Water Heater Repair in Arvada, CO
Arvada's free program to replace lead and pre-1960 galvanized water lines on private property runs only through December 31, 2026. Its water is soft to moderately hard, averaging about 5 grains per gallon. If your water heater has quit or is leaking, call and get a plumber out.
What shapes water heater trouble in Arvada
Two reservoirs, two plants, moderate hardness
The city treats water from two sources: Ralston Reservoir, filled by Denver Water's North System including Gross Reservoir, and Arvada Reservoir, filled by Ralston Creek and Clear Creek. Its FAQ calls the water soft to moderately hard, ranging from about 20 to 100 mg/L with an average of 84 mg/L, or about 5 grains per gallon. That's enough to leave some sediment in a tank over the years, so a yearly drain and flush is worth doing, but it isn't hard water.
The city says red, yellow, brown or even black water is caused by iron and manganese sediment. If that shows up, run a cold tap until it clears before using hot water, so the sediment doesn't end up in your water heater. To report a main break, a leaking service line or a frozen meter, the city's number is 720-898-7070. Water quality questions go to 720-898-7800.
Free lead and galvanized line replacement ends soon
Arvada says lead and pre-1960 galvanized service lines are prohibited in its water system and should be replaced as soon as possible. For galvanized lines, the program counts any installed before 1960. The city has run a free replacement program for affected properties since May 1, 2024, and it ends December 31, 2026. The property owner is responsible for making sure a lead line is replaced by then. The city also offers a one-time reimbursement for some lines that owners already replaced.
Replacing a service line means the water is shut off for a while. When it comes back, air and loosened sediment can come with it, so open a cold tap first and let it run clear. If your water heater starts popping or spitting after the work, mention the line replacement when you call.
Xcel gas, licensed plumbers and permits
The median Arvada home was built in 1979. About 75% of homes heat with natural gas, which Xcel Energy supplies, and 23% with electricity.
Arvada's handout on the subject says that by statute and the Colorado Plumbing Code, installing or replacing a water heater requires a plumber licensed by the state board, along with a permit and an inspection. The city adds that some water heater installations need extra documentation and a plan review. Building permit questions go to 720-898-7620.
Safe steps for Arvada homes
- Leaking? Close the cold water valve on top of the tank.
- Turn off the gas valve or the breaker for the heater.
- Gas smell? Xcel Energy serves Arvada. Leave the house, call 911 from outside, then Xcel Energy at 800-895-2999.
Where we take calls
Arvada, Jefferson County, ZIP codes 80002, 80003, 80004, 80005, 80007. Not sure your address is covered? Call and we'll check.
Nearby towns
Repair, replacement and emergencies
Water Heater Repair
Gas, electric and tankless repairs, from pilot lights to heating elements.
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No Hot Water
Cold shower this morning? Get the cause found and fixed fast.
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Leaking Water Heater
Water around the tank or a dripping relief valve. Act before it floods.
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Emergency Water Heater Repair
Burst tank, gas smell or water everywhere. Call right away.
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Water Heater Replacement
When repair no longer makes sense, get a new tank or tankless unit.
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Tankless Water Heater Repair
Error codes, lukewarm water and scale buildup on tankless units.
Learn moreArvada water heater questions
Who is the gas company in Arvada, CO?
Xcel Energy lists Arvada for natural gas service. If you smell gas, leave first, call 911 from outside, then Xcel at 800-895-2999.
How hard is Arvada's water?
The city calls it soft to moderately hard: about 20 to 100 mg/L, averaging 84 mg/L, or roughly 5 grains per gallon.
Is Arvada still replacing lead water lines for free?
Yes, through December 31, 2026. The city's free program covers lead and pre-1960 galvanized service lines on private property, and owners are responsible for replacing lead lines by that date.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater in Arvada?
Yes. The city says state law and the Colorado Plumbing Code require a state-licensed plumber, a permit and an inspection for water heater installation or replacement.
Where these local facts come from
- US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024 (via Census Reporter)
- City of Arvada, water quality (sources and treatment)
- City of Arvada, water quality FAQ (hardness, discolored water)
- City of Arvada, water and sewer billing FAQ (reporting main breaks and leaks)
- City of Arvada, service line inventory and replacement program
- City of Arvada, service line replacement program details
- City of Arvada, lead service line replacement reimbursement form
- Xcel Energy, 2022 Colorado communities served (gas and electric key)
- City of Arvada, water heater installations require plumbing license, permit and inspection (handout)
- City of Arvada, residential mechanical and plumbing permits
- City of Arvada, building permits
Figures are the latest published by each source. Pricing and availability are set by the plumber.
No hot water in Arvada?
Call now for water heater repair or replacement.