In Firestone, a water heater is due for replacement when the tank leaks, hot water turns rusty or runs out fast, or an older unit keeps needing repairs. The Town of Firestone's Building Division issues a permit for residential tank-style water heater replacements, and tankless units with new gas piping go through plan review. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Firestone.
Firestone is one of the Carbon Valley towns along I-25, and most of its housing is newer family subdivisions, so many homes are reaching the point where the original builder-grade heater gives out. The Town doesn't treat its own water; it buys treated water from Central Weld County Water District, drawn from Carter Lake, and from St. Vrain Water Authority, and disinfects with chlorine. Central Weld reports average hardness around 33 mg/L, which is soft. Barefoot Lakes is different: homes there get water from Little Thompson Water District instead of the Town.
What to do right now
- Close the cold supply valve at the top of the heater to stop more water entering the tank.
- Turn the gas control to off, or switch off the breaker for an electric unit.
- If you smell gas, leave the house before anything else, then call 911 and Black Hills Energy, the town's gas utility, using the number on your bill.
- Move stored items and towels away from the leak and keep children and pets clear of hot water.
- If water won't stop at the house and it's after hours, Firestone's water emergency line is 720-652-4222.
- Note the heater's gallons, fuel and age, then call for replacement quotes that include the Town permit.
Symptoms and their usual causes
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Water on the floor beneath the tank | The tank lining has failed and corroded through |
| Hot water fades quickly | A failed lower element, broken dip tube or sediment |
| Rotten-egg smell in hot water only | A reaction involving the anode rod; a plumber can advise |
| No hot water | Pilot, igniter, gas valve, element or thermostat failure |
| Rust-tinted hot water | A depleted anode rod or rust inside the tank |
What sets the cost
- Tank size, fuel and efficiency rating
- A switch to tankless, which in Firestone means plan review when new gas piping is involved
- Vent pipe and gas connector updates
- Expansion tank, drain pan and relief line requirements
- Garage, basement or closet access
- The Town permit and removal of the old tank
The Building Division is at 9950 Park Ave. and can be reached at [email protected]. Because tankless conversions add a review step, plan a little extra lead time if you're making that switch rather than a straight tank-for-tank swap.
Water Heater Replacement questions in Firestone
Does a water heater replacement here need a permit, and who issues it?
How will the local water affect a new tank?
Is this a good time to switch to a tankless unit?
How do I find out which water provider serves my address?
More plumbing services in Firestone
Water Heater Replacement nearby
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