It’s a feeling that everyone dreads. Realizing that you have no hot water? When you need a water heater repair, you want it done fast, and right the first time. Homeowners are often unaware of a problem with their water heater until they run out of hot water or they discover a leak. Then the head begins to spin ” Oh No ” I have to call a plumber! Visions of salty plumbing pirates drifting up in to your drive way, so courteous at the front door until you open the garage door and then with a hardy Har-Har there goes your summer vacation. At weekend Water Heater we have retired the “Jolly Roger” We give all our customers multiple options to fit customer budgets. We understand, this is an unexpected, unwelcome expense, we know its important to offer budget friendly options as well as financing for water heater repairs and replacements.Lets take a look at some of our favorite water heaters:
Bradford White
As a licensed plumbing contractor with over 30 years in the trade, I’ve worked with virtually every major water heater brand on the market. Bradford White consistently stands out as one of the most reliable and well-built options for residential and light commercial applications.
Build Quality & Design:
Bradford White units are American-made and built with longevity in mind. The internal components are durable, and the tanks come equipped with their proprietary Vitraglas® lining, which offers excellent protection against corrosion. From a technician’s standpoint, these units are thoughtfully designed, making installation and maintenance straightforward.
Performance:
Bradford White water heaters deliver steady, consistent hot water and recover quickly—even under high-demand conditions. Whether it’s gas or electric, their units heat efficiently and maintain temperature well, which translates into better energy performance and customer satisfaction.
Support & Warranty:
The company offers solid warranty coverage, and their technical support team is knowledgeable and easy to work with. Because Bradford White products are sold through licensed professionals only, you won’t find them in big-box stores, which helps maintain quality control and ensures proper installation.
Drawbacks:
The main drawback some homeowners note is the higher upfront cost compared to retail brands. However, in my professional experience, the long-term reliability and reduced maintenance calls more than make up for the initial investment.
Final Verdict:
Bradford White is a top-tier choice for anyone looking for a dependable, high-performance water heater. I confidently recommend them to my clients who want a product that will last, perform well, and be backed by strong professional support.
Rheem
I’ve installed and serviced a wide variety of water heaters, and Rheem remains one of the most versatile and popular brands on the market—for good reason.
Product Range & Accessibility:
Rheem offers one of the most comprehensive lines of water heaters out there, from traditional tank models to high-efficiency tankless units and hybrid electric heat pump systems. They’re widely available, which makes them a convenient option for both homeowners and contractors who need fast, reliable replacement solutions.
Performance & Efficiency:
Rheem models are known for delivering solid performance and energy efficiency. Their higher-end models, especially the Performance Platinum line and their EcoNet-enabled smart heaters, are great for homeowners who want more control over energy use. Their heat pump water heaters are among the most efficient in the industry.
Ease of Installation & Service:
From a plumber’s standpoint, Rheem units are generally straightforward to install and work on. The layout of components is intuitive, and replacement parts are readily available. Rheem’s tankless water heaters also offer features like built-in re-circulation pumps and self-diagnostics, which are a big plus during service calls.
Customer Support & Warranty:
Rheem provides decent warranty options, typically 6 to 12 years depending on the model. Their customer support is responsive, though sometimes navigating warranty claims can be a bit bureaucratic compared to premium, contractor-only brands.
Drawbacks:
The trade-off with Rheem being mass-market is that quality can vary slightly between product tiers. The units sold through retail channels aren’t always built to the same standards as the professional-grade versions. Also, in harder water areas, regular maintenance is a must to prevent scale buildup—particularly on tankless models.
Final Verdict:
Rheem water heaters offer a strong balance of affordability, performance, and innovation. I often recommend them for homeowners who want a dependable and feature-rich product without jumping into the high price range. Just make sure to choose the pro-grade models and have them installed by a qualified plumber to get the most value and reliability.
A.O. Smith
I’ve worked with A.O. Smith products for years—and I can confidently say they’re a solid, well-engineered choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Build Quality & Reliability:
A.O. Smith water heaters are known for their durability and consistency. Whether it’s their standard tank models, energy-efficient hybrids, or tankless units, the craftsmanship is reliable. The tanks have a solid glass-lined interior that helps resist corrosion, and their anode rods tend to hold up well, which helps extend the lifespan of the units.
Innovation & Efficiency:
Rheem models are known for delivering solid performance and energy efficiency. Their higher-end models, especially the Performance Platinum line and their EcoNet-enabled smart heaters, are great for homeowners who want more control over energy use. Their heat pump water heaters are among the most efficient in the industry.
Ease of Installation & Service:
From a plumber’s standpoint, Rheem units are generally straightforward to install and work on. The layout of components is intuitive, and replacement parts are readily available. Rheem’s tankless water heaters also offer features like built-in re-circulation pumps and self-diagnostics, which are a big plus during service calls.
