of a water heater. Some factors such as corrosion, clogged vents, bad gas valves, faulty thermostats, condensation, broken or damaged dip tubes and many more can affect the good functioning of your water heater.
Can The 5 Star Plumbing deal with all types and brands of water heaters?
We have experience with all types and brands of water heaters. Our specialists are well trained, certified and capable of fixing whatever you might face with your water heater. So no matter the type or brand of your water heater, give us a call and we will fix it. We do both electric water heater repair and gas water heater repair. Here are some of the types and brands of water heaters we take care of:
- Traditional Tank Water Heater
- Tankless Water Heater
Brands:
- A.O Smith
- G.E
- Kenmore
- Rheem
- Whirlpool
- Bradford white
- Ecosmart
- Heat pump
- Rinnai
- And lots more.
Should I repair my water heater or buy a new one?
Don’t rush to buy a new water heater. The problem that your water heater faces might be insignificant and replacing it would be a waste of money. First, let one of our skilled plumbers diagnose what the issue is and then he will tell give you our honest advice and recommendations.
How much will it cost and how long will it take to repair my water heater?
The duration and price of the repair will depend on the type of water heater, the age of the water heater, the extent of the problem and much more. However, our well-trained plumbers are fast and they will fix the issue rapidly with their expertise.
Do Not Hesitate
If you are facing any issue with your water heater give us a call. No matter where you are in Los Angeles, Torrance, or San Diego, we’ll be at your doorstep as soon as possible.
Water Heater Repair Los Angeles Guide: Signs, Causes and Next Steps
This guide to water heater repair in Los Angeles covers the warning signs, common causes, repair vs. replacement, and the local code rules that apply, whether you’re in Los Angeles, Pasadena, Santa Monica or Long Beach.
Warning signs
- No hot water, or hot water that runs out much faster than before
- Water around the base of the tank (diagnosing a leak from the bottom)
- Popping or rumbling sounds, usually sediment (what each noise means)
- Rusty water or a rotten-egg smell (odors and discoloration)
- A pilot light that won’t stay lit, or a tankless error code
If you smell gas, don’t relight the pilot. Leave the area and call your gas utility or 911 from outside.
Common Causes by Water Heater Type
- Gas: a worn thermocouple or flame sensor, a faulty gas control valve, a dirty burner or a blocked flue.
- Electric: burned-out heating elements and failed thermostats.
- Tankless: mineral scale, clogged inlet filters and venting faults (see tankless water heater repair and tankless water heaters).
- Any tank: sediment, a depleted anode rod or a failing T&P relief valve; a routine water heater flush helps.
Repair or Replace?
The U.S. Department of Energy says storage water heaters last 10 to 15 years and tankless models about 20. Repair usually makes sense for a younger unit with one failed part. Replacement is often better when the tank itself leaks, the unit is near the end of its life, or repairs keep adding up. See how long water heaters last and water heater replacement.
Los Angeles Code Basics: Straps and Permits
California requires all new, replacement and existing residential water heaters to be braced, anchored or strapped against earthquake movement (Health and Safety Code §19211). In the City of Los Angeles, replacing a gas water heater in a single-family home generally needs a plumbing permit, unless a contractor in the LADBS Certified Licensed Contractor program does a like-for-like swap (LADBS). Other LA County cities set their own rules.
What Affects Water Heater Repair Cost
Cost depends on the failed part, the unit type, its age and access. For national context, Angi reports an average repair cost of $616, with most homeowners paying $228 to $1,017 (2026 data). These are national averages, not The 5 Star Plumbing’s prices. For more, read our water heater repair costs guide, or visit our contact page with questions.
Sources: U.S. Department of Energy; California Health and Safety Code §19211; LADBS permit FAQ; Angi, “Cost to Repair a Hot Water Heater” (updated Aug 2026).
Water Heater Repair FAQs
How long does a water heater last?
The U.S. Department of Energy says storage (tank) water heaters last 10 to 15 years and tankless models about 20 years. Regular flushing and anode rod checks help a unit reach the upper end of that range.
Why is my water heater making popping noises?
Usually sediment at the bottom of the tank. Water trapped under it boils as the unit heats, causing popping or rumbling. Flushing often helps; if the noise continues, have the unit inspected.
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
It depends on the source. A drip from a fitting or relief valve can often be repaired, but a leak from the tank itself usually means replacement. Shut off the heater’s water supply and its gas or power until it’s checked.
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
Common causes are a worn thermocouple or flame sensor, a dirty pilot, drafts or a faulty gas control valve. If you smell gas, don’t relight it: leave and call your gas utility or 911 from outside.
Does my water heater need earthquake straps?
Yes. California Health and Safety Code §19211 requires residential water heaters to be braced, anchored or strapped to resist earthquake movement.