Water Heater Repair in Charlottesville, VA
Few things derail a day faster than an unexpected cold shower or a water heater that won’t stay lit. Zephyr Environmental Solutions repairs gas and electric water heaters in Charlottesville and Central Virginia with clear troubleshooting, practical options, and clean, careful work.
Fast help for “no hot water” and inconsistent temperature
We diagnose the cause, then you choose the fix
When your water heater isn’t heating, it’s usually a specific component or condition that can be identified with the right checks, not a mystery. We troubleshoot common failure points on both gas and electric units and explain what we find in plain language. If a repair is the sensible option, we’ll recommend it and keep the scope straightforward, so you’re not paying for extra work you didn’t ask for.
Common water heater problems we repair
If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to schedule service
Water heaters often give warning signs before they fail completely, and catching them early can prevent bigger hassle or damage. We commonly respond to issues like:
- No hot water: failed heating element, thermostat issues, pilot or ignition problems, or control failures
- Not enough hot water: sediment buildup, a weakening element, dip tube issues, or a unit that’s undersized for current needs
- Leaks or moisture around the unit: valve or connection leaks, T&P discharge concerns, or tank deterioration that needs immediate evaluation
- Strange noises: popping or rumbling that often points to sediment in the tank
- Pilot light or burner trouble: a pilot that won’t stay lit, delayed ignition, or inconsistent heating on gas models
What to do if your water heater is leaking
Quick steps to limit damage while help is on the way
If you see active leaking, the priority is protecting your home and stopping the water source. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the cold-water supply valve to the water heater, then turn off power to the unit (breaker for electric, or set the gas control to “off” for gas). Avoid touching standing water near electrical outlets or equipment, and if you smell gas, leave the area and contact your gas provider. Once things are stable, call us and we’ll help you determine the next step and how urgent the situation is.
Repair-first advice that keeps costs practical
Fix what’s fixable, and be honest when it’s time to replace
Many water heater issues can be solved with a targeted repair, especially when the unit is in generally good condition. We keep common parts and solutions in mind, so we can often restore hot water without turning the visit into a bigger project. If the tank is failing, heavily corroded, or nearing end-of-life, we’ll tell you plainly and walk you through replacement options, so you don’t keep spending on a unit that won’t hold up.
Water heater repair questions
Clear answers before you book a service call
Why is my water heater not heating?
It can be caused by a failed heating element or thermostat (electric), or ignition, pilot, or gas control issues (gas). Sometimes it’s also related to sediment buildup or airflow/venting conditions that affect performance. The symptoms often look similar from the outside, which is why hands-on diagnosis matters. Once we confirm the cause, we’ll explain the fix and what to expect next.
My pilot light keeps going out, what does that mean?
A pilot that won’t stay lit can point to a thermocouple or sensor issue, airflow problems, or a control-related concern. Because gas equipment involves safety, it’s important not to keep relighting it repeatedly without understanding why it’s going out. A technician can test the system and confirm whether it’s a straightforward part replacement or something that needs a deeper look. If you smell gas at any point, leave the area and contact your gas provider.
What if my water heater is leaking from the bottom?
Moisture at the bottom can come from a nearby connection, condensation, or a failing tank, and the difference matters. If the tank is leaking, repair is usually not a long-term solution, and replacement is often the safest path. The first step is shutting off the water supply to limit damage, then having it evaluated quickly. We’ll confirm the source and explain your options clearly.
Do you repair both gas and electric water heaters?
Yes, we troubleshoot and repair both gas and electric units, and we’ll tailor the checks to the type you have. Electric repairs often involve elements, thermostats, and electrical controls, while gas repairs may involve ignition, pilot systems, valves, or venting-related performance. We’ll explain what we’re testing and why, so the process feels transparent. If a repair makes sense, we’ll recommend it without pushing replacement.
How do I know if I should repair or replace my water heater?
Age, condition, and the type of failure are the big factors. Component failures on a healthy tank can be very repairable, while tank corrosion or active tank leaks usually point toward replacement. If repairs are stacking up or hot water demand has changed, replacement may provide more predictable reliability. We’ll talk through the practical tradeoffs so you can choose confidently.