Water heaters don’t last forever. In fact, most standard tank-style water heaters have an average life expectancy of about 8 to 12 years. With regular upkeep (such as flushing the tank and replacing anode rods), you might get towards the higher end of that range, but once your unit is around 10 years old or more it’s wise to start planning for a replacement.

Gas water heaters tend to last around 8–12 years, while electric models may last slightly longer (around 10–15 years with proper maintenance). After a decade of heating water day-in and day-out, even the best water heaters can start to wear out.

How do you know if your water heater is failing or “defunct”?

Look for these common signs of water heater trouble:

• Rusty or discolored hot water: If reddish-brown or murky water comes out of your hot tap, the tank may be rusting internally. This often indicates the water heater is deteriorating and could start leaking soon.

• Rumbling or banging noises: Loud popping, rumbling, or gurgling sounds from the tank mean sediment has built up and hardened at the bottom. The sediment causes noise as water heats and is a sign your heater is overworking and likely to fail without intervention.

• Inconsistent or no hot water: When your heater stops delivering consistent hot water – for example, you get lukewarm or cold water even after it’s been running – there could be a heating element or burner malfunction. A lack of hot water entirely is a definite red flag that something is wrong.

• Water leaks or moisture around the tank: Puddles, dripping, or noticeable moisture near the unit are often due to a leak in the tank or a failing connection. A leaking tank generally cannot be repaired and is a strong indicator that a replacement is needed to prevent a flood.

• Old age (10+ years): Simply the age of the unit is a key factor. Water heaters around or above 10 years old are much more prone to problems. If your heater is a decade old (or you’re not sure of its age), have it inspected – it may be time to upgrade before it fails catastrophically.

If you’re noticing one or more of these warning signs, it’s time to take action.

The last thing you want is a sudden hot water outage – or worse, a burst tank – in the middle of a busy week or during a cold winter day.

Fortunately, Rocketship Plumbing is just a call away for water heater replacement in Gwinnett County, whether it’s a planned upgrade or an emergency swap-out.

Not sure if your water heater truly needs to be replaced? That’s where our professional inspection and diagnosis comes in.

When you schedule a visit, our licensed plumber will perform a thorough assessment of your current water heater. We’ll check all the critical components and symptoms to determine whether a repair or a replacement is the best solution. In some cases, a minor fix is all that’s needed – for example, replacing a thermostat, heating element, or pressure relief valve can address issues like inconsistent water temperatures or a small leak at a fitting. We always aim to diagnose a defunct water heater accurately and honestly, so you can make an informed decision.

During the inspection, our expert will consider factors like the unit’s age, the extent of any damage or corrosion, and the source of any malfunctions. If the water heater tank itself is leaking or heavily rusted, or if the unit is well past its prime, replacement is usually the safest and most cost-effective choice. For example, a leaky tank cannot be repaired – the only solution is to install a new unit. On the other hand, if the problem is something like a faulty heating element on an electric water heater or a bad thermocouple on a gas unit, and the system is otherwise in good shape, a targeted repair might get you a few more years of service.

Our plumber will also check your home’s hot water needs and current setup. We’ll verify the capacity (gallon size) of your existing tank, the fuel type (gas or electric), and examine the venting, piping, and location of the unit. This helps us determine the right replacement options if needed. Every household is different – the number of occupants, peak hot water usage times, and even the local water quality (hard water can shorten heater life) are all considered.

Thanks to our experience in the Gwinnett County area, we’re familiar with common water heater models installed in homes 10–30+ years old. We know what to look for and can quickly identify when a water heater is beyond repair. Before proceeding, we’ll explain our findings and recommendations to you clearly. If a new water heater is in order, we’ll guide you on the best replacement unit for your home and budget.

When you entrust Rocketship Plumbing with your water heater replacement, we handle the entire process from start to finish with professionalism and care. Replacing a water heater is a multi-step job that should always be done by a qualified professional for safety and compliance reasons.

