Water Heater Installation and Repair in New Bern, NC

Hot Water Problems? We’ll Help You Fix Them Fast

When your water heater fails, your entire routine gets thrown off—showers go cold, dishes pile up, and comfort goes out the window. That’s why homeowners across New Bern, NC, rely on James L. Cayton Associates, Inc., for prompt, professional water heater repair and installation services.


Whether your system just needs a quick fix or it’s time to replace an aging tank with a modern upgrade, our team will walk you through your options and restore hot water fast—with zero guesswork and no unnecessary upsells.

Our Water Heater Services Include

We service and install both traditional tank-style and tankless (on-demand) water heaters for residential properties and light commercial clients. Our licensed team is familiar with a wide range of brands and systems and will help you make the right choice for your home’s water demands and energy usage.

What We Offer:

Gas & Electric Water Heater Repair

Traditional Tank Water Heater Installation

Tankless Water Heater Installation & Service

Pilot Light & Thermostat Repairs

Sediment Flushing & Maintenance

Expansion Tank & Pressure Valve Replacement

Upgrades to Energy-Efficient Systems

Emergency Water Heater Replacement

Whether you’re dealing with no hot water, rust-colored water, strange noises, or water pooling under your tank, we’ll get to the root of the problem quickly—and fix it properly the first time.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. Here’s how we help you decide:

  • Repair: If your unit is under 8 years old, has minor issues like a failed heating element or thermostat, and hasn’t leaked, it may be worth repairing.
  • Replace: If your tank is over 10–12 years old, showing signs of corrosion, leaking at the base, or has become inefficient, a replacement is typically the smarter and safer option.


We’ll never pressure you either way—we simply give you honest feedback and help you make a decision based on cost, performance, and peace of mind.

Why Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater?

Many homeowners in New Bern and surrounding areas are choosing tankless water heaters for their long-term energy savings and space-saving design.

Here’s why:

  • Instant, on-demand hot water
  • Lower energy bills (no standby heating)
  • Compact size—mount it on a wall
  • Longer lifespan than tank models
  • Great for families or homes with high hot water use


Not sure if a tankless unit is right for your home? We’ll evaluate your water usage and budget, then explain your best-fit options. We install trusted brands like Rinnai, Navien, and Bradford White, and we’ll handle everything from system sizing to post-install testing.

Water Heater Experts Serving New Bern, NC, and Surrounding Communities

We’re proud to serve not just New Bern, but also Trent Woods, Riverbend, Fairfield Harbour, and the greater Craven, Pamlico, and Carteret County areas. Our technicians are familiar with the common plumbing layouts and building codes in this region, which means we can work faster, more efficiently, and with greater precision.


Whether you live in a historic home with older plumbing or a newly built residence needing a fresh install, we have the experience and tools to meet your needs.

Why Homeowners Trust James L. Cayton Associates, Inc.

Since 1953, we’ve been helping Eastern North Carolina homeowners resolve plumbing issues with skill, integrity, and care. When you call us, you’re not just getting a plumber—you’re getting a trusted partner who wants to solve your problem for good.

Over 70 Years Serving Eastern NC

Fully Licensed, Insured & Local

Fast Turnaround Times

Clear Communication, No Upselling

Trusted By Generations Of Homeowners

High-Quality Work With Long-Term Support

Our work isn’t complete until your hot water is flowing—and you’re 100% satisfied with the result. From honest pricing to quality craftsmanship, you can expect professional service from start to 

Schedule Water Heater Repair or Installation Today

If your water heater is acting up—or you're ready to upgrade to a more energy-efficient system—our team is ready to help. Don’t wait for a cold shower to turn into an emergency.

Call James L. Cayton Associates, Inc. at 252-637-9389.

Or request a service visit online, and we’ll schedule a convenient time to get your water heater running like new.

Also, if your issue might be related to other plumbing problems, be sure to explore our services for:

  • Leak Detection & Pipe Repair
  • Faucet & Sink Installation
  • Residential Plumbing


We’re here to make your plumbing problems simple, not stressful.