Indianapolis Water Heater Repair
Reliable Water Heater Repair in Indianapolis, IN
Are you unsure if you need to repair your water heater? Waiting too long to repair it could lead to water damage to your home.
It can be tricky to find out whether you need to repair it or replace it. As a general rule of thumb, consider replacing your unit if it’s between 6 to 12 (or more) years old. In some cases, water heaters that are well over that age group work just fine – but make sure you book regular maintenance checks to avoid surprise breakdowns.
B&W is your one-stop-shop for water heater repair or water heater installation. Here is some more information about common signs that mean your home’s Indianapolis water heater may have a problem.
Common Water Heater Problems
Water heaters work all day long to provide you with heated water whenever you need it. With such heavy use, these units can be expected to malfunction sometimes, especially when they’re around a decade old.
Here are some common water heater issues:
- Rust-colored water: This means that the sacrificial anode rod failed, causing the tank to start rusting. It can also mean that your glass-lined heater tank is corroding, which can also cause ruptures or leaks.
- Not enough or no hot water: If there’s not enough hot water, that could be caused by thermostat failure, an obstructed flue or vent, or a faulty dip tube. If there’s no hot water, it might be that the pilot light is off and the thermocouple feature is preventing gas delivery.
- Water takes longer to heat: Irregular water temperature could be due to the diameter of the piping or the flow rate of the water.
- Foul-smelling water: Water heater tanks contain sediment and bacteria. As the bacteria begin to die, they release hydrogen gases that pass through your plumbing and spread a foul odor throughout your home.
- Noises from the tank: This means that the heating components of the tank have a lot of scale buildup.
- Leaks: Leaking water might be due to faulty plumbing connections, a leaking heating element gasket, excessive corrosion in the storage tank, or a faulty T&P valve.
- Low hot water pressure: Hard-water buildup in your pipes can block water flow into and out of your heater.
- Mineral buildup and corrosion: If too much sediment builds up at the bottom of your hot water heater, it can cover the heating element and cause it to overheat and burn out.
Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?
Water heaters usually last between 10 and 15 years. But how do you know if your unit is due for a full-on replacement versus a minor repair? Choose a repair if the cost of the repair is less than 50% of the cost of a replacement.
Even if your hot water heater is past the age group mentioned above, it still may be in decent condition. Unless the tank is starting to deteriorate, you may be able to repair it. As always, consult a B&W professional so we can help you accurately assess the damage in your Indianapolis home.
Signs You Need a New Water Heater:
- Your unit is near or beyond its expected service life
- If your water supply is rust colored
- Your tank is leaking
Learn More About B&W’s Service Plan
If you need a heater repair or replacement company in Indianapolis, contact B&W today. Our team of experts can handle any broken water heater emergencies.
- Our service plan includes:
- Fall maintenance heating system check/tune-up
- Spring maintenance cooling system check/tune-up
- 10% discount on plumbing, heating, and cooling repairs
- Preferred scheduling
- No overtime fees, nights or weekends
If you think your heater is damaged, call us today to book an appointment and get your energy efficiency back up. We’ll quickly assess the problem and come up with a restoration plan. We are committed to conducting work with complete transparency so you can feel confident in our services.
Contact B&W for Water Heater Repair Services in Indianapolis and Central Indiana
B&W is one of the leading water heater repair and professional water heater installation companies in Indianapolis. We service and install both tankless water heaters and traditional tank models. We are a full-service, family-owned company that promises each customer an outstanding service experience.
Our clients include families that have worked with us for 60+ years. Give us a call if you want to know more about the water heater replacement and repair services or plumbing services we offer or book an appointment.
FAQs about Water Heater Repair & Installation in Indianapolis
How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost in Indianapolis?
Water heater replacement cost in Indianapolis varies from $1,800 to $3,500 or more, depending on your specific needs and installation requirements. The final price depends on several factors, including whether you choose a traditional tank or tankless water heater installation, gas versus electric models, and your home’s existing plumbing setup. Older Indianapolis homes may require additional work to meet current codes, which we include in our transparent estimates. Keep in mind that quality installation by experienced professionals saves you money long-term through improved efficiency and fewer repairs.