Here’s what to expect when you schedule a water heater installation in Gwinnett County with us:

• Shut-Off & Drainage: For everyone’s safety, we begin by turning off the water heater’s power supply (electricity at the breaker or gas valve, depending on the unit) and shutting off the water inlet valve. Next, we attach a hose and drain the old tank completely via the drain valve, usually into a nearby floor drain or outdoors. Draining the tank removes hot water and sediment, making the unit lighter and safer to remove. During this phase, we also vent any remaining pressure and ensure no gas is flowing (for gas heaters) before moving forward.

• Disconnecting & Removing the Old Unit: Once the tank is emptied, our plumber will disconnect all the water lines, gas line or electrical wiring, and vent pipe (for gas units) attached to your old water heater. We use proper tools and techniques to avoid any damage to your home’s plumbing or electrical systems. After everything is safely disconnected, we carefully remove the old water heater from its location. (Don’t worry – we’ll haul away the old unit for you and dispose of it in accordance with local regulations, so you’re not left with the heavy old tank.) If the water heater was in a tight space or an elevated platform, we have the expertise to maneuver it out without any mess.

• Professional Installation of the New Water Heater: Now it’s time to get your new water heater set up. We position the new tank (having already helped you select the ideal model and size for your needs) in place, aligning it with existing connections. Our team will reconnect the cold water supply and hot water output lines securely to the new unit, using quality fittings and new flex pipes as needed. For gas heaters, we also reconnect the gas supply line and ensure the flue vent pipe is properly attached and sealed, taking care of any necessary adjustments or new vent components. If the installation requires soldering copper pipes or adjusting the venting configuration, we handle all those technical steps to meet code requirements. We also install any new shutoff valves or expansion tanks if they are needed to bring your system up to current code. Throughout the installation, we pay attention to every detail – from leveling the unit and setting the correct temperature on the thermostat, to applying pipe sealant tape on connections – to guarantee a safe, leak-free setup.

• Testing, Cleanup & Guidance: After installation, we don’t just pack up and leave. We refill the tank with water, restore power or relight the gas burner, and then thoroughly test the new water heater. This includes checking that the burner or heating elements fire up correctly, verifying the thermostat and controls work, and inspecting all connections for leaks. For gas units, we also perform a safety test on the venting system (for example, using a match or sensor to ensure proper draft up the flue). Once we confirm the heater is heating and operating normally, we clean up the work area. All old parts and packaging are removed. We’ll haul away your old water heater tank as mentioned, so you’re not left with that eyesore or the headache of disposal. Finally, we’ll brief you on your new water heater’s key features and any maintenance tips to help you get the most out of it. You’ll have hot water flowing and peace of mind that the job was done right!

How long does a water heater replacement take?

In most cases, we complete the entire removal and installation in a single visit. A straightforward “tank-to-tank” replacement (installing a new unit similar to the old one) typically takes our professionals about 2 to 4 hours on average. Factors like the ease of access, whether we’re switching fuel types or relocating the unit, and the condition of existing piping can affect the total time.

Rest assured, we work efficiently without cutting corners. We know you want your hot water back as soon as possible, so we aim for same-day installation whenever feasible.

By the time we’re done, you’ll have a brand new water heater producing plenty of hot water for your home.

When investing in a new water heater, the product’s quality is just as important as the installation. Rocketship Plumbing installs and works with trusted water heater brands known for their performance and reliability. We’ll never put in a subpar unit just to save a few bucks – our goal is to provide you with a water heater that will serve your family well for years to come.

Some of the popular water heater brands we handle include Rheem, A.O. Smith, Bradford White, American Standard and others.

These manufacturers are among the top in the industry for tank-style water heaters. They offer robust tanks, efficient heating technology, and solid warranties that protect your investment.

For example, Rheem (a brand many homeowners recognize) produces a range of highly rated gas and electric water heaters. They’re known for innovative features and long lifespans – a Rheem tank water heater can often last 8 to 15 years with good maintenance. A.O. Smith is another leading name; they offer everything from budget-friendly models to high-efficiency units, and many come with 6- to 10-year warranties for peace of mind.

