Energy-saving Upgrades
Energy-saving Upgrades | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Greenback
Looking to cut utility costs without sacrificing comfort? HEP’s plumbing pros in Greenback specialize in energy-saving upgrades that transform the way your home uses hot water. By replacing outdated equipment with a high-efficiency tank water heater, we help you enjoy faster recovery times, steadier temperatures, and annual savings that truly add up. Our licensed technicians handle everything—from right-sizing the unit to secure installation and haul-away of your old tank—so you can start saving from day one.
Beyond installation, HEP offers routine maintenance plans and smart add-ons like insulation jackets, mixing valves, and leak-detection sensors to keep your new system running at peak performance for years. Experience dependable hot water, lower energy bills, and the peace of mind that comes from partnering with Greenback’s most trusted home-service team.
FAQs
How can upgrading my conventional tank water heater save energy and money?
Modern ENERGY STAR®–rated tank water heaters are insulated up to R-25, use high-efficiency burners or heating elements, and incorporate smart controls that reduce standby heat loss. Compared with a 10- to 15-year-old unit, a new high-efficiency model can cut water-heating energy use by 10–20 %, translating into $60–$120 in annual utility savings for an average Greenback household. Over the 12-year expected life of the appliance, that can mean more than $1,000 back in your pocket.
What high-efficiency options are available for tank-style water heaters in Greenback?
You can choose from several energy-saving technologies: • High-efficiency gas storage water heaters (0.64–0.70 UEF) with electronic ignition and improved heat exchangers. • Electric heat-pump (hybrid) water heaters that pull ambient heat from the air and can reach 3.5 UEF—about three times more efficient than a standard electric unit. • Condensing gas water heaters that capture additional heat from exhaust gases, achieving UEFs up to 0.90. Our technicians will assess fuel availability, household hot-water demand, and space constraints to recommend the most cost-effective model for your situation.
Will a new energy-saving tank water heater fit in the same space as my old unit?
In most cases, yes. High-efficiency gas and standard electric replacements have nearly identical footprints to older models. Heat-pump water heaters are slightly taller to accommodate the heat-pump assembly and require about 700 ft³ of ambient air for proper operation; however, we can often meet this requirement by installing louvered doors or ducting if your utility closet is tight. During a free on-site estimate we measure clearances, venting paths, and drain locations to guarantee a seamless swap.
Are there rebates or tax credits available in Greenback or Tennessee for installing an efficient tank water heater?
Yes. The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) currently offers up to 30 % of the equipment and installation cost—capped at $600 for gas storage and $2,000 for heat-pump water heaters—when the unit meets required UEF levels. Several local utilities, including the Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight® program, provide additional incentives ranging from $150–$500. We prepare all rebate paperwork and supply the AHRI certificate so you can claim every dollar you’re entitled to.
How long does the installation of an energy-efficient tank water heater take and will my water service be interrupted?
A straightforward replacement generally takes 2–4 hours, including draining the old tank, making gas or electrical connections, setting up the new venting, and filling and testing the system. You will be without hot water during that window, but cold-water service remains available. If upgrades to venting, condensate drain lines, or an expansion tank are required, the job may extend to the same business day. We schedule installations at your convenience and always haul away and recycle the old unit.
What maintenance is required to keep an energy-saving tank water heater operating at peak efficiency?
• Flush the tank annually (every 6 months in hard-water areas) to remove sediment that insulates the burner and lowers efficiency. • Test the temperature-pressure relief valve each year. • Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years to prevent corrosion and extend tank life. • Clean the air filter on a heat-pump water heater every 3 months. • Verify that intake/exhaust vents remain clear of debris. We offer affordable maintenance plans that include these tasks, maximizing efficiency, prolonging warranty coverage, and helping you avoid surprise breakdowns.