- HEP Plumbing
- High-efficiency Tank

High-efficiency Tank
High-efficiency Tank | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Louisville
Save energy, slash utility bills, and enjoy consistent hot water with HEP’s high-efficiency solutions in Louisville. Our licensed plumbers pair top-tier equipment with precision installation to keep your home comfortable year-round. Whether you’re upgrading an aging unit or building from scratch, we evaluate your household’s demand and recommend the perfect tank water heater that balances performance and affordability.
From rapid response scheduling to meticulous clean-up, every step of the process is handled with the courtesy and craftsmanship HEP is known for. We secure rebates, haul away your old tank, and back the new system with industry-leading warranties—so you can relax and feel the difference every time you turn on the tap. Discover why Louisville homeowners trust HEP for reliable, high-efficiency hot water that just won’t quit.
FAQs
What makes a tank water heater “high-efficiency,” and how does that help Louisville homeowners?
A high-efficiency tank water heater has an EF (Energy Factor) or UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) rating significantly higher than standard models—typically 0.64 UEF or above for gas and 0.90 UEF or above for electric. These units use better insulation, heat traps, high-output burners or electronic elements, and sometimes powered venting to reduce heat loss. For Louisville residents, this means lower monthly utility bills, faster hot-water recovery during our cold winters, and reduced greenhouse-gas emissions in line with Louisville Metro’s sustainability goals.
Are there any rebates or tax incentives for installing a high-efficiency tank water heater in Louisville?
Yes. Through 2024, most ENERGY STAR® high-efficiency gas or electric tank water heaters qualify for a 30 % Federal tax credit up to $600. Louisville Gas & Electric (LG&E) also periodically offers bill credits ($75–$150) for ENERGY STAR® replacements, and the Kentucky ENERGY rebate program has issued incentives in past years. We handle all paperwork and will inform you of the exact rebates available at the time of installation.
How long does a high-efficiency tank water heater installation take?
Most residential replacements in Louisville can be completed in 3–5 hours. That time includes draining your old heater, hauling it away, updating gas or electrical connections to current code, installing the new high-efficiency unit, and testing for leaks and proper venting. If your plumbing or venting needs major modifications, we’ll let you know up-front and the job may extend to a full day.
Is Louisville’s hard water an issue for high-efficiency tank heaters?
Louisville water averages 7–8 grains of hardness. While that isn’t extreme, mineral buildup can still reduce efficiency over time, especially on high-output burners or heating elements. We recommend an annual flush and, for homes above 10 grains, a whole-house water softener or a scale-inhibitor filter. These measures protect the heat exchanger, maintain peak efficiency, and preserve your warranty.
What maintenance does a high-efficiency tank water heater require?
Beyond standard flushing to remove sediment, high-efficiency units often have powered anodes, electronic controls, and condensate drains (for condensing gas models). Annual maintenance should include: (1) flushing or descaling, (2) testing the anode rod, (3) cleaning the intake screen and condensate trap, (4) verifying gas pressure or element resistance, and (5) updating firmware if the unit is Wi-Fi–enabled. We offer an affordable maintenance plan that covers all of these items and keeps your factory warranty valid.
How much can I expect to save on my utility bills by switching to a high-efficiency tank water heater?
Savings vary by household size and fuel type, but Louisville homeowners typically report 10 %–20 % lower natural-gas or electric water-heating costs. For a family of four using a 50-gallon gas heater, that’s roughly $40–$70 per year. When combined with available rebates, most homeowners see a full return on the price difference between a standard and high-efficiency tank within 3–5 years.