Broken Water Heater Restoration in Des Plaines, IL
A malfunctioning water heater can throw your routine into chaos, no hot showers, inconsistent water temperatures, or even sudden leaks can signal trouble. Beyond the inconvenience of losing hot water, a faulty water heater can lead to leaks that cause serious water damage throughout your home. Acting quickly is essential: contacting a qualified technician to repair or replace the unit, as well as a restoration specialist to address any water damage, can prevent further issues.
At ServiceMaster S&R Systems, we specialize in providing water damage restoration caused by broken or leaking water heaters in Des Plaines, IL. Our experienced team can quickly extract water, thoroughly dry affected areas, and restore your home to a safe, damage-free condition. Additionally, we can connect you with trusted professionals who can repair or replace your water heater, ensuring your home’s plumbing and comfort are fully restored.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair
Not sure whether your water heater is still performing the way it should? Identifying early warning signs can save you from a complete system failure, expensive replacements, and potential water damage. Below are several indicators that it’s time to call a professional:
- Lack of Hot Water
If your water isn’t warming up, or you run out much faster than usual, there may be an issue with the heating components, thermostat, or internal parts of the unit.
- Unusual Sounds
Hissing, rumbling, or cracking noises often point to hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. This buildup forces the system to work harder and can shorten its lifespan.
- Visible Leaks
Moisture around the base of the heater, dripping connections, or damp flooring are red flags that the tank or its fittings may be failing and need immediate service.
- Discolored or Rust-Tinged Water
Water that appears rusty, cloudy, or yellowish can suggest internal corrosion or worn anode rods, both signs that the tank may be deteriorating from the inside out.
- Odors Coming from Hot Water
A sulfur or “rotten egg” smell often means bacteria are growing inside the tank. This usually requires a professional cleaning or a replacement of the anode rod.
- Temperature Fluctuations
Water that swings from hot to lukewarm can indicate thermostat malfunctions or sediment blocking the heating element from functioning properly.
- Problems With the Pilot Light or Ignition (Gas Models)
A pilot light that repeatedly goes out or a burner that won’t ignite could signal issues with the thermocouple, ignition system, or gas control valve.
How Water Heaters Cause Damage

A failing water heater does more than disrupt your daily routine, it can also create serious water damage if the issue isn’t addressed promptly. Even minor leaks can cause expensive repairs, especially when the appliance sits near drywall, flooring, or other vulnerable materials.
- Tank Damage
Sediment buildup and internal corrosion can weaken the tank over time, eventually causing cracks or complete tank failure. When this happens, water can spill rapidly, soaking floors, subfloors, insulation, and surrounding materials.
- Worn or Loose Components
Damaged valves, fittings, or supply lines can produce slow, steady leaks. These drips often go unnoticed, and by the time they’re discovered, you may already see signs such as warped flooring, peeling paint, or mold growth.
- Excess Pressure
A malfunctioning or blocked pressure relief valve can cause pressure to rise inside the tank. When the tank can’t release that pressure, it may begin to leak or in extreme cases, fail catastrophically, posing both water damage and safety concerns.
- Overflow System Issues
Many water heaters rely on drain pans or overflow piping to manage excess water. If these components clog, crack, or shift out of place, water can spill directly onto surrounding surfaces.
- Hidden or Slow Leaks
Units installed in basements, closets, or garages may leak without being noticed right away. By the time the problem becomes obvious, moisture may have already spread, contributing to structural damage, odors, or mold growth.
Broke Water Heater Restoration
Water damage from a leaking water heater will continue to spread and worsen until the source is addressed. At ServiceMaster S&R Systems, we offer complete water damage restoration services to remove moisture, prevent further damage, and return your home to a safe, dry condition. We can also connect you with trusted local professionals who can repair or replace your water heater, and we assist with the insurance process to make recovery as smooth as possible.
Our water damage restoration services include:
- 24/7 emergency response
- Fast extraction of standing water
- Thorough drying and dehumidification of affected areas
- Mold prevention and remediation
- Structural repairs and restoration
- Assistance with filing and managing insurance claims
Call ServiceMaster S&R Systems for Water Damage Restoration from a Broken Water Heater
If a broken or leaking water heater has led to water damage in your home, immediate action is essential. ServiceMaster S&R Systems is on call 24/7 to respond to water emergencies, begin cleanup right away, and prevent the damage from spreading. Our specialists handle everything from water removal and thorough drying to complete structural repairs. We can also connect you with a reliable professional to fix or replace your water heater so the issue doesn’t return.
For fast, expert help with water heater-related water damage in Des Plaines, IL, call us today at (630) 896-0030.