Water Heater Repair in Lyons, CO

Lyons is a small foothills town in northern Boulder County where North and South St. Vrain Creeks meet, ringed by red sandstone hills. The Town runs its own water and wastewater utilities inside town limits. Drinking water comes from North St. Vrain Creek, diverted about a half mile upstream of the Town's treatment plant, with Colorado-Big Thompson shares and storage in Button Rock Reservoir as backup. Creek water runs cold in winter, which makes heaters work harder, and foothills cold snaps can freeze inlet lines in unheated spaces.

What to do now

1. Check the basics. Breaker for an electric heater, pilot or ignition for gas.
2. Stop a leak. Turn off the power or gas and close the cold water valve above the tank.
3. Look for freeze damage. If the heater sits in a cold space, check the inlet line and drain valve for cracks.
4. Smell gas? Get out. Leave the house, then call 911 and Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-2999 from outside.
5. Grab the label details. Brand, size, fuel type and date.

Signs and likely causes

What affects the cost

• Part type. Thermostats and elements are minor; gas valves and burners cost more.
• Freeze damage. Cracked fittings or lines near the heater add to the repair.
• Access. Older homes downtown can have tight basements or closets.
• Permits on replacement. The Town contracts with SAFEbuilt for all building department work, including permits through the Community Core system and inspections at 303-774-0454. Boulder County has no building code jurisdiction inside town.

If the leak investigation leads beyond the heater, note that Lyons homeowners are responsible for the sewer line running from their property to the Town main, and the Town asks residents not to flush wipes or pour grease down drains. Properties with a Lyons ZIP outside town limits may have different water and sewer arrangements.