Customer Support & Warranty:
Rheem provides decent warranty options, typically 6 to 12 years depending on the model. Their customer support is responsive, though sometimes navigating warranty claims can be a bit bureaucratic compared to premium, contractor-only brands.
Drawbacks:
The trade-off with Rheem being mass-market is that quality can vary slightly between product tiers. The units sold through retail channels aren’t always built to the same standards as the professional-grade versions. Also, in harder water areas, regular maintenance is a must to prevent scale buildup—particularly on tankless models.
Final Verdict:
Rheem water heaters offer a strong balance of affordability, performance, and innovation. I often recommend them for homeowners who want a dependable and feature-rich product without jumping into the high price range. Just make sure to choose the pro-grade models and have them installed by a qualified plumber to get the most value and reliability.
A.O. Smith
I’ve worked with A.O. Smith products for years—and I can confidently say they’re a solid, well-engineered choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Build Quality & Reliability:
A.O. Smith water heaters are known for their durability and consistency. Whether it’s their standard tank models, energy-efficient hybrids, or tankless units, the craftsmanship is reliable. The tanks have a solid glass-lined interior that helps resist corrosion, and their anode rods tend to hold up well, which helps extend the lifespan of the units.
Innovation & Efficiency:
A.O. Smith has been a leader in water heating innovation. Their Voltex® Hybrid Electric Heat Pump is one of the most energy-efficient models on the market, and their tankless line offers great space savings and on-demand performance. The ENERGY STAR® ratings on many of their units make them a smart option for homeowners looking to cut down utility bills.
Installation & Service:
Installation is generally straightforward—especially with their residential tank models. The tankless systems can be a bit more involved (as with most brands), but they’re well designed and offer diagnostic features that make troubleshooting easier. Parts availability is good, and A.O. Smith provides solid technical documentation and support.
Warranty & Support:
Warranties typically range from 6 to 10 years, and their customer support has been dependable in my experience. When registered and installed by a professional, these water heaters often go the distance without major issues.
Points to Consider:
While A.O. Smith makes excellent equipment, not all models are equal. Units sold through plumbing wholesalers are generally more robust than those found at big-box stores. I always recommend customers go with pro-grade versions, especially for long-term peace of mind.
Final Verdict:
A.O. Smith offers reliable, efficient, and professionally supported water heaters at competitive prices. They’re a brand I regularly recommend to clients who want performance, quality, and good value—especially if installed and maintained properly. Whether you’re upgrading from an old unit or building new, A.O. Smith is a safe and smart choice.
Navien Tankless
As a licensed plumbing contractor who regularly installs tankless water heaters, I can confidently say that Navien stands out as one of the top-tier brands in the tankless market—especially for homeowners looking for long-term efficiency, advanced technology, and dependable performance.
Performance & Efficiency:
Navien’s condensing tankless models—particularly the NPE-Advanced and NPN series—deliver outstanding energy efficiency, with Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings often exceeding 0.95. Their dual stainless steel heat exchangers are highly resistant to corrosion and thermal stress, which extends the unit’s lifespan and improves reliability under heavy use.
Features & Technology:
Navien is a leader in innovation. Their ComfortFlow® recirculation system, available on some models, includes a built-in buffer tank and recirculation pump, virtually eliminating cold water sandwiching and reducing wait times. Their Wi-Fi-enabled NaviLink™ module allows homeowners to monitor and control their unit remotely—a great feature for tech-savvy clients or those managing vacation homes.
Installation & Serviceability:
Noritz units deliver consistent, on-demand hot water and are particularly well-suited for medium to large households. Their condensing models, like the NRC and EZ Series, offer high energy efficiency with UEF ratings over 0.90, helping homeowners reduce both gas usage and utility bills. Flow rates are competitive, and they handle simultaneous demand well when properly sized.
Build Quality & Innovation:
Noritz water heaters are engineered with commercial-grade heat exchangers, and their stainless steel construction in key models offers superior durability and corrosion resistance. The brand also embraces tech-forward features like Wi-Fi compatibility (with the Noritz Connect adapter) and intuitive remote controllers for precise temperature settings.
Installation & Maintenance:
From an installer’s point of view, Noritz is easy to work with. Their EZ Series is designed to replace traditional tank heaters with minimal repiping, making them ideal for retrofits. The units are compact and light compared to some competitors, and venting options (including flexible concentric and dual-vent setups) provide flexibility during installs. Descaling and annual maintenance are straightforward, thanks to their clean design and accessible service ports.
Support & Warranty:
Noritz offers a 12-year warranty on the heat exchanger, along with 5 years on parts and 1 year on labor. They also provide strong technical support and offer contractor training resources that are very helpful in the field. Replacement parts are generally easy to source.
