Water-heater Upgrades
Water-heater Upgrades | Plumbing | Hillsboro
From faster hot-water delivery to noticeably lower energy bills, HEP’s water-heater upgrades bring a welcome surge of comfort and efficiency to Hillsboro homes. Our certified technicians handle every detail—from safely removing outdated tanks to installing high-performance, eco-friendly models—so you can enjoy longer showers and peace of mind without lifting a finger.
We pair our cutting-edge solutions with old-fashioned customer care, arriving on time, respecting your space, and tidying up before we leave. Whether you’re switching to a tankless system or simply need a smarter thermostat, we’ll integrate your new equipment seamlessly into your existing plumbing and back it with clear, upfront pricing. Ready to heat water the modern way? Give HEP a call and feel the upgrade from the very first tap.
FAQs
How do I know it’s time to upgrade my current water heater?
Common signs include water that never gets fully hot, rumbling or popping noises from sediment build-up, rusty or discolored water, visible leaks around the tank, and utility bills that are higher than normal. If your storage-tank model is 8–12 years old—or a tankless unit is over 15 years old—replacement is usually more cost-effective than major repairs.
What types of replacement water heaters are best suited for Hillsboro homes?
Homeowners typically choose from high-efficiency gas or electric storage tanks, ENERGY STAR® heat-pump (hybrid) electric units, and on-demand (tankless) gas or electric models. Tankless systems free up floor space and provide endless hot water, while heat-pump units can cut electric use by up to 60%. Our technicians evaluate your household’s hot-water demand, available fuel sources, and space constraints to recommend the most economical option.
How much can I save on energy costs by upgrading?
Savings vary by unit type and fuel rate, but Hillsboro customers who switch from a standard electric tank (0.62 EF) to a heat-pump model (3.2 UEF) often see $250–$400 per year in electricity savings. Replacing an aging gas tank with a condensing tankless unit can reduce natural-gas consumption 20–35%. Local incentives from Energy Trust of Oregon and manufacturer rebates can shorten payback periods to three–five years.
Do I need a permit for a water-heater replacement in Hillsboro?
Yes. The City of Hillsboro Building Department requires a mechanical permit for any water-heater installation that involves new venting, gas piping, or electrical changes. As licensed plumbers, we pull the permit on your behalf, schedule the inspection, and ensure the installation meets Oregon Residential Specialty Code, seismic-strap, and back-drafting requirements.
How long will the installation take and will I be without hot water during the process?
Standard tank swaps generally take 2–3 hours, while tankless or heat-pump conversions can take 4–8 hours due to venting, condensate, or electrical upgrades. Your hot water is offline only after we shut off the old unit—usually less than half the total project time. We coordinate scheduling to minimize disruption and can provide temporary bypass options for larger households if needed.
What happens to my old water heater and what kind of warranty do you provide?
We remove the old tank at no additional charge and recycle the steel, copper, and brass in accordance with Washington County environmental guidelines. New tanks come with 6–12-year manufacturer warranties; tankless heat exchangers carry up to 15-year coverage. Our labor is backed by a 1-year workmanship guarantee, and we offer affordable maintenance plans to keep your new system running efficiently.