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Quick, low-risk steps
- If there is a gas odor, CO alarm, smoke, or water near electricity, evacuate and call 911 or the gas utility.
- For a major leak, turn off the cold-water shutoff valve above the water heater if safe.
- For a gas water heater with a problem, turn the gas control knob to 'off' if you can safely reach it.
- Record the water heater's model, fuel type, age, and visible leak location.
- List your household's simultaneous hot-water needs before considering a new unit.
- Contact a licensed plumber for any repair or replacement work.
Homeowner paths
Choose the guide that matches the decision
What to Do When Your Water Heater Is Leaking
A leaking water heater can cause damage or danger. Learn safe immediate actions, what to check, and when to call a pro. Practical guidance for Denver homeowners.
Open guide →Decision guideNo Hot Water: Safe First Steps and What to Check
No hot water in your Denver home? Start with safety, then learn what to check and when to call a licensed plumber. Practical, calm guidance for homeowners.
Open guide →Decision guideShould You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?
Practical factors to help Denver homeowners decide between water heater repair and replacement. Covers safety, age, efficiency, and cost questions to ask a pro.
Open guide →Decision guideWhat Affects Water Heater Replacement Cost?
Understand what goes into a complete water heater replacement quote. Learn about equipment, labor, permits, and hidden scope items before you call a contractor.
Open guide →Interactive toolWater Heater Size Planner: Estimate Your First-Hour Demand
Estimate your household hot-water demand with a private worksheet. Learn what first-hour rating means and what to share with a licensed plumber.
Open guide →Interactive toolWater Heater Cost Comparison Tool
Compare water heater upfront and operating costs with this private worksheet. Understand what affects your quotes before you call a pro in Denver.
Open guide →Start with Safety
Water heaters can present serious hazards. Gas leaks can cause explosions, carbon monoxide can be deadly, and mixing water with electricity can lead to electrocution. If you detect a gas odor, hear a carbon monoxide alarm, see smoke or scorching, or find water contacting electrical equipment, leave the area immediately and call 911 or your utility's emergency line.
For less urgent situations, such as a small leak or no hot water, you can take some initial steps to prevent damage. However, always prioritize your safety. If you are unsure about any action, wait for a professional.
- Evacuate and call 911 for gas odors, CO alarms, smoke, or water near electricity.
- Do not touch electrical panels or outlets if water is present.
- Keep children and pets away from the water heater area.
- Only use clearly identified shutoff valves when safe to do so.
Quick Troubleshooting and Evidence Gathering
Before calling a plumber, gather information that will help them diagnose the problem. Note the make, model, and age of your water heater. Identify the fuel type: gas, electric, or heat pump. Describe the issue: no hot water, not enough hot water, a leak, strange noises, or rusty water.
If there is a leak, try to see where it is coming from. Is it from the tank itself, a pipe connection, or the pressure relief valve? This information can help the plumber come prepared.
- Record the water heater's model, fuel type, and age.
- Note the specific problem: no hot water, leak, noise, etc.
- Locate the visible source of any leak if possible.
- List your household's typical hot water usage (showers, laundry, dishwasher).
Repair or Replace?
Deciding whether to repair or replace a water heater depends on several factors. Consider the unit's age, the cost and extent of the repair, and potential energy savings from a newer model. A professional can assess the condition of your tank and components.
Replacement might be a better long-term solution if your unit is older, has a major leak, or is inefficient. Newer models, including heat pump water heaters, can offer significant energy savings. However, they may require different installation considerations.
- Ask your plumber about the expected remaining life of your current unit.
- Compare repair costs to the price of a new, more efficient model.
- Consider your long-term hot water needs and any planned home changes.
- Explore different water heater types: tank, tankless, or heat pump.
Planning a Replacement
If you decide to replace your water heater, proper sizing is crucial. A unit that is too small will run out of hot water; one that is too large will waste energy. Consider your household's peak hour demand—the time of day when you use the most hot water.
Installation involves more than just swapping the unit. You may need permits, venting changes, electrical or gas line upgrades, and a drain pan. A licensed plumber can handle these details and ensure the work meets local codes.
- Use our water heater size planner to estimate your needs.
- Get multiple quotes that include removal, disposal, permits, and labor.
- Check for available rebates and tax credits for efficient models.
- Ensure the installer pulls necessary permits and schedules inspections.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Equipment type and capacity
- Fuel or energy source
- Removal and disposal of old unit
- Permit and inspection requirements
- Gas line or electrical circuit upgrades
- Venting or condensate needs
- Pan drain and shutoff valves
- Expansion tank if required
- Commissioning and testing
- Labor and warranty terms
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
What should I do if my water heater is leaking?
First, ensure there is no electrical hazard. If safe, turn off the cold-water supply valve above the water heater. Then, turn off the power (for electric) or set the gas control to 'off'. Call a licensed plumber.
How do I know if I need a bigger water heater?
If you frequently run out of hot water during normal use, your unit may be undersized. Use our size planner to estimate your peak hour demand and discuss with a plumber.
Are heat pump water heaters a good choice in Denver?
Heat pump water heaters can be efficient, but their performance depends on installation location and climate. They require sufficient air volume and may need a condensate drain. A local plumber can assess your home's suitability.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Utilities and major systems after an emergencyAmerican Red Cross
Immediate utility safety and qualified-inspection boundaries.
- Heat pump water heater guideENERGY STAR
Equipment benefits and considerations; site conditions and current rates still matter.
- Heat pump water heater design considerationsENERGY STAR
Sizing and installation planning; not a model recommendation.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.