Things to Note:
Noritz isn’t as widely recognized among homeowners as brands like Rinnai or Navien, but that doesn’t reflect on performance. It’s more of a “professional’s brand”—high quality without the heavy marketing. As with all tankless units, proper water treatment is key in hard water areas to protect the heat exchanger and ensure longevity.
Final Verdict:
Noritz is a rock-solid choice for homeowners who want a reliable, high-efficiency tankless water heater. It’s a brand I frequently recommend to clients who prioritize performance, longevity, and clean installation. If installed and maintained correctly, a Noritz system will provide years of worry-free hot water.
Yes, you can repair a water heater. If a Gas water heater is not leaking from the tank, you can repair it. If the unit is not heating there may be a problem with the gas control valve or an issue with the burner Assy. Both can be replaced. Electric water heaters have an elements and thermostats that can be replaced. Tankless water heaters have a large number of parts that can be replaced by our service Techs at Weekend Water Heater. some people assume replacement over the phone without really diagnosing the problem. Its true, the majority of the time, the water heater will need to be replaced, however the issue should always be fully diagnosed before you throw in the towel.
Can you repair a water heater?
When do you need to replace your water heater?
You should consider replacing your water heater if it’s over 10–15 years old, especially if it’s showing signs of wear. Common indicators include inconsistent or insufficient hot water, strange noises (like rumbling or banging), rust-colored water, or water pooling around the base of the unit. An increase in energy bills can also signal that your water heater is losing efficiency. Even without obvious problems, replacing an older unit with a newer, more efficient model can save energy and reduce costs in the long run. Weekend Water heater recomends repacing it before it becomes a problem, the last ting a homeowner needs is a leak that causes secondary damage to the home. Its also a good idea to replace the water heater when you are trying to sell your home. Head off issues before a home inspector dings you for it.
How much does it a water heater repair job cost?
The cost of a water heater repair job typically ranges from $150 to $600, depending on the issue and the type of water heater you have. Minor repairs, like replacing a thermostat or heating element, tend to be on the lower end—around $150 to $300. More complex problems, such as a leaking tank or faulty gas control valve, can push the cost closer to $500 or more. Labor rates, parts availability, and whether your heater is electric, gas, or tankless can also affect the total price. For an accurate estimate, it’s best to get a professional assessment.
What is the most common cause of water heater failure?
The most common cause of water heater failure is sediment buildup inside the tank. Over time, minerals—especially in areas with hard water—settle at the bottom of the tank. This layer of sediment can reduce heating efficiency, cause strange noises, and eventually lead to overheating and tank damage. If not regularly flushed out, the sediment buildup can corrode the tank and lead to leaks or complete failure.Another culprit in the early demise of water heaters is water treatment systems, water softeners in particular. Salt water will wreck a water heater tank. Most high quality water softeners have very little problem with this but, unfortunately, most people opt for cheaper softeners more likely to have issues. If you happen to turn your water on during the softener regeneration cycle, BAM you have salt water in your water heater tank. I advise all my customers with a water softener to flush there heater at least once a year and have the anode rod inspected every other year.One of the major brands has been having trouble with their digital gas control valve. for the last couple of years we have seen a large up tic in gas valve warranty calls on water heaters form the big box stores. The manufactures have responded to the issue by offering short labor warranties on the heaters however, the labor warranty will expire before projected issues with the gas valve ( 2 to 3 years in my experience ) so plan on being stuck with a labor bill to replace the gas valve later. To be fair, the problem has been supposedly rectified. oxygen failures are common with the sealed combustion chamber. Heaters installed in attic spaces tend to start having issues when the temp goes over 110 degrees fahrenheit. You may need to run a dedicated fresh air vent to the heater base to make sure the unit stays lit.
Regular maintenance, like annual flushing, can significantly extend the life of your water heater.
Would you like tips on how to prevent this or signs that sediment is becoming a problem?
Who to call when water heater is not working?
Call the Weekend Water Heater Guys. We’ll deliver same day service.
When your water heater fails, you need a reliable, efficient, and trustworthy service to restore your home’s comfort. Weekend Water Heater, based in Hutto, TX, has garnered exceptional reviews for their professionalism, responsiveness, and quality workmanship. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 45 reviews on Thumbtack , customers consistently praise their prompt service and expertise.AngiThumbtack
One satisfied client noted, “Jack was AMAZING. So easy to work with and he was right on time. His work is clean and professional. Highly recommend. He replaced a gas water heater. Very happy with the installation.” Another shared, “Tim and Jack were extremely responsive to our needs and willing to take the time to explain all options, provided valuable expertise and quality work.” Weekend Water Heater
Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their consistent 5-star ratings across multiple platforms, including Angie’s List . Whether it’s a repair or a full replacement, Weekend Water Heater ensures the job is done efficiently and professionally.
For dependable water heater services in the Round Rock and Hutto areas, consider reaching out to Weekend Water Heater. Their track record speaks volumes about their dedication to quality and customer care.