Water Heater Repair in Fairfax, VA

We start with the symptom you describe, then work through the heater. On gas units, that means the pilot or ignition, thermocouple or flame sensor, gas control and burner, plus the draft hood and vent to make sure exhaust is leaving the house. On electric units, it means testing each element and thermostat and checking the wiring. On every heater we look at the relief valve and its discharge pipe, the drain valve, the supply connections on top, and signs of rust or seepage around the base. We also check whether the house has an expansion tank and whether water pressure is in a reasonable range, since high pressure is hard on tanks and fixtures. You get a plain summary at the end: what failed, what we recommend and what it involves, before any work begins.

If repair is not worth it, a new tank heater is the most direct swap and usually fits the existing space and connections. A tankless water heater frees up floor space and provides continuous hot water, though it may need new venting, a larger gas line or a dedicated electrical circuit. We walk through both and arrange a water heater replacement that fits the house. More on repairs is on our water heater repair page. Whatever type you choose, the job includes the details that matter in older houses: correct venting, a new relief valve line, an expansion tank where needed and fittings that will not corrode against the old pipe.