- HEP Plumbing
- Water-heater Repair

Water-heater Repair
Water-heater Repair | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Fountain City
When the morning chill of Fountain City meets an unexpected cold shower, you’ll be glad HEP is only a call away. Our licensed plumbers know every make and model of tank water heater, so they can quickly diagnose leaks, sediment buildup, faulty thermostats, or burnt-out elements. We arrive with fully stocked trucks, transparent pricing, and a commitment to repair most issues on the very first visit—restoring reliable hot water before you miss a beat in your day.
Beyond fast fixes, we focus on long-term peace of mind. From flushing and anode-rod replacement to safety-valve testing and efficiency upgrades, our team helps your system run better for years, trimming energy costs and preventing surprise breakdowns. If your aging unit is beyond repair, we’ll guide you through replacement options sized perfectly for your household. Trust HEP’s hometown experts to protect your comfort, your budget, and every precious drop of hot water in Fountain City.
FAQs
What are the most common signs my tank water heater needs repair in Fountain City?
Be on the lookout for water that takes longer than usual to heat, inconsistent water temperatures, popping or rumbling sounds coming from the tank, rusty-colored or foul-smelling hot water, visible leaks around the base of the unit, and a sudden increase in energy bills. Any of these symptoms can point to sediment buildup, a failing heating element, or a corroded tank that should be inspected by a licensed Fountain City plumber.
How fast can you restore hot water once I call for service?
For customers in Fountain City and the surrounding Knoxville area, we offer same-day service for most emergency water-heater repairs. Our trucks are stocked with the most common replacement parts—thermostats, heating elements, drain valves, anode rods, and pressure-relief valves—so in many cases we can diagnose the problem and complete the repair in a single visit, typically within two to four hours of arrival.
Do you service both gas and electric tank water heaters?
Yes. Our technicians are certified to work on standard atmospheric gas heaters, high-efficiency power-vent models, and all major brands of electric storage tanks. Whether your unit needs a burner assembly cleaned, a thermocouple replaced, or electric elements and thermostats swapped out, we have the tools and training required to get your specific fuel type running safely and efficiently.
Should I repair or replace an older water heater?
The average storage-tank water heater lasts 8–12 years. If your unit is under eight years old and the tank itself isn’t leaking, repairs are often the most cost-effective solution. However, if the heater is approaching the end of its life, has corrosion around the base, or needs multiple expensive components replaced, investing in a new high-efficiency model usually makes more financial sense. During our inspection we’ll provide an honest assessment of repair costs versus replacement value so you can make an informed decision.
How much does tank water-heater repair typically cost in Fountain City?
Minor repairs such as replacing a thermostat, temperature-pressure relief valve, or heating element generally range from $150 to $300, parts and labor included. More involved work—like flushing severe sediment buildup or repairing gas-control valves—can run $300 to $500. We always provide a written, flat-rate quote after diagnosing the issue so you know the exact cost before any work begins.
What maintenance can I perform to prevent future problems after the repair?
Flush a few gallons from the tank every six months to remove sediment, test the temperature-pressure relief valve yearly, set the thermostat to 120 °F to reduce stress on components, and schedule a professional inspection once a year. Installing a whole-house water softener or at least an anode rod suited to Fountain City’s water chemistry can also slow internal corrosion and extend the heater’s lifespan.