In Lafayette, a water heater that will not heat or leaks usually needs a single part replaced, like an element, thermostat, igniter, thermocouple or valve, and a plumber can often take care of it the same visit. Water leaking from the tank body means a new heater. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Lafayette.
Lafayette grew out of a coal-mining and farming past into a suburban city in southeastern Boulder County, so homes range from older houses around Old Town to newer subdivisions. The City of Lafayette runs its own water utility, drawing surface water from Baseline Reservoir, Waneka Reservoir and two Goose Haven reservoirs, and chlorine is the disinfectant measured in its distribution system. The report does not state hardness, so sediment levels are something a plumber checks by draining the tank.
What to do right now
- Check for a simple cause. A tripped breaker on an electric heater or an unlit pilot on a gas one.
- Turn off a leaking heater. Shut off power or gas and close the cold supply valve above the tank.
- Know the dividing line. Lafayette owns the service line from the main to the meter pit; everything from the meter pit to the house, including the heater, is the owner's.
- Smell gas? Leave. Exit the house, then call 911 and your gas utility from outside. The utility's emergency number is on your gas bill.
- Write down the label. Brand, gallons, fuel type and date.
Symptoms and likely causes
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| No hot water | High-limit trip, element, thermostat, igniter or thermocouple |
| Hot water runs short | Lower element, sediment or broken dip tube |
| Rumbling or popping | Sediment over the burner or around the elements |
| Relief valve dripping | Worn valve, overheating or thermal expansion |
| Puddle under the tank | Fittings, drain valve or a failed tank |
What affects the cost
- The part. Elements and thermostats are minor; gas valves and burners cost more.
- Access. Older Old Town basements and closets take longer than garage installs.
- Related fixes. Corroded shutoffs or a missing expansion tank add time.
- Replacement and permits. The City of Lafayette Planning and Building Department's Building Division issues building permits, with an inspection request line at 303-604-3822; ask the plumber what your job needs.
For a water main break or sewer backup in the street on a weekend or after hours, Lafayette directs residents to Boulder County Dispatch at 303-441-4444. A heater that will not heat, though, is a plumber's job.
Water Heater Repair questions in Lafayette
Should I call the water utility or a plumber about a hot water problem?
Why would an electric water heater stop making hot water all at once?
How often should a tank water heater be flushed?
What should I do if I smell gas near the water heater?
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