Symptoms & Likely Causes
No Hot Water
Failed elements (electric), ignition issues/thermocouple (gas), tripped breaker, or tankless flow sensor problems.
Not Enough Hot Water
Sediment buildup, one element failed, dip tube damage, or tankless undersized/scale.
Leaks
Loose fittings/valves or tank failure. If the tank body leaks, replacement is safest; we confirm before you decide.
Strange Noises
Popping and rumbling indicate sediment; flushing restores efficiency and extends life.
Our Repair Process
- 1.Safety & diagnostics: electrical tests, gas leak check, venting/air checks.
- 2.Component testing: elements, thermostats, igniters, sensors, flow/pressure switches.
- 3.Repairs: OEM parts installed to spec; we flush sediment and verify temperatures.
- 4.Commissioning: combustion analysis (gas), amperage checks (electric), error reset (tankless).
Tankless Diagnostics
Tankless units post error codes for low flow, ignition, or heat‑exchanger issues. We descale heat exchangers, replace flow sensors and igniters, and verify gas sizing and vent runs—common causes of intermittent shutdowns.
Costs & Timelines
- Simple electrical element/thermostat repairs: typically same visit
- Gas ignition or venting issues: allow time for testing and code adjustments
- Tankless descale & sensor service: usually 1–2 hours after setup
We present repair vs. replacement options when the tank shows age or structural failure so you can decide confidently.
DIY & Maintenance Tips
- Flush tanks yearly to remove sediment
- Check anode rods every 2–3 years; replace when heavily worn
- Keep area around the heater clear for combustion air and service access
Brand Notes & Common Error Codes
We service all major brands. Many tankless units share similar codes:
- E0/E1 low flow or inlet filter—clean/replace filters and verify minimum flow
- Ignition failure—check gas pressure, igniter, flame rod, air/fuel mix, and vent length
- Overheat/thermal—descale heat exchanger, confirm fan and thermistors
For storage tanks we see thermostat/eco trips and element failures after power surges; we carry replacements on the truck.
Safety & Code Compliance
Repairs include safety checks: T&P valve operation, proper discharge routing, vent pitch, draft testing (for atmospherics), bonding/grounding where required, and combustion air. We also verify pan/drain setups in finished spaces.
Case Study: Intermittent Hot Water
A Stroudsburg homeowner reported tankless shutdowns during showers. We found undersized gas piping causing pressure drop at high demand and scale in the exchanger. After descaling and upsizing the near‑unit gas run, the unit delivered steady hot water with no error codes.
Homeowner Prep Checklist
- Clear a 3–4 ft workspace around the heater
- Note any error codes or strange noises before we arrive
- Tell us if breakers trip or if there were recent power surges
- Have the make/model/age handy if known (photo of label helps)
FAQs
Is repair worth it on a 12‑year‑old tank?
We’ll diagnose first. If the tank is structurally sound, small repairs can buy time; if the tank body leaks, replacement is safest.
Why does hot water fluctuate?
Tankless scaling, undersizing, or flow sensor issues are common. We descale and verify gas/vent sizing to stabilize temperature.
Do you stock common parts?
Yes. We carry common elements, thermostats, igniters, and valves to finish many repairs in one trip.