At B&W Plumbing, we provide detailed estimates with no hidden fees or surprise charges. With 60+ years of experience, we can accurately assess your needs and recommend the most cost-effective solution. We handle all permits and ensure code compliance, so you get a complete, worry-free installation. Our transparent pricing approach means you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for before we start work.
What Are the Signs That I Need Water Heater Repair or Replacement?
Several clear warning signs can indicate you need water heater repair or complete replacement. The most obvious sign is when there is no hot water or you run out of hot water much faster than usual. Strange noises like rumbling, banging, or popping sounds coming from your unit signal sediment buildup or internal component failure. Rusty or discolored water from your hot water taps indicates tank corrosion, while water pooling around the base means you have a leak that needs immediate attention.
Age plays a crucial role in this decision. Most water heaters last 8-12 years, so units approaching or exceeding this range should be evaluated by professionals. Inconsistent water temperature, where your shower alternates between hot and lukewarm, suggests failing heating elements or thermostats. Rising energy bills without increased usage often indicate declining efficiency. If you’re experiencing any combination of these issues, especially in older Indianapolis homes where systems work harder, it’s time for a professional assessment to determine whether repair or replacement makes the most financial sense.
Whether you’re dealing with a corroded tank, inconsistent performance, or choosing between a gas water heater, electric water heaters, tankless models, or the right water heater for your household, it’s crucial to rely on a trusted plumbing company with experienced certified plumbers who can guide your plumbing project from start to finish with professional-grade plumbing services and attention to key factors like fuel source, hot water system compatibility, water quality, potential rusty water concerns, and long-term efficiency metrics such as the unit’s energy factor—all assessed by a licensed plumber to ensure your hot water heater choice delivers lasting performance.
What Should I Look for in a Water Heater Contractor in Indianapolis?
Choosing the right contractor for water heater repair & installation in Indianapolis requires evaluating several essential qualifications. First, verify they’re properly licensed, insured, and bonded to protect your property and ensure quality work. Look for an established local business with a proven track record rather than fly-by-night operators who may not stand behind their work.
Experience matters significantly, especially with the mix of older and newer homes in Indianapolis that present unique challenges. Your contractor should demonstrate expertise with different water heater types and brands, not just basic installations. Transparent pricing with detailed written estimates protects you from hidden fees and surprise charges that plague this industry. Quality workmanship guarantees show the contractor’s confidence in their work and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Emergency water heater service availability indicates a full-service operation that can handle urgent situations without gouging customers with excessive overtime fees. When searching for water heater repair near you, check customer reviews and ask for local referrals, particularly from neighbors with similar homes. The best contractors prioritize long-term customer relationships over quick sales, taking time to educate you about options and recommend solutions that truly fit your needs and budget rather than pushing the most expensive option.
Should I Repair or Replace My Water Heater?
The repair versus replacement decision depends on your water heater’s age, current performance, and repair history. Units over 7 years old often make better candidates for replacement, especially if repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit’s price. Frequent repairs indicate declining reliability, and you’ll likely face more breakdowns soon after spending money on fixes.
Consider the energy-efficiency improvements available with new models. Today’s water heaters operate significantly more efficiently than units installed even five years ago, potentially reducing your monthly energy costs enough to offset the replacement investment. If your current unit no longer meets your household’s hot water demands due to family changes or increased usage, replacement makes more sense than repeatedly repairing an inadequately sized system.
Professional assessment provides the most accurate guidance for your specific situation. Our experienced technicians evaluate your unit’s condition, your home’s requirements, and long-term cost implications to give you honest recommendations. We prioritize your best interests over sales pressure, helping you understand whether a repair can reliably extend your system’s life or if replacement offers better value. This approach has built trust with Indianapolis families for over 60 years, creating relationships that span multiple generations.
How Long Does Water Heater Installation Take?
Water heater installation typically takes 3-6 hours for standard replacement projects, though several factors can affect the timeline. Straightforward tank-to-tank replacements in accessible locations with existing proper connections represent the shorter end of this range. More complex installations involving tankless water heater installation, location changes, or code compliance updates for older Indianapolis homes may require additional time.
