- HEP Plumbing
- High-efficiency Upgrade

High-efficiency Upgrade
High-efficiency Upgrade | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Cowan
Discover how effortless comfort can be with HEP’s high-efficiency upgrade plumbing solutions in Cowan. By swapping out an aging tank for a streamlined tank water heater, you’ll enjoy faster hot-water delivery, lower utility bills, and the peace of mind that comes from cutting-edge safety features. Each unit is sized precisely to your household’s needs, so every shower, dish cycle, and laundry load feels reliably warm—without wasting a drop of energy.
From the first phone call to the final system flush, our certified technicians handle everything: seamless removal of your old tank, meticulous installation of your new tank water heater, and a thorough efficiency check before we leave. With transparent pricing, generous warranties, and 24/7 support, HEP makes the decision to upgrade as easy as turning on the tap. Ready to save money and elevate everyday comfort? Let’s schedule your Cowan installation today.
FAQs
What makes a high-efficiency tank water heater different from a standard unit?
High-efficiency (HE) tank water heaters use better insulation, condensing or heat-pump technology, and more precise combustion controls to convert a higher percentage of the fuel or electricity into usable hot water. Standard gas units are roughly 0.58–0.62 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), while HE gas models reach 0.67–0.90 UEF; electric heat-pump models can exceed 3.0 UEF. The result is lower energy use, faster recovery times, and reduced standby heat losses without giving up the familiar storage-tank format.
How much can I save on energy bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency tank water heater in Cowan?
Savings depend on local utility rates and your family’s hot-water demand, but homeowners in the Cowan area typically cut water-heating costs 20–60 %. For a four-person household using natural gas, that can translate into $80–$150 per year; for an electric heat-pump model, savings may reach $250+ annually. Over the 10- to 15-year life of the appliance, most customers recover the entire upgrade cost and enjoy several years of net savings.
Are rebates or incentives available in Cowan for installing an ENERGY STAR® high-efficiency tank water heater?
Yes. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) EnergyRight® program and some local co-ops offer $150–$600 rebates for qualifying ENERGY STAR heat-pump or condensing gas units. Federal tax credits of up to 30 % of the project cost (capped at $600 for gas or $2,000 for heat-pump models) are also in effect under the Inflation Reduction Act. Our office handles the paperwork, submits proof of installation, and deducts instant rebates whenever possible, so you realize the savings immediately.
Will a high-efficiency tank water heater work with my existing plumbing, gas, or electrical connections?
In most cases, yes. HE gas units fit the same 40- to 75-gallon footprints as standard tanks and tie into existing cold-water, hot-water, gas, and vent lines. Condensing models may need a PVC condensate drain and side-wall vent. Heat-pump electric units require a 240-V, 30-A circuit—usually the same as your current electric water heater—and at least 750 cu ft of ambient air or a louvered door for closet installs. During our free on-site evaluation we confirm clearances, venting routes, and electrical load so there are no surprises on installation day.
How long does installation take and will I be without hot water?
A straightforward replacement takes 2–4 hours for gas and 3–5 hours for heat-pump electric models. We schedule installations so your old heater stays in service until the new unit is ready to set; total hot-water downtime is usually under two hours. Complex upgrades that add new venting or electrical circuits may extend the job to a single full day, but we notify you in advance and provide temporary hot-water solutions for critical operations if needed.
What maintenance and lifespan should I expect from a high-efficiency tank water heater?
HE tank water heaters last 10–15 years on average—similar to standard models but with lower operating costs. To maximize life span: 1) flush the tank annually to remove sediment, 2) inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years, 3) clean heat-pump air filters quarterly, and 4) test the temperature-pressure relief valve yearly. Our Comfort Club plan covers these tasks and maintains the manufacturer’s warranty, which ranges from 6- to 12-year parts and tank coverage plus 3- to 5-year labor protection.