Do you offer 24 hour emergency plumbing in Roanoke VA?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout Roanoke, Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins and nearby communities.

How much does an emergency plumber cost in Roanoke?

Pricing depends on the plumbing issue, required repairs and time of service. Call 540-334-5395 for assistance.

Can you fix a burst pipe?

Yes. We repair burst pipes, leaks, damaged plumbing lines and provide emergency pipe replacement services.

Do you repair water heaters?

Yes. We repair and install traditional and tankless water heaters.

Do you provide drain cleaning services?

Yes. We clear clogged drains, sinks, showers, toilets and sewer lines.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Roanoke, Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, Bonsack, Roanoke County and surrounding Virginia communities.

Plumbing Guide

What to Do When Your Water Heater Stops Working

Layman's Contracting Expert - Emergency Plumber Roanoke

Layman's Contracting Local Experts

Serving Roanoke & Southwest VA Since 1995

Losing hot water is more than just an inconvenience—it disrupts your daily routine, from taking showers to washing dishes and doing laundry. In Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge areas, a sudden lack of hot water is one of the most common plumbing calls we receive.

At Layman's Contracting, we've been serving homeowners in Roanoke, Wirtz, Franklin County, and Bedford County since 1995. We know the local water conditions and the specific challenges they present to water heaters. If your water heater has suddenly stopped working, don't panic. Here are the essential steps you should take to troubleshoot the problem and determine when it's time to call in a professional.

1. Check the Power Source

The most common reason for a water heater failure is a simple power disruption. Whether you have an electric or gas water heater, it needs power to operate correctly.

Electric Water Heaters: Check your home's electrical panel for a tripped breaker. If the breaker is tripped, reset it. If it trips again immediately, you may have a short circuit and should call a professional.

Gas Water Heaters: Check the pilot light. If it's out, follow the manufacturer's instructions on the side of the tank to relight it. If it won't stay lit, the thermocouple may need replacement.

2. Inspect the Area for Leaks

Before doing any further troubleshooting, inspect the area around the base of your water heater for standing water or signs of moisture.

Safety Warning: If you see a puddle of water around the tank, do not touch the water heater, especially if it's electric. A leaking tank usually indicates internal corrosion, meaning the unit will likely need to be replaced. Turn off the water supply valve above the heater if it is safe to do so, and call an emergency plumber immediately.

3. Verify the Thermostat Settings

Sometimes the issue is as simple as the thermostat being accidentally bumped or set too low. For optimal performance and safety, the Department of Energy recommends setting your water heater thermostat to 120°F.

Action Step: Locate the thermostat on your water heater (electric heaters often have two, hidden behind access panels). Ensure it is set to the correct temperature. If you adjust it and still don't get hot water after an hour, the thermostat or heating element may be faulty.

4. Consider Sediment Buildup

In Southwest Virginia, hard water can lead to mineral and sediment buildup at the bottom of your water heater tank over time. This sediment insulates the water from the heating element, causing the heater to work harder and eventually fail. If you hear popping or rumbling noises coming from the tank, sediment is likely the culprit.

Prevention Tip: Flushing your water heater annually can prevent sediment buildup and extend the life of your unit. If you've never flushed your heater and it's suddenly stopped working, it may require professional descaling or replacement.

5. Know When to Call a Professional

Water heaters involve high voltage electricity, natural gas, and scalding hot water under pressure. If you've checked the breaker or pilot light and the unit still isn't working, it's time to call in the experts. Attempting DIY repairs on internal components can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

Need Fast Water Heater Repair in Roanoke?

A broken water heater is an emergency. At Layman's Contracting, our licensed plumbers are available 24/7 to diagnose and repair your water heater, or install a high-efficiency replacement if necessary.

Get Your Hot Water Back Today

Our local experts at Layman's Contracting are ready to restore your home's comfort.