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Water Heater Services

No hot water, leaking tank, or strange noises can throw your whole day off, and it usually doesn’t get better on its own. Zephyr Environmental Solutions provides residential water heater repair and replacement in Charlottesville and surrounding Central Virginia communities, with clear options and clean, careful work.

Water heater help for repairs, replacements, and upgrades

Get hot water back fast, then decide what makes sense long-term

 If you’re dealing with no hot water or an aging unit, we’ll start with a practical diagnosis and explain your options clearly. Use the paths below to find the service that fits your situation.

A boiler with a wrench icon, indicating repair or maintenance services.

Water Heater Repair

When your water heater isn’t producing enough hot water, is making popping noises, or the pilot won’t stay lit, we look for fixable causes first. If a repair can safely restore performance, we’ll recommend it and keep the scope straightforward.

Icon of a water heater with a sad face on the display, and water flowing from the faucet.

Water Heater Installation & Replacement

If the tank is leaking, heavily corroded, or nearing the end of its service life, replacement is often the safer and more predictable choice. We’ll help you choose the right size and fuel type, remove the old unit, and install the new one to code.

Hand holding a wrench next to a boiler with a flame.

Tankless Water Heaters

If you’re interested in on-demand hot water, we’ll explain what tankless systems do well and what they require, so you can decide without guessing. We’ll also help you compare tankless vs. tank options based on household demand, efficiency goals, and installation requirements.

Hot water heater repair and replacement for Charlottesville homes

Honest guidance for tank, tankless, gas, and electric setups

Many homeowners don’t realize their HVAC contractor can also handle water heaters, but the same principles apply: correct sizing, safe installation, and careful troubleshooting. If you have no hot water, inconsistent temperatures, or warning signs like rust-colored water or water around the unit, we’ll help you understand what’s happening and what to do next. When replacement is the right move, we focus on a clean install with the safety details done correctly, so you can feel confident about the result. And if you’re weighing tankless vs. tank, we’ll walk you through real-life tradeoffs, not a one-size-fits-all pitch.

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Water heater FAQs

Common questions, clear answers

  • Who fixes water heaters in Charlottesville?

    Many licensed HVAC contractors and plumbers handle water heater repair and replacement, so the key is choosing a company that can diagnose accurately and install safely. A good service visit should include a clear explanation of the likely cause and what your options are, not just a quick recommendation to replace. You should also expect code-conscious work, especially for gas units and venting, and for any required safety components. If you’re not sure what type of unit you have, we can help you identify it and choose the right next step.

  • What does it mean if my water heater is making popping or rumbling noises?

    Noises often come from sediment buildup in the tank, which can reduce efficiency and make the unit work harder than it should. In some cases, flushing and maintenance can improve performance, but it depends on the unit’s age and condition. Ignoring the sound can sometimes lead to worse efficiency or faster wear over time. The safest approach is to have it evaluated so you know whether it’s a maintenance issue, a repair need, or a sign the unit is nearing replacement.

  • How do I know if I need water heater repair or replacement?

    If the tank itself is leaking or severely corroded, replacement is usually the safest option because tank failures typically can’t be “repaired” reliably. If the issue is related to a component like a thermostat, heating element, or gas control, repair may be possible and cost-effective. Age matters too, because older tanks are more likely to have multiple issues close together. We’ll explain what we find and help you weigh the practical costs and risks so you can decide confidently.

  • What should I expect for the cost to install a new water heater near me?

    Pricing depends on the type of unit (gas vs. electric, tank vs. tankless), the size you need, and what the installation requires in your home. A solid quote should spell out what’s included, what’s optional, and whether any code updates or modifications are needed for a safe install. For example, some replacements may involve venting considerations, expansion control, or other safety-related details. The most accurate next step is an in-home assessment so you’re comparing real options, not rough guesses.

  • Is switching to a tankless water heater worth it in Charlottesville?

    Tankless can be a great fit if you want longer hot showers, have high hot-water demand, or want to reduce standby energy loss compared to a tank model. The upfront cost is typically higher, and some homes may need gas line, venting, or electrical adjustments to support the system properly. For smaller households, a high-efficiency tank unit may deliver excellent value with a simpler installation. We’ll help you compare the pros and cons based on how your home uses hot water, so the choice feels clear instead of overwhelming.