Our Specialty

Water Heater Replacement

When your water heater gives out, everything stops. Walsh Plumbing replaces gas, electric & tankless water heaters for homes throughout Kenosha, Racine & Lake County. In most cases we can replace it the same day you call, and we haul the old tank away. Every job is sized correctly, installed to code, and explained in plain language. We've been doing it the right way since 1953.

Call (262) 862-2424
Vintage engraved illustration of a water heater being moved on a hand truck

Signs It's Time to Replace

Most tank water heaters last around 8 to 12 years. If yours is in that range and showing any of these signs, it's worth a call before a slow problem turns into a flooded basement.

Leaking at the Base

Water pooling around the tank usually means the tank itself is failing, and that can't be repaired.

Running Out of Hot Water

Showers going cold sooner than they used to, or a tank that's too small for a growing household.

Rusty or Discolored Water

Brown or rusty hot water can point to corrosion inside the tank.

Rumbling & Popping Noises

Sediment built up over years hardens at the bottom of the tank, making it work harder and wear out faster.

10+ Years Old

An older tank is living on borrowed time. Replacing it on your schedule beats replacing it in an emergency.

Repairs Adding Up

When you're paying for repair after repair, a new, more efficient unit is often the better investment.

Replacement Options

We'll recommend the right fit for your home, your hot water needs, and your budget, not the most expensive unit on the truck.

Gas Tank Water Heaters

The most common choice in Wisconsin and Illinois homes. Reliable, fast recovery, and a straightforward like-for-like swap in most basements.

Electric Tank Water Heaters

A good fit for homes without natural gas service, installed with the correct wiring and safety checks.

Tankless Water Heaters

Endless hot water, a wall-mounted footprint, and lower standby energy loss. See our tankless water heater FAQs.

Water heater installed by Walsh Plumbing

How a Replacement Works

Every replacement starts with a look at what you have now and how your household uses hot water, so the new unit is sized right the first time.

  • Sizing recommendation based on your home and usage
  • Removal and haul-away of your old water heater
  • Installation to manufacturer spec & local code
  • Gas, venting & water connections checked for safety
  • Full test and walkthrough before we leave
  • Our 1-year warranty on the installation

Brands & Warranty

We install trusted names and stand behind the work. Every replacement is backed by the manufacturer and by us.

Brands We Install

Richmond, Rheem, and Bradford White. We'll help you choose the one that fits your home and budget.

Manufacturer Warranty

6 years on the tank and 1 year on parts, with extended 9- and 12-year tank warranties available.

Our Workmanship Warranty

We warranty our installation, and everything else we do, for 1 year.

Same-Day Replacement

In most cases we replace your water heater the day you call. Booked solid? We'll often come after hours.

Illustration of generations of plumbers passing a wrench

Repair or Replace? We'll Tell You Straight

Not every water heater problem means a new unit. A bad thermostat, element, or gas valve can often be repaired. If a repair makes more sense, we'll say so.

If the tank is leaking, badly corroded, or near the end of its life, we'll explain why replacement is the better value and walk you through your options before any work begins.

Water Heater Replacement FAQs

How long does a water heater last?

A traditional tank water heater typically lasts around 8 to 12 years. Tankless units can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Hard water and skipped maintenance can shorten either.

How long does a water heater replacement take?

A straightforward like-for-like tank replacement is usually completed in a single visit. Switching fuel types, moving the unit, or upgrading to tankless can take longer. We'll give you a clear timeline up front.

What size water heater do I need?

It depends on your household size, number of bathrooms, and how much hot water you use at once. Bigger isn't always better. An oversized tank wastes energy keeping water hot you never use. We'll size it for how your home actually runs.

Should I switch to a tankless water heater?

Tankless can be a great upgrade for endless hot water and space savings, but it costs more up front and may need gas line or electrical changes. Our tankless FAQ covers the details, and we're happy to compare both options for your home.

My water heater just quit. Can you replace it today?

In most cases, yes. Same-day replacement is our normal. If the schedule is already full, we'll often come out after hours to get your hot water back. Call us at (262) 862-2424.

What warranty comes with a new water heater?

The tank models we install carry a 6-year manufacturer warranty on the tank and 1 year on parts. Extended 9- and 12-year tank warranties are available for a little more; ask us and we'll give you a straight answer on whether the upgrade is worth it for you. On top of that, we warranty our installation for 1 year.

How can I pay?

We accept credit cards, and you'll know the price before any work begins.

Ready for a New Water Heater?

Call today for a no-pressure estimate on water heater replacement, tank or tankless.

Call (262) 862-2424