- HEP Plumbing
- Water Heater

Water Heater
Water Heater | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Farragut
When a water heater bursts at midnight or the pilot light quits on a frosty Farragut morning, every minute counts. HEP’s licensed pros are already on the road, stocked with parts for gas, electric, and tankless units, so you don’t have to wait for relief. We diagnose fast, quote honestly, and back our repairs with solid warranties—because hot water isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
From gushing valves to ominous rumbling tanks, our 24/7 emergency plumbing team restores comfort and prevents costly water damage in one visit. Call, text, or tap the app, and HEP will have your water heater humming again before the chill sets in.
FAQs
What qualifies as a water-heater emergency and how quickly can you reach my home in Farragut?
Any situation that threatens safety, causes active leaking, or leaves you without hot water is considered an emergency. Examples include a ruptured tank, gas leaks, scalding hot water, or a tripped T&P valve releasing steam. Our technicians are on 24/7 dispatch in the Farragut area and can usually arrive within 60–90 minutes, often sooner during normal traffic conditions on Kingston Pike and Concord Road.
How do I shut off my water heater while waiting for the plumber?
1) Turn off the energy source: For gas units, set the gas control knob to “OFF.” For electric units, switch off the dedicated breaker in your main electrical panel. 2) Close the cold-water inlet valve located on the pipe entering the top of the heater—turn it clockwise until it stops. 3) If water is leaking severely, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run the hose to a safe floor drain or outside, then open the valve carefully. These steps minimize further damage until we arrive.
Can you repair all types of water heaters, or will I need a replacement?
We service and install tank, tankless, hybrid heat-pump, and high-efficiency gas water heaters. In many emergencies—such as failed heating elements, faulty thermostats, or leaky pressure valves—a repair is cost-effective. If the tank itself is corroded or the unit is 10–15 years old, replacement is usually recommended for safety and energy savings. We carry common repair parts on our trucks and stock popular replacement units locally so most jobs are completed the same day.
What are the typical costs for emergency water-heater service in Farragut?
An after-hours diagnostic fee ranges between $79 and $129, which is waived if you proceed with the repair. Simple fixes like replacing a thermostat or thermocouple run $150–$250. More involved repairs—such as gas valve replacement or anode rod extraction—average $300–$450. Full replacements, including labor, haul-away, and code upgrades, range from $1,200 for a standard 40-gallon electric tank to $3,000+ for a high-capacity tankless system. We provide upfront, written estimates before any work begins.
Will you handle the permits and code requirements for a water-heater replacement?
Yes. Knox County and the Town of Farragut require a mechanical permit for most water-heater replacements. Our licensed plumbers pull the permit, schedule the inspection, and ensure compliance with local codes—such as seismic strapping, proper venting, expansion tank installation, and dielectric connections. You receive documentation for your records and to maintain home-insurance coverage.
How can I prevent future water-heater emergencies?
• Flush the tank annually to remove sediment that overheats elements and weakens the tank. • Test the temperature & pressure relief valve twice a year. • Inspect for moisture, rust streaks, and burnt-smell wiring monthly. • Keep the thermostat at 120 °F to reduce scalding and prolong component life. • Install a leak-detection pad with automatic shut-off—our technicians can add this during a routine service. Following these steps can extend equipment life and minimize surprise breakdowns.