Same-day service is often available for emergency situations, and our experienced teams arrive prepared with necessary materials to minimize delays. Professional preparation includes bringing the right tools, permits, and replacement parts to complete the job efficiently. We coordinate our work to minimize disruption to your daily routine, and our installation process includes complete cleanup and proper disposal of your old unit.
The quality of installation significantly impacts your water heater’s performance and lifespan, so rushing through the process creates problems later. Our technicians take time to ensure proper connections, test all functions, and explain your new system’s operation before leaving. This thorough approach, backed by 60+ years of experience, ensures you get maximum value from your investment and reliable hot water for years to come.
What’s the Difference Between Tankless and Traditional Water Heaters?
Traditional tank water heaters store 30-80 gallons of heated water, providing immediate hot water availability at a lower upfront cost. These proven systems work reliably for most Indianapolis homes, especially those with predictable usage patterns. They’re easier to install in existing setups and cost less initially, making them popular for budget-conscious homeowners.
Tankless water heater installation provides on-demand heating, eliminating standby energy losses from storing heated water. These units save significant space, last longer than traditional tanks, and provide endless hot water when properly sized. However, they require higher upfront investment and may need electrical or gas line upgrades in older homes.
The best choice depends on your household size, usage patterns, and long-term goals. Large families with simultaneous hot water demands might prefer traditional tanks, while couples or small families often benefit from tankless efficiency. Professional sizing ensures optimal performance regardless of the type chosen. Our experts evaluate your specific situation, considering factors like available space, existing utilities, and usage patterns to recommend the solution that provides the best value for your Indianapolis home’s unique requirements.
Do You Provide Emergency Water Heater Service in Indianapolis?
Yes, we provide emergency water heater service throughout the Indianapolis metro area with extended service hours and no overtime fees. Water heater emergencies don’t follow business hours, so we maintain availability to address urgent situations when you need help most. Same-day service is available when possible, and our experienced technicians can often provide temporary solutions while you decide on permanent repairs or replacement.
Our emergency service covers the full range of water heater problems, from complete failures to dangerous conditions like gas leaks or electrical issues. We serve Indianapolis and surrounding communities with rapid response times, understanding that losing hot water creates serious inconvenience for families and businesses. Our trucks stay stocked with common repair parts and replacement units to resolve problems quickly.
What sets our emergency service apart is our commitment to fair pricing even during urgent situations. While some companies exploit emergencies with excessive overtime charges, we maintain consistent, transparent pricing regardless of when you need help. This approach reflects our focus on long-term customer relationships rather than short-term profit maximization, a philosophy that has served Indianapolis families for over 60 years.
What Water Heater Brands Do You Recommend for Indianapolis Homes?
We recommend the best water heater brands in Indianapolis. Rheem, Bradford White, and AO Smith consistently deliver reliable performance and strong warranty support. These contractor-grade models offer superior construction and components compared to retail versions, ensuring longer lifespan and better performance under demanding conditions.
Brand selection should match your home’s specific requirements and local conditions. The water quality and climate variations in Indianapolis affect various models differently, so a professional assessment is important to ensure optimal brand and model selection. Contractor-grade units provide better warranty coverage and service support, with local parts availability that retail brands often lack.
Professional installation protects your warranty coverage and ensures optimal performance regardless of the brand chosen. Even the best water heater performs poorly with incorrect installation, while proper installation maximizes efficiency and lifespan of quality equipment. Our relationships with these manufacturers provide access to the latest models and technical support when needed. We help you balance upfront cost with long-term value, considering factors like energy efficiency, expected lifespan, and maintenance requirements to recommend the perfect solution for your Indianapolis home’s needs.
