High-efficiency Unit
High-efficiency Unit | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | New Market
When the chill of a New Market morning meets lukewarm water, you know it’s time for an upgrade. HEP’s high-efficiency unit plumbing specialists pair local know-how with cutting-edge technology to deliver piping-hot comfort the second you turn the tap. Our certified technicians assess your home’s demand, install precision-engineered systems, and recycle heat that would otherwise be wasted—so you enjoy reliable performance while trimming energy bills.
Choose a tank water heater from HEP and turn utility costs into pocket change without sacrificing speed, capacity, or peace of mind. Every installation is backed by transparent pricing, same-day service options, and a warranty that keeps your family secure long after the first steamy shower. Call today and see why New Market homeowners say, “Call HEP!”
FAQs
What qualifies as a “high-efficiency” tank water heater?
A high-efficiency (HE) tank water heater is engineered to convert a larger percentage of its fuel—gas or electricity—into usable hot water. In practical terms, the unit will carry an Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) that is at least 0.64 for gas models and 0.93 or higher for electric models. These ratings mean less energy is wasted in standby losses and flue gases. Most HE units achieve this through better tank insulation, advanced heat-trap dip tubes, electronic ignition (instead of a standing pilot), and, in gas models, sealed-combustion or power-vent technology that recovers more heat from exhaust gases.
How much can I save on my utility bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency unit in New Market?
Savings vary by household size and local utility rates, but customers in New Market typically report 15-30% lower water-heating costs after switching to an HE tank model. For a family of four using a 50-gallon gas water heater, that can