Bradford White is a favorite among plumbing professionals for its build quality and support – their water heaters are built to last (often a decade or more) and are only sold through authorized dealers/installers, which ensures you get a professional installation (required for their warranty).

American Standard, likewise, has a reputation for durable, long-lasting heaters; in fact, one of their points of pride is using heavy-duty tank construction to resist corrosion for longer than average.

We know navigating all the brands and models can be overwhelming. Part of our service is to help you choose the ideal new water heater for your home’s needs. We’ll factor in the size of your household, your peak hot water usage, whether you prefer gas or electric, and your budget.

Thanks to our expertise, we can recommend the make and model that strikes the right balance of capacity, efficiency, and cost. Rest assured that whichever brand you go with, if Rocketship Plumbing is installing it, it’s a brand we trust.

We stay up-to-date on the latest water heater offerings from these major brands, so we can answer your questions about differences in warranty, maintenance, and features (like leak detection sensors or vacation modes on newer units).

Our goal is to set you up with a water heater that will deliver safe, energy-efficient performance for many years, with minimal headaches.

Water heater replacement is not a DIY job for most homeowners – and that’s a good thing. There are significant benefits to having a licensed professional plumber handle the inspection, removal, and installation of your new water heater.

Here’s why choosing Rocketship Plumbing for the job is the smart move:

• Safety and Code Compliance: Water heaters involve electricity, natural gas lines, and plumbing connections – all of which must be handled correctly to avoid dangerous situations. Our plumbers are trained to follow all safety protocols, from properly shutting off utilities to checking for gas leaks. We also ensure your installation meets local building codes and permit requirements. (In many areas, installing a new water heater actually requires a permit and code inspection for things like seismic strapping, expansion tanks, or proper venting.) As a licensed contractor familiar with Gwinnett County and Georgia codes, we take care of any necessary permits and make sure your new installation is 100% up to code. This protects your home and your warranty, and gives you peace of mind that your water heater is installed safely.

• Expertise in Selecting the Right Unit: With so many brands and models on the market, how do you know which water heater is best for you? This is where our experience is invaluable. A professional plumber can help you choose the best water heater based on your home’s size, number of occupants, usage patterns, and even the local climate and water conditions. We won’t oversell you on a huge tank you don’t need, but we’ll make sure not to undersize your heater either. Factors like recovery rate, energy efficiency, and tank capacity are all considered. By letting an expert guide you, you’ll end up with a water heater that suits your needs perfectly – no more cold showers or running out of hot water because the unit was mismatched to your household.

• Preserving Your Warranty: Most water heater manufacturers require professional installation for the warranty to be valid. This is a crucial point that homeowners may not realize. For instance, Rheem’s warranty fine print and Bradford White’s policy both state that a licensed professional must install the unit – otherwise, you might not be covered if something goes wrong. By using Rocketship Plumbing, you’ll satisfy this requirement. We will also fill out or log your warranty information as needed, and we can assist with any warranty claims in the future. Skipping professional installation could not only lead to operational issues, it could leave you footing the bill for repairs that would have been covered under warranty. Don’t take that risk!

• Quality Workmanship and Reliability: Our local Gwinnett County plumbers take pride in doing the job right. Proper installation isn’t just about making the new heater work; it’s about ensuring longevity and efficiency. We use high-quality connectors, ensure tight seals on all fittings, and calibrate the system so it operates at optimal settings. Professional installation can extend the lifespan of your water heater compared to a shoddy installation. It also prevents common pitfalls like poor venting (which can cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup), inadequate combustion air supply, or improper drainage of the T&P relief valve. With Rocketship Plumbing, you get the benefit of many years of hands-on experience – we’ve installed water heaters in all types of homes, from 20-year-old suburban houses to brand new constructions. Our team knows the quirks of older plumbing systems found in homes 10–30+ years old around Lawrenceville, Suwanee, and other local communities, and how to adapt to them. When we’re done, you can trust that your hot water system will be running safely and efficiently.

