Are waiting (and waiting and waiting) for the water to warm up before you jump in the shower? If it’s not heating up then you could have an issue with your water heater. Avoid the inconvenience by calling Maxwell-White Plumbing to have our experts inspect your unit and determine if you need repairs or a replacement. When you schedule an appointment at your La Crosse, WI home, we guarantee satisfaction.
Do you want on-demand hot water? Call us to learn about our tankless water heater services in La Crosse.
Common Water Heater Issues
Unfortunately, occasionally your water heater might experience problems that require professional repairs. Some common issues you might encounter at your La Crosse County home can include:
- Lack of hot water: One of the most noticeable issues with your system is a lack of hot water. For gas-powered units, this can be caused by an extinguished pilot light that needs to be relit. It could also indicate a damaged heating element.
- Leaking: An expert should inspect the leak to determine if it can be repaired or if the unit should be replaced.
- Excessive noise: Loud or unusual noises can signal a damaged heating element or a buildup of sediment inside the unit that needs to be professionally removed.
- Cracks: Cracks should be inspected by a professional to see if they can be repaired or if the unit needs to be replaced.
Life Expectancy of a Water Heater
While your water heater won’t last forever, these units do tend to last a significant amount of time. As experts will tell you, every make and model is different, so it’s hard to know exactly how long your unit will last. Technicians can estimate that most electric units will last between 8-12 years but this is very dependent on the make, model, upkeep, water quality and how the heater is used. The amount of care and maintenance the system receives, and the quality of your water, can impact that timeline. Gas-powered units might not last quite as long as electric systems.
Expert Water Heater Installation for La Crosse Homeowners
When it’s time to upgrade your home’s comfort, professional water heater installation is the most critical step. A proper setup involves more than just swapping tanks; it requires precise calibration of gas lines or electrical connections, ensuring correct venting to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and installing thermal expansion tanks where necessary to meet local La Crosse building codes.
By choosing a professional water heater installation, you ensure your new unit operates at peak efficiency from day one. Our team handles the heavy lifting, from removing and recycling your old, leaky unit to testing the water pressure and temperature of your new system, so you can enjoy a seamless transition to reliable, steaming hot water.
Are your sinks draining more and more slowly? Contact us to learn about our drain cleaning services!
Signs Your Water Heater Needs To Be Replaced
Before you’re stuck with cold water throughout your house, it’s important to identify the signs that your water heater needs to be replaced before it completely malfunctions. Some signs that can indicate you need to install a new unit can include:
- Age: Your unit may be getting older. These systems typically last between 8-12 years but this is very dependent on the make, model, upkeep, water quality and how the heater is used.
- Losing efficiency: If your system is losing efficiency and needs to work too hard to function.
- Rust and corrosion: If you notice rust or corrosion on the unit, or rust in the water.
- Leaking: If there are leaks coming from the unit.
- Water is not warm enough: The system is no longer able to properly heat the water.
- Cracks: There are cracks in the tank or in the system.
At Maxwell-White Plumbing, we work with the best brands on the market, and our water heater installation services are no exception. Bradford-White Water Heaters are available only through plumbing professionals, so make sure to ask your technician about them when the time comes to install a new water heater in your home.
Proper Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your water heater operates efficiently and has a long lifespan. This includes flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, checking the anode rod, and ensuring the temperature and pressure relief valve is functioning correctly. By staying on top of maintenance, you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Proper maintenance also helps improve the energy efficiency of your water heater, which can lead to lower utility bills. Consider scheduling an annual inspection with a professional plumber to ensure your water heater is in good working order and to identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
Choosing the Right Replacement Water Heater
When it’s time to replace your water heater, it’s important to select a model that meets the specific needs of your household. Factors to consider include the size of your home, the number of bathrooms, and your family’s hot water usage. Working with a professional plumber can help you determine the right size and type of water heater for your needs, whether it’s a traditional tank-style or a more energy-efficient tankless model.
Additionally, be sure to research the various brands and features available to find a water heater that fits your budget and provides the performance you need. By investing in a high-quality, properly sized water heater, you can enjoy reliable hot water for years to come.

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