Hot Water
Hot Water | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Guild
Nothing ruins a Guild morning faster than a lukewarm shower. That’s why families and businesses turn to HEP for fast, fuss-free solutions that keep water hot and life moving. Whether you’re dealing with a sputtering tank water heater, a pilot light that just won’t stay lit, or rust-tinged water that signals trouble inside the tank, our licensed plumbers diagnose the issue on the spot and arrive with the parts to fix it right away.
From preventive flushes that extend equipment life to full-scale replacements that boost efficiency, we tailor every service to your budget and usage demands. Expect honest, upfront pricing, industry-leading warranties, and the friendly local pros who treat your home as carefully as their own—so you can step back into a steaming shower and get on with your day.
FAQs
How do I know what size tank water heater my home in Guild needs?
The right size depends on the number of occupants, simultaneous hot-water activities, and your peak-hour demand. A typical rule of thumb is 10–15 gallons per person, so a family of four often needs a 40–50 gallon unit. However, if you run multiple appliances at once (e.g., shower, dishwasher, and washing machine), you may need a larger tank or a high-recovery model. Our plumbers can calculate your exact First-Hour Rating (FHR) to recommend the ideal size, preventing both shortages and unnecessary energy costs.
What is the average lifespan of a conventional tank water heater?
With proper installation and routine maintenance, a gas or electric storage-tank water heater typically lasts 8–12 years. Factors that influence longevity include water quality (hard water shortens life), frequency of maintenance (flushing sediment annually helps), operating temperature (120 °F is ideal), and whether the anode rod is replaced every 3–5 years. If your heater in Guild is over 10 years old and showing signs of rust, leaks, or inconsistent temperatures, it may be more cost-effective to replace than repair.
How often should I flush my tank, and can I do it myself?
We recommend a full drain-and-flush at least once a year to remove mineral buildup that insulates the burner or heating elements and reduces efficiency. Guild’s water has moderate hardness, so an annual flush is usually sufficient. DIY-ers can follow the manufacturer’s steps—shutting off power or gas, attaching a garden hose to the drain valve, and letting the tank empty completely. If you’re uncomfortable handling hot water or reopening the gas line, schedule a professional service; it’s quick, affordable, and keeps your warranty valid.
Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?
The odor is typically hydrogen sulfide gas created when naturally occurring sulfate-reducing bacteria react with the tank’s sacrificial anode rod. Flushing the tank and shock-chlorinating can help, but in persistent cases we replace the magnesium anode rod with an aluminum-zinc alloy or install a powered anode. Both solutions eliminate the chemical reaction without compromising corrosion protection. Our Guild plumbing team can diagnose the exact cause and implement the right fix during a single service visit.
How energy-efficient are modern tank water heaters compared with older models?
New units manufactured after the latest DOE standards feature increased insulation, high-efficiency burners or elements, and improved dip-tube designs that reduce standby heat loss. Many exceed 0.60 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) for gas and 0.92 for electric, translating to 10–20 % lower operating costs versus models installed more than a decade ago. Upgrading can save a typical Guild household $75–$150 annually on utilities, and local rebates may offset part of the purchase price.
What should I do if my tank starts leaking?
First, shut off the cold-water supply valve at the top of the heater, then turn off power at the breaker (electric) or set the gas control to “Pilot” (gas). A small drip from the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve may signal excess pressure, but water pooling from the base indicates internal tank failure. Because the steel tank is sealed, leaks cannot be repaired safely; replacement is the only permanent solution. Call our 24/7 emergency line, and we’ll dispatch a certified Guild plumber to drain, remove, and replace the unit, often the same day, to minimize water damage and restore hot water.