<!– wp:acf/flexible-accordion {“name”:”acf/flexible-accordion”,”data”:{“field_6787a57c25283″:”FAQs about Backflow Testing And Prevention Services In Indianapolis”,”field_6787a59c25284″:{“row-0”:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”What Is Backflow Testing and Why Is It Required in Indianapolis?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eBackflow testing ensures that contaminated water cannot flow backward into Indianapolis’s clean drinking water supply. Indiana state law under 327 IAC 8-10 mandates annual testing of backflow prevention devices to protect public health from dangerous contaminants like chemicals, bacteria, fertilizers, and waste materials.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eWhen water pressure drops in the main supply lines, contaminated water from irrigation systems, fire protection systems, or commercial facilities can be pulled back into the clean water system. This creates serious health risks for entire neighborhoods. Properties with irrigation systems, fire protection equipment, or any cross-connections to the public water supply must have their backflow prevention devices tested annually by IDEM-certified professionals.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eThe Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) oversees this program because protecting drinking water is a critical public safety issue. Testing verifies that your backflow prevention device works properly and continues to protect both your property and the community’s water supply.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-1″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”Do I Need Annual Backflow Testing for My Indianapolis Property?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eMost properties with irrigation or sprinkler systems require annual backflow testing in Indianapolis. Commercial and industrial properties typically need testing due to their complex plumbing systems and potential cross connection control concerns with the public supply.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eMulti-family residential buildings, apartment complexes, and condominiums often require testing because they frequently have fire protection systems or commercial-grade irrigation. Single-family homes usually don’t need testing unless they have irrigation systems, pools with fill lines, or any other setup where a cross connection exists with the public potable water system.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eAny property with fire protection systems, boilers, cooling towers, or industrial processes that connect to public water requires testing. Citizens Energy Group and other local water utilities maintain records of which properties need compliance and will send annual notices to property owners, especially when a service connection poses potential contamination risk.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eThe key factor is whether your property has any system that could potentially allow contaminated water to flow back into the public supply. When water connects to irrigation lines, fire systems, or industrial processes, backflow prevention becomes essential, and it’s critical to maintain backflow prevention devices to avoid failure or contamination.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-2″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”What Happens if I Don’t Get My Backflow Device Tested Annually?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eIndiana law requires annual testing, and non-compliance carries serious consequences that every property owner should understand. Your water utility can legally disconnect service for failing to complete required testing, leaving your property without water until compliance is achieved.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eLocal authorities can issue fines and penalties for non-compliance, and these costs typically exceed the annual testing fees. More importantly, if contamination occurs due to a failed backflow device, property owners face significant liability issues and potential lawsuits.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eNon-compliance also creates health risks for the entire community water supply. One contaminated property can affect multiple neighborhoods, making this a serious public health concern.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eWater utilities typically send multiple notices before disconnection, but they will eventually shut off service if testing isn’t completed. The testing must be performed by IDEM-certified backflow testing professionals – property owners cannot perform this testing themselves or hire uncertified individuals.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eDon’t wait until the last minute to schedule testing. The consequences of delayed compliance far outweigh the cost and convenience of annual testing.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-3″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”How Much Does Backflow Testing Cost in Indianapolis?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eBackflow testing costs vary depending on your device type, accessibility, and complexity, but annual testing remains significantly less expensive than penalties, water disconnection, or system replacement. Residential irrigation system testing typically represents the most common and affordable testing service.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eCommercial systems often cost more due to their complexity, multiple devices, and specialized testing requirements. Property accessibility also affects pricing – devices in difficult locations or requiring special equipment may cost more to test properly.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eProperty owners are responsible for all testing costs, as this is a regulatory requirement for maintaining water service. Minor repairs discovered during testing are often included in the service fee, while major repairs or device replacements require separate estimates.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eB\u0026amp;W provides transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges. We’ll assess your specific situation and provide clear pricing before beginning any work. Remember that annual testing costs are typically much lower than the fines, penalties, and emergency repair costs that result from non-compliance.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eThe investment in annual testing protects both your property’s water service and your community’s drinking water safety.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-4″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”What Types of Backflow Prevention Devices Require Testing?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eRPZ valve testing is required for Reduced Pressure Zone assemblies, which provide the highest level of protection and are commonly installed on irrigation systems and commercial properties. These devices require annual testing due to their complex internal mechanisms and critical safety functions.