Water Heater Repair in Seattle, WA, and Surrounding Areas
CALL (206) 789-4944
Serving the Greater Seattle Area
Rated 5 Stars by Enada H. on Google
"The team at Bob Oates was amazing. My water heater was leaking and extremely pressurized. They were out to my house almost instantly. Prices were very reasonable. 10/10 service! Thank you."
Running out of hot water is frustrating. Discovering your water heater is leaking or has completely failed can quickly become an emergency.
Whether you need a repair, routine maintenance, or a complete replacement, the licensed plumbing professionals at Bob Oates provide fast, honest water heater service throughout the Greater Seattle area.
We service both traditional tank and tankless systems, helping homeowners choose the right solution for reliable hot water and long-term peace of mind.

Energy-efficient tankless water heater installation by Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter.
Common Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair or Replacement
Most water heaters don’t stop working without warning. If you notice one or more of these signs, it may be time to schedule a professional inspection or consider replacing your unit before a complete failure leaves you without hot water.
- Rust or Corrosion – Rust on the outside of the tank or rust-colored hot water may indicate internal corrosion that can eventually lead to leaks.
- Unusual Noises – Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds often point to mineral buildup inside the tank, reducing efficiency and putting additional stress on the system.
- Leaking Water Heater – Water collecting around the base of the tank should never be ignored. Even a small leak can quickly become a much larger problem.
- Inconsistent Hot Water – If your hot water runs out quickly or frequently turns cold, your water heater may no longer be heating efficiently.
- Metallic Taste or Discolored Water – Changes in the taste, color, or clarity of your hot water can be a sign of corrosion inside the tank or plumbing system.
- Older Water Heater – Most traditional tank water heaters last about 8–12 years. If yours is approaching that age, replacement is often more economical than repeated repairs.

How to Select the Right Water Heater for Your Seattle Property
Finding the most efficient and reliable water heater to meet the needs of your home or office is an important task, one that may require the help of a professional plumbing company. Our qualified techs are trained to recognize the type and size of water heater that can best fit your needs.
Our goal is to help you find the best water heater that can save you money on energy costs and provide all the hot water your property requires.

New Rheem gas water heater installation by Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter.
How to Properly Install Your New Water Heater
You may be tempted to install your water heater yourself, but incorrect installation can lead to more expensive, time-consuming, and even dangerous issues down the road. There are several serious issues that could occur if your new water heater is not installed the right way:
- An improperly installed water heater can result in leaks and extensive water damage
- An incorrectly-piped pressure relief valve can result in electrical short-outs
- An ineffectively-vented gas water heater can result in carbon monoxide poisoning
The experts at Bob Oates will install your water heater safely and correctly the first time around, so you won’t have to deal with the hassle!
Whether it’s electric water heater repair and gas water heater repair, our team is experienced at selecting, installing, and maintaining water heaters for our customers. We’re Seattle’s water heater repair specialists!

Bob Oates and GM John Peterson stand beside company mascot Poopy the Plunger and two of the fleet’s service vans.
Serving Greater Seattle for Over 30 Years
From sewer repair and replacement to professional drain cleaning, we provide a wide range of services across the Greater Seattle Area, including in the following communities:
- Ballard
- Bellevue
- Federal Way
- Fremont
- Greenwood
- Kent
- Lynnwood
- Magnolia
- Maple Leaf
- Phinney Ridge / Green Lake
- Queen Anne
- Renton
- Seattle
- Shoreline
- Tacoma
- Wallingford
- West Seattle
We strive to be the best in the industry, so if you want the job done right, call us today or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. And be sure to check out Bob’s profile piece in Cleaner Magazine!
FAQs About Water Heater Repair
What are the signs my water heater needs repair?
Common warning signs include inconsistent hot water, strange noises like popping or rumbling, rusty or cloudy water, leaks around the tank, or a water heater that takes too long to heat.
How long do water heaters usually last?
Most traditional tank water heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless models can last 15–20 years with proper maintenance. Age and maintenance history are big factors.
Can you repair both tank and tankless water heaters?
Yes. Our team services both traditional tank models and modern tankless systems, providing repairs, maintenance, and replacement when needed.
Do you offer same-day water heater repair in Seattle?
Yes. We provide same-day and emergency service when your water heater fails, so you don’t have to go without hot water.
When is replacement better than repair?
If your water heater is near the end of its lifespan, leaking from the tank, or requiring frequent repairs, replacement may be more cost-effective than ongoing fixes.
CALL (206) 789-4944
Serving the Greater Seattle Area
