Water Heater
Water Heater | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Farragut
When mornings in Farragut start crisp, stepping into a warm shower isn’t a luxury—it’s a must. HEP’s licensed plumbers make sure that comfort never skips a beat by caring for every aspect of your home’s tank water heater, from swift replacements to precision repairs. We combine decades of local know-how with honest, up-front pricing, so you’ll understand every step before the first wrench turns.
Schedule a visit and our friendly crew will arrive on time, inspect your system, and lay out efficiency-boosting options that suit your budget. Whether your current unit is rumbling, leaking, or simply overdue for routine service, we’ll restore hot water fast and back every job with a rock-solid satisfaction guarantee. Discover why Farragut families trust HEP to keep the heat on—24/7, 365.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my Farragut home?
The correct size depends on the number of people in your household and your peak-hour demand. A typical rule of thumb is 40–50 gallons for 1–4 people, 50–65 gallons for 4–6 people, and 75 gallons or more for larger families. Because Farragut’s water is moderately hard, you may want to factor in slightly higher demand to offset mineral buildup that can reduce usable capacity over time. Our plumbers can perform a quick usage audit and recommend a properly sized, energy-efficient model so you never run out of hot water.
How long does a traditional tank water heater last and when should I replace it?
With regular maintenance, most glass-lined steel tank units last 8–12 years. In Farragut’s climate, temperature swings and mineral content can shorten that span if the unit is not flushed annually. You should consider replacement if your heater is over 10 years old, shows signs of rust around the base, produces rusty or sandy water, or no longer meets your household’s hot-water needs. Upgrading proactively can prevent sudden leaks and lower energy costs by as much as 20–30% with today’s higher-efficiency models.
Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Farragut?
Yes. The Town of Farragut follows Knox County building codes, which require a mechanical/plumbing permit for water heater replacements—gas or electric. Permits help ensure the installation meets safety codes for pressure relief, venting, gas line sizing, and seismic strapping. Our licensed technicians pull the permit, schedule the required inspection, and include the cost in your upfront estimate so you stay fully compliant without any paperwork hassle.
What maintenance can extend the life of my tank water heater?
1) Flush the tank at least once a year (twice if you have hard water) to remove sediment that insulates the burner and accelerates corrosion. 2) Test the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve yearly to ensure it opens freely. 3) Inspect and replace the sacrificial anode rod every 3–5 years; doing so can double the tank’s lifespan. 4) Check for signs of moisture around fittings, and tighten or replace as needed. 5) Keep the thermostat set to 120 °F—hot enough to prevent bacteria but cool enough to reduce scald risk and energy use.
Are modern tank water heaters more energy-efficient than older units?
Absolutely. New federal efficiency standards (NER 0.64 or higher for gas, UEF 0.93 or higher for electric models) mean today’s heaters use up to 30% less energy than units produced a decade ago. High-efficiency gas models feature better insulation, low-NOx burners, and electric ignition rather than a standing pilot, while electric versions use thicker foam insulation and heat-trap fittings. Over a unit’s lifetime, Farragut homeowners can save hundreds of dollars on utility bills and may qualify for TVA or federal tax rebates when upgrading.
What signs tell me my tank water heater needs professional repair?
Call a licensed plumber if you notice: • popping or rumbling noises (indicating excessive sediment) • water pooling around the base or rust streaks down the tank • inconsistent water temperature or sudden loss of hot water • discolored or metallic-tasting hot water • a burning smell or soot around a gas unit’s vent hood • frequent tripping of the heater’s breaker (for electric models). Addressing these issues early can often prevent a full replacement and keep your family safe.