Licensed Technicians
Licensed Technicians | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Mountain City
When your shower turns cold or your utility bill creeps up, HEP’s licensed technicians are ready to swoop in with fast, friendly expertise. From flushing sediment to replacing thermostats, we know every bolt and burner inside your tank water heater, and we back our work with honest pricing and a satisfaction guarantee that keeps Mountain City neighbors coming back.
Because we live and work here too, you can expect same-day appointments, 24/7 emergency response, and courteous pros who leave your space cleaner than they found it. Whether your tank water heater is leaking, under-performing, or simply outdated, we’ll guide you through repair versus replacement, explain energy-saving options, and handle all permitting so you can get back to hot water—and peace of mind—without the hassle.
FAQs
What size tank water heater is best for homes in Mountain City?
Sizing depends on your household’s peak hot-water demand. A typical 2–3 person home usually needs a 40-gallon tank, while families of 4–5 often choose 50–60 gallons. Because Mountain City’s colder winter groundwater can lower incoming water temperature, we sometimes recommend moving up one tank size or choosing a higher recovery-rate model to maintain comfortable shower lengths. Our licensed technicians can calculate your peak-hour demand on site and suggest the right capacity and fuel type (gas or electric).
How long does a standard replacement or new installation take?
Most straight replacements—removing the old tank and installing a new, same-size unit in the same location—take about 2–3 hours. If code upgrades, venting changes, or relocation is required, the job can extend to 4–6 hours. Our Mountain City crews arrive with all common fittings on the truck, minimizing delays even in remote mountain neighborhoods.
Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Mountain City or Johnson County?
Yes. The State of Tennessee plumbing code and Johnson County building department require a permit and final inspection for any water heater replacement. As licensed plumbers, we pull the permit, schedule the inspection, and ensure the new installation meets current code (seismic strapping, expansion tank, T&P discharge line, combustion-air clearance, etc.). This protects your warranty and homeowners insurance coverage.
What maintenance should I schedule to extend the life of my tank water heater?
Annual maintenance is recommended, especially in Mountain City where mineral content is moderate and winter operation is demanding. Service includes draining several gallons to flush sediment, checking the anode rod, testing the T&P relief valve, inspecting the burner or heating elements, adjusting thermostat settings, and verifying venting or electrical connections. Routine maintenance can add 3–5 years to the heater’s life and keep energy bills lower.
How can I improve the energy efficiency of my existing tank unit?
1) Lower the thermostat to 120 °F unless medical or dishwasher requirements dictate hotter water. 2) Insulate the first 3–6 feet of hot-water pipes and add an insulating blanket if the tank’s R-value is below 16. 3) Install a timer or smart controller on electric models to avoid heating during long absences. 4) Fix dripping faucets quickly—every drip forces the heater to re-heat water. 5) Schedule annual flushing to remove insulating sediment buildup. Our technicians can perform these upgrades during a routine service call.
What warning signs indicate it’s time to replace rather than repair my tank water heater?
• Age over 10–12 years (manufacture date is on the rating plate) • Rust-colored water or noticeable metallic taste • Moisture or pooling around the tank base, indicating a failing inner liner • Rumbling or popping sounds after flushing, a sign of severe sediment buildup • Rising energy bills despite normal usage • Repeated pilot or element failures. If two or more of these symptoms appear, replacement is normally more economical and safer than continued repairs.