Water-heater Replacement
Water-heater Replacement | Plumbing | Calhoun
When your morning shower turns unexpectedly cold, HEP makes warmth flow again for homes and businesses across Calhoun. Our certified technicians specialize in water-heater replacement that’s swift, tidy, and tailored to your household’s hot-water demands. From energy-efficient tankless models to traditional tanks, we assess your needs, haul away the old unit, and have steaming water back at your taps—often the same day.
Behind every install is 20+ years of trusted craftsmanship and transparent pricing. We handle all permitting, electrical hookups, and, of course, top-quality plumbing connections, so you can relax knowing everything is code-compliant and leak-free. Call HEP today and feel the difference the next time you twist the hot-water knob.
FAQs
How can I tell if my current water heater needs to be replaced instead of repaired?
In Calhoun’s hard-water climate, traditional tank heaters last 8–12 years and tankless units 15–20. Warning signs include rusty or discolored hot water, rumbling or popping noises, moisture around the base, rising energy bills, and repeated pilot-light or heating-element failures. If the unit is near the end of its life span and repairs exceed 50 % of the cost of a new unit, replacement is usually the smarter, more economical choice.
Which types of replacement water heaters are available and how do I choose the right one for my home?
Homeowners in Calhoun can choose from gas or electric tank heaters, high-efficiency heat-pump (hybrid) tanks, and on-demand tankless models. Gas tanks heat quickly and keep operating costs modest where natural gas is available. Electric tanks cost less up front and are a good fit for smaller households. Heat-pump units use ambient air to cut energy use up to 60 %, making them ideal for basements or garages. Tankless heaters offer endless hot water and space savings while lowering energy bills 20–40 %, but they require larger-diameter gas lines or upgraded electrical service. A plumbing professional will size the unit based on the number of fixtures, peak-hour demand, fuel availability, and your budget.
How much does water-heater replacement typically cost in Calhoun?
Prices vary with size, fuel, and efficiency rating. In 2024, a standard 40- to 50-gallon gas or electric tank installed runs $1,100–$1,700. Heat-pump hybrids range from $2,000–$3,200 installed, while whole-house tankless systems average $2,300–$3,800 because of venting and line upgrades. Costs include the new heater, removal and disposal of the old unit, permit fees, labor, new supply lines, an expansion tank (required by code), and any needed code upgrades such as drip pans or seismic strapping.
Do I need a permit or inspection for a water-heater replacement in Calhoun, GA?
Yes. Gordon County and the City of Calhoun require a plumbing permit for any water-heater replacement that involves gas or potable-water connections. After installation, a county or city inspector confirms that the heater is properly vented, pressure-relief valve piping meets code, an expansion tank is installed on closed systems, and combustion-air clearances are adequate. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures the permit is pulled, the work passes inspection, and you remain compliant with local building and safety codes.
How long does a professional water-heater replacement take, and will I be without water all day?
Most straightforward tank-for-tank swaps are completed in three to four hours, including draining the old tank, setting and leveling the new unit, reconnecting water, gas or electricity, and filling and testing the system. Tankless or heat-pump installations that require new venting, condensate drains, or gas-line upsizing can take six to eight hours. Your hot-water service is typically offline only during the actual replacement window; cold-water service to the rest of the home remains available.
What maintenance should I perform on my new water heater to maximize its life span and efficiency?
1) Drain 2–3 gallons from the tank every six months to flush sediment; for tankless units, descale with vinegar annually. 2) Inspect the anode rod every two to three years and replace when more than 50 % depleted. 3) Test the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve yearly. 4) Keep the thermostat at 120 °F to reduce scalding risk and energy use. 5) Make sure the area around the heater stays clear for airflow and inspection. Scheduling a professional tune-up once a year can catch minor issues before they become costly repairs and will keep most manufacturers’ warranties valid.