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003ePressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) devices are frequently used for residential irrigation system backflow testing and must be tested annually. Double check valve assemblies, commonly found on commercial properties, also require professional testing to ensure proper operation.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eAir gaps require visual inspection to verify they maintain proper separation between water sources. Fire protection systems, boilers, cooling towers, and industrial processes all typically have backflow prevention devices requiring annual testing.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eAny device installed between the public water supply and potential contamination sources needs testing. Different device types require specific testing procedures and specialized equipment that only certified professionals can properly perform.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eProfessional identification of device type is crucial because improper testing procedures can damage equipment or provide inaccurate results. Some properties have multiple devices requiring testing, each with different specifications and testing requirements.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-5″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”How Long Does Backflow Testing Take, and Will I Lose Water Service?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eBackflow testing typically takes 15 minutes to one hour, depending on device type, accessibility, and any issues discovered during testing. A brief water shutoff is required during the actual testing process, but this represents minimal disruption to daily operations.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eWe provide advance notice when scheduling testing so you can plan around the temporary water interruption. Commercial properties may need coordination to minimize impact on business operations, and we work with property managers to schedule testing during convenient hours.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eEmergency testing services are available when properties receive urgent compliance notices from water utilities. Our professional testing equipment ensures accurate results while completing the process as efficiently as possible.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eComplete documentation is provided immediately after testing, including test results and any recommendations for repairs or maintenance. If devices fail testing, we can often perform necessary repairs and retest the same day to restore compliance quickly.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eThe brief inconvenience of annual testing prevents much longer water shutoffs that occur when utilities disconnect service for non-compliance. Planning ahead with scheduled testing ensures minimal disruption to your property operations.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-6″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”Who Can Perform Backflow Testing in Indianapolis?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eOnly IDEM-certified backflow testing professionals can legally perform backflow testing in Indiana. IDEM certification requires completing a comprehensive 35-hour training course and passing a rigorous examination covering testing procedures, regulations, and safety requirements.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eAll certified testers must register with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and maintain their certification through continuing education. B\u0026amp;W’s technicians hold current IDEM certification and stay updated on all regulatory changes and testing requirements.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eNon-certified testing is not valid for regulatory compliance, regardless of the person’s plumbing experience or technical knowledge. Water utilities will only accept test results from properly certified professionals, and property owners remain non-compliant if testing is performed by uncertified individuals.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eCertified testers handle all required reporting and documentation, ensuring results are properly submitted to water utilities within the required 10-day timeframe. They also have access to calibrated testing equipment and understand the specific procedures required for different device types.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eExperience with various backflow prevention devices is important because different systems require different testing approaches and expertise. Choose certified professionals who regularly perform testing and understand both the technical and regulatory requirements.\u003c/span\u003e”},”row-7″:{“field_6787a5c725285″:”What Happens After My Backflow Device Is Tested?”,”field_6787a61a25286″:”\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eTest results are automatically submitted to your water utility within 10 days of testing, as required by Indiana regulations. B\u0026amp;W handles all paperwork and reporting requirements, so property owners don’t need to worry about compliance documentation.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eYou receive a copy of all test results for your property records, including detailed information about device condition and performance. Pass or fail determination is provided immediately after testing, along with any recommendations for maintenance or repairs.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eFailed devices require immediate repair and retesting to maintain compliance with state regulations. B\u0026amp;W can typically perform necessary repairs and complete retesting during the same service call, restoring your property to full compliance quickly. Compliance is noted in your water utility’s records, and most utilities send reminder notices before the next year’s testing deadline. Proper documentation becomes part of your property records and may be required during property sales or transfers.\u003c/span\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cspan style=\u0022font-weight: 400;\u0022\u003eThe testing certificate serves as proof of compliance if questions arise from regulatory authorities. Having current, professional documentation of annual backflow testing in Indianapolis protects property owners and demonstrates responsible maintenance of public health protections. Let B\u0026amp;W handle all your testing documentation and reporting. We take care of the paperwork so you don’t have to. Ensure your property stays compliant with Indiana law. \u003ca href=\u0022https://bplusw.com/contact/\u0022\u003eContact B\u0026amp;W\u003c/a\u003e at 317-243-3581 for a free assessment of your backflow prevention device needs.\u003c/span\u003e”}}},”mode”:”edit”} /–>We’ll Work with You to Make Your Project a Reality.
At B&W Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric, we know what it takes to raise a family. We’re a family business. That’s why we’ll work with you and Wells Fargo, whom we’ve developed relationships with to provide payment options that can help you purchase those bathroom or kitchen updates or that new home comfort system. Special financing is available with approved credit.
