A Mead water heater that stops heating or drips usually has one failed component, like an element, thermostat, igniter, thermocouple or valve, and a plumber can often replace it the same visit. A tank leaking through its shell needs replacing. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Mead.
Local conditions in Mead
Mead is a Weld County town where utilities depend on which subdivision you live in. The Town does not run its own drinking water utility: water comes from either Little Thompson Water District or Longs Peak Water District, depending on the address. Little Thompson delivers Colorado-Big Thompson water treated at the Carter Lake Filter Plant; Longs Peak treats Carter Lake water at its Kugel Plant on Vermillion Road and supplements it with Little Thompson water in summer. In Little Thompson areas, the district maintains the line from the main to the meter pit, and everything on the house side of the meter is the owner's.
Sewer is split as well. The Town of Mead serves most of town, including Old Town, Coyote Run, Vale View, Feather Ridge, North Creek and The Highlands, while St. Vrain Sanitation District serves the south, including Liberty Ranch. Even gas varies: Mead is split between Xcel Energy and Black Hills Energy, and your gas bill tells you which one serves your home.
The Town of Mead Building Division issues permits, with SAFEbuilt handling building questions and inspection requests at 303.774.0454. The Town's page does not spell out water heater permit rules, so ask the plumber or the Building Division before a replacement.
Repair or replace
| Situation | Repair fits when | Replacement fits when |
|---|---|---|
| No hot water | One element, thermostat, igniter or thermocouple failed | The tank is leaking too |
| Water on the floor | The drain valve, relief valve or a fitting is the source | Water seeps from the tank wall |
| Short hot water | Lower element or dip tube is bad | Sediment has damaged an older tank |
| Rusty hot water | The anode rod is spent | The tank is corroding |
Signs to act on
- Popping or rumbling as the heater runs
- A pilot or burner that will not stay lit
- Steady drips from the relief valve pipe
- Rust at the top connections
Seasonal notes
Carter Lake water runs coldest in winter, so heaters work harder and worn parts fail more often from December to February. Have an older tank flushed and tested in fall. If you smell gas, leave the house first, then call 911 and your gas utility from outside: Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-2999, or Black Hills Energy at the number on your bill if Black Hills serves you.
Water Heater Repair questions in Mead
What should I do if I smell gas near the water heater?
Should I call the water utility or a plumber about a hot water problem?
What are the popping and rumbling noises from my water heater?
Does my water heater need an expansion tank?
More plumbing services in Mead
Water Heater Repair nearby
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