• Fast Service and Convenience: Hiring a professional also means minimal downtime and hassle for you. We know a failing water heater can be stressful – that’s why we strive for same-day or next-day service whenever possible. Our crew comes prepared with the new unit and all necessary parts, so we can typically swap out your water heater in just a few hours and have your hot water back on the same day. We handle the heavy lifting, the cleanup, and the technical details, so you don’t have to lift a finger. And unlike a big-box store subcontractor, our team truly cares about your satisfaction and will treat your home with respect. Many of our customers are thrilled by how easy we make the process: no mess, no headaches, and a quick turnaround.

In short, professional installation by Rocketship Plumbing ensures the job is done correctly, safely, and efficiently.

You’re investing in quality workmanship that protects your home. Plus, our team is friendly and approachable – we’ll answer all your questions and make sure you feel confident in how to operate and care for your new water heater.

It’s this personalized, expert service that sets us apart and has made us a top choice for water heater replacement in Gwinnett County.

Rocketship Plumbing is proud to be based in Lawrenceville and to serve the entire Gwinnett County community. We know the area, the homes, and the unique needs of our neighbors.

Our service area includes Lawrenceville, Suwanee, Snellville, Buford, Duluth, Norcross, Dacula, and every town in between. No matter which part of Gwinnett County you call home, our team is ready to provide prompt, precise, and professional plumbing service whenever you need it. We’ve worked on water heaters in two-story suburban houses, ranch homes built in the ‘90s, modern townhouses, and everything else. This familiarity with local construction means we can quickly diagnose issues and know exactly how to tackle any installation challenges on site.

If you’re looking for a reliable Suwanee plumber for your tank water heater, or you need an urgent water heater replacement in Lawrenceville, GA, look no further. We combine the resources and expertise of a larger company with the personal touch of a small local business.

Our reputation is built on trust – just check out our testimonials to see how we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Gwinnett County with their hot water and plumbing needs.

We also serve parts of the greater Metro Atlanta area, so even if you’re just outside Gwinnett, give us a call to see if we can assist.

Ready to restore your home’s hot water with a new reliable heater? Getting started is easy and risk-free. Rocketship Plumbing offers free quotes for water heater installation and replacement.

Simply reach out to us to schedule an on-site assessment at a time that’s convenient for you. We’ll come evaluate your current heater (or discuss your needs if you don’t have a working unit at the moment) and provide a no-obligation estimate for the work.

Our pricing is transparent, and we often present a couple of options (for example, a standard model vs. a high-efficiency model) so you can choose what fits your budget and preferences.

To request your free quote, visit our Contact Us page and fill out the quick form.

Be sure to include your address and any details about your water heater issue. You can even select a preferred appointment date and time through our scheduling form, so we come when it suits your calendar.

Alternatively, feel free to give us a call at the number listed on that page – our friendly staff will be happy to assist in booking your appointment. We understand that a failing water heater can be urgent, so we do our best to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments whenever possible.

Once scheduled, our licensed plumber will arrive on time, in uniform, ready to help. You’ll get a thorough evaluation and all your questions answered. If you choose to proceed with the replacement, we can often do the job right then and there (if we have arranged the unit) or set up a prompt return visit. There’s no pressure – just straight answers and professional service. Our goal is to make the water heater replacement process smooth and stress-free for you, from the initial quote to the final installation.

Don’t let an old, unreliable water heater disrupt your daily life. Whether your current unit has completely failed or you’re proactively upgrading before it does, Rocketship Plumbing is here to ensure you have a dependable supply of hot water. With our expertise in water heater inspection, removal, and installation, you can trust that your home is in good hands. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with professional service, quality products from top brands like Rheem, A.O. Smith, and Bradford White, and a team that truly cares about your satisfaction.

Contact Rocketship Plumbing today to schedule your free water heater quote and take the first step toward improved comfort and efficiency in your home.

We’re the local water heater experts that Gwinnett County homeowners rely on – and we’re ready to help you launch into a new era of hot water reliability!