Licensed Plumbers
Licensed Plumbers | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Chattanooga
HEP’s fully licensed plumbers deliver prompt, courteous service to Chattanooga homeowners who need reliable hot water day after day. Whether you’re replacing an outdated tank water heater, troubleshooting a sudden leak, or simply looking for expert maintenance, our team combines decades of hands-on experience with the latest diagnostic tools to keep your system running safely and efficiently. From scheduling to cleanup, we treat your home with the same care we give our own.
You’ll love our transparent, up-front pricing, satisfaction guarantees, and 24/7 emergency response. Call today and discover why so many neighbors trust HEP for honest advice, master-level workmanship, and a warmer, more comfortable home—all backed by a local company that’s Happy to Help!
FAQs
How can I tell whether my existing tank water heater should be repaired or completely replaced?
A few warning signs usually point to replacement rather than repair: a tank older than 10-12 years, visible corrosion or rust-colored water, recurring leaks around the base, or rumbling/booming noises caused by sediment buildup. If the unit is under 8 years old and the problem is limited to a failed thermostat, heating element, or relief valve, our licensed Chattanooga plumbers can normally repair it at a lower cost. We always perform a full diagnostic—including checking the serial number for age, testing elements, and inspecting the anode rod—before recommending the most cost-effective solution.
How long does it take a licensed plumber to install a new tank water heater in the Chattanooga area?
For a like-for-like replacement in an easily accessible location (garage, utility closet, basement), installation usually takes 2–3 hours. This includes draining and removing the old unit, setting the new tank, reconnecting water, gas or electric, pressure-testing, and hauling away the old heater. If we have to relocate the heater, upgrade gas lines, or add an expansion tank to meet current Chattanooga and Tennessee plumbing codes, the job can extend to 4–6 hours. We schedule most installations the same or next business day after you approve our written estimate.
Do I need a permit to replace my tank water heater, and will your plumbers handle that paperwork?
Yes. The City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County require a plumbing permit for any water heater replacement to ensure the new unit meets local code, safety, and energy standards. Because all of our technicians are state-licensed and insured, we can pull the necessary permits on your behalf, coordinate any required inspections, and provide you with the final approval documentation for your records—saving you time and potential fines.
What size tank water heater is best for my household?
Sizing depends on your family’s peak-hour demand. A household of 1–2 people typically needs a 30–40-gallon electric or gas unit. Three to four people usually require a 40–50-gallon tank, while larger families or homes with high-flow fixtures may need 66–80 gallons. Our plumbers calculate your First Hour Rating (FHR) based on simultaneous shower, laundry, and dishwasher use, and then recommend the right capacity and fuel type (gas, electric, or hybrid heat-pump) to ensure you never run out of hot water while keeping energy costs in check.
What is the typical cost to have a tank water heater installed or replaced by your licensed plumbers?
Prices vary with capacity, fuel type, and code upgrades. In Chattanooga, a standard 40- or 50-gallon electric replacement starts around $1,150 installed, while a comparable atmospheric gas model ranges from $1,250 to $1,600. High-efficiency or power-vent gas units can run $1,800–$2,500, and heat-pump water heaters start around $2,400. Your written quote will list the unit, labor, all parts, permit fees, haul-away, and a workmanship warranty, so you know the total before we begin.
Do you offer emergency tank water heater service in Chattanooga, and which neighborhoods do you cover?
Yes. Our licensed plumbers are on call 24/7 for no-hot-water situations, major leaks, or safety issues like gas odors and pressure-relief valve discharge. We serve the entire Chattanooga metro—including Northshore, Hixson, East Brainerd, Lookout Mountain, Red Bank, Ooltewah, Soddy-Daisy, and Signal Mountain—as well as surrounding communities in Hamilton, Bradley, and Marion counties. Most emergencies are responded to within two hours, and our trucks carry common tank sizes so we can provide same-day replacement whenever possible.