Licensed Local Pros
Licensed Local Pros | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Kelso
When a chilly Kelso evening turns your shower into an ice plunge, HEP’s licensed local pros are already on the way. Our team lives and works right here in Cowlitz County, so we know the quirks of Kelso’s water supply and the building codes that keep your home safe. From first inspection to flawless installation, we make sure your tank water heater delivers reliable, energy-efficient comfort—and we back every job with transparent pricing and an iron-clad satisfaction guarantee.
Whether you need a quick flush, a thermostat tune-up, or a full replacement, we handle every detail so you can get back to warm baths and clean dishes without a hitch. Call today and discover why homeowners across Kelso trust HEP for responsive service, honest advice, and workmanship that keeps your tank water heater running strong season after season.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my Kelso home?
Sizing depends on how many people live in your household and your peak-hour hot-water demand. A family of 2–3 usually needs a 40-gallon unit, while 4–5 people typically require 50–60 gallons. Larger families or homes with high-flow fixtures may need 75 gallons or more. Our licensed Kelso plumbers perform a quick usage audit—counting showers, tubs, appliances, and simultaneous uses—to recommend the right capacity so you never run out of hot water but don’t pay for unnecessary volume.
How long does a typical tank water heater installation take?
For a straightforward replacement in Kelso, most residential jobs are completed in 2–4 hours. This includes draining and removing the old unit, bringing the new tank into position, making gas or electric connections, updating venting or expansion tanks if required, and testing for leaks. If we must relocate the heater, upgrade the gas line, or bring venting up to current code, the work can stretch to a full day. We provide a time estimate before starting so you can plan accordingly.
Are permits required in Kelso for replacing a tank water heater?
Yes. Cowlitz County and the City of Kelso both require a mechanical (and sometimes plumbing or electrical) permit for water heater replacement. The permit ensures the unit meets current safety and energy codes, including seismic strapping, T&P relief valve piping, and proper venting. As licensed local pros, we pull the permit on your behalf, coordinate the inspection, and include the permit fee in our written estimate—saving you the paperwork and ensuring compliance.
What maintenance should I perform to extend the life of my tank water heater?
Annual maintenance can add years to your heater’s lifespan and keep energy costs down: • Drain or flush 2–3 gallons every six months to reduce sediment buildup (full flush yearly if you have hard water in Kelso). • Inspect and replace the anode rod every 3–5 years; a worn rod accelerates tank corrosion. • Test the temperature-and-pressure (T&P) relief valve yearly to ensure it opens freely. • Check for leaks at fittings and around the base. • Keep the thermostat at 120 °F to minimize scald risk and reduce energy use. We offer an affordable maintenance plan that covers these tasks and records each service for warranty purposes.
How energy-efficient are modern tank water heaters compared to older models?
New units manufactured after 2015 must meet higher federal efficiency standards. Gas models now achieve Energy Factors (EF) of 0.60–0.70, while high-efficiency condensing tanks reach 0.80+. Electric units often include heat-trap fittings and better insulation, pushing EF to 0.95. In practical terms, a 10- to 12-year-old heater may be costing you 15–25 % more in energy than a new one of the same size. We can calculate the payback period for upgrading based on Kelso’s natural gas and electricity rates so you know precisely how much you’ll save.
What signs indicate that my current tank water heater needs to be replaced?
Replace your heater if you notice: • Age—units older than 10–12 years are at higher risk of leaks. • Rust-colored hot water or metallic taste—internal corrosion. • Rumbling or popping noises—sediment has hardened on the tank bottom, reducing efficiency. • Water pooling at the base—tank or fitting leaks. • Insufficient hot water or fluctuating temperatures—failing heating elements or burners. • Higher utility bills with no change in usage—loss of efficiency. If any of these appear, call us for an inspection; we’ll advise whether repair or replacement is the safest and most cost-effective option.