- HEP Plumbing
- Water-heater Failures

Water-heater Failures
Water-heater Failures | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Dunlap
When a water heater bursts at midnight or rusted valves start spewing scalding water, Dunlap homeowners know they can count on HEP’s water-heater failures plumbing team to arrive fast and fix the problem for good. Our licensed technicians roll out with fully stocked trucks, isolate the leak in minutes, and restore hot water without upselling you on equipment you don’t need. That’s the kind of straight-talk service HEP has delivered in Sequatchie County for more than three decades, backed by fair, transparent pricing and a satisfaction guarantee.
Whether you’re dealing with a flooded crawl space, a pilot light that won’t stay lit, or sudden loss of hot water during a holiday dinner, our 24/7 emergency plumbing expertise is only a phone call away. From precision diagnostics to same-day replacements, we handle everything on site—so you can get back to warm showers, clean dishes, and peace of mind faster than you ever thought possible.
FAQs
What warning signs indicate my water heater is about to fail and I should call for emergency plumbing in Dunlap?
Watch for water pooling around the tank, a sudden lack of hot water, rumbling or popping noises, discolored or rusty water, or a burning-metal smell near a gas unit. Any of these symptoms can signal an imminent tank rupture, failed heating element, or gas control issue that needs immediate professional attention to prevent flooding, scalding, or carbon-monoxide hazards.
What should I do while waiting for an emergency plumber if my water heater is leaking?
First, shut off the cold-water supply valve located on the pipe entering the top of the tank to stop additional water from filling the unit. Next, cut power to the heater—switch off the breaker for an electric model or turn the gas control knob to “pilot” for a gas unit. Finally, place towels or a bucket under the leak and clear valuables from the area. These steps minimize water damage until our Dunlap emergency crew arrives.
How fast can your Dunlap emergency plumbing team reach my home for a water-heater failure?
We have technicians on call 24/7 within the Dunlap area. In most cases we can arrive in 60 minutes or less. Our vans are stocked with common replacement parts—thermocouples, heating elements, pressure-relief valves, and flex lines—so we can start repairs immediately and restore hot water the same visit whenever possible.
Do you handle both gas and electric water-heater emergencies, and can you work on tankless units?
Yes. Our licensed plumbers are trained to diagnose and repair traditional tank-style heaters (gas or electric) and modern tankless/on-demand systems. We carry combustion analyzers for gas units, voltage testers for electric elements, and descaling pumps for tankless flushing. Whether the issue is a faulty gas valve, burned-out element, or blocked heat exchanger, we have the tools and parts to correct it safely and quickly.
Will my water heater need to be replaced, or can you repair it on the spot?
About 70% of emergency calls end with a same-day repair—replacing a leaking valve, failed thermostat, or corroded anode rod often restores full function. If the tank itself is ruptured or over 10–12 years old, replacement is usually more cost-effective. We’ll provide a clear diagnosis, show you the options, and if a new unit is needed, we can install an energy-efficient model the same day to minimize downtime.
How much does emergency water-heater service in Dunlap cost, and are after-hours visits extra?
We charge a flat diagnostic fee that covers travel and a full inspection, even after normal business hours. Repair pricing depends on the part required but we provide an up-front quote before work starts—no surprise add-ons. Typical emergency repairs range from $150–$450. Full replacements start around $1,200 installed, with free haul-away of the old unit. We accept major credit cards, offer short-term financing, and waive overtime surcharges for homeowners enrolled in our annual plumbing maintenance plan.