Hot Water
Hot Water | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Jasper
There’s nothing quite as comforting as turning on the tap and feeling an instant rush of reliable, steamy water. At HEP, we specialize in making that comfort effortless with expert installation, repair, and maintenance for your tank water heater. Whether you’re outfitting a new home or nursing an older system back to peak performance, our certified plumbers bring decades of experience, transparent pricing, and a customer-first mindset to every visit—so you can enjoy hot showers and spotless dishes without a second thought.
From routine flushes that extend equipment life to swift, 24/7 emergency service when surprises strike, we handle the heavy lifting while you reap the savings on utility bills and future repairs. Discover why homeowners across East Tennessee trust HEP to keep their tank water heater running at its best—then give us a call and let the hot water flow.
FAQs
How does a traditional tank water heater work?
A tank water heater keeps 20–80 gallons of water in an insulated steel cylinder. Cold water enters near the bottom, where a gas burner or electric elements heat it to the thermostat setting (typically 120 °F). As hot water is drawn from the top for showers or appliances, cold water refills the tank and the heating cycle starts again. A relief valve protects the system from excess pressure, and an anode rod helps prevent corrosion inside the tank.
What size water heater tank do I need for my household in Jasper?
As a rule of thumb, a 30–40 gallon tank suits 1–2 people, 40–50 gallons covers 3–4 people, and 50–80 gallons works for larger families or homes with soaking tubs. You should also consider peak-hour demand (shower, dishwasher, and washing machine running together). Our plumbers can calculate your home’s First Hour Rating (FHR) to match the tank output with your busiest usage period and Jasper’s incoming water temperature, which is roughly 55–60 °F most of the year.
How long should a tank water heater last in Jasper’s climate?
With proper installation and yearly maintenance, a quality gas or electric tank water heater typically lasts 8–12 years. Jasper’s moderate winters are easier on tanks than northern climates, but our hard-water minerals can accelerate sediment buildup and anode-rod depletion. Flushing the tank and replacing the anode every 12–24 months can add several years to its life span.
What regular maintenance does my tank water heater need?
1) Drain and flush the tank once a year to remove sediment that insulates the burner and reduces efficiency. 2) Inspect and change the anode rod every 1–3 years. 3) Test the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve annually by lifting its lever. 4) Check the thermostat setting (120 °F is recommended for safety and energy savings). 5) For gas units, clean burner assemblies and verify proper venting. Our Jasper technicians offer an affordable maintenance package that handles all these tasks in about an hour.
What are the warning signs that my tank water heater needs repair or replacement?
• Rust-colored or metallic-tasting hot water • Popping or rumbling noises from the tank (sediment buildup) • Water that runs out quickly or never gets fully hot • Visible leaks around the base or pressure-relief valve • Pilot light that keeps going out (gas models) If your heater shows two or more of these symptoms and is over 8 years old, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair.
Are high-efficiency or rebate-eligible models available in Jasper?
Yes. ENERGY STAR-rated high-efficiency gas tanks (condensing or power-vent) and electric heat-pump water heaters can cut energy use 20–60 percent. Many qualify for federal tax credits up to $600 and utility rebates through the TVA EnergyRight® program, which serves most of Jasper. Our team can provide paperwork, confirm eligibility, and install models with UEF ratings as high as 4.0 for heat-pump units or 0.90 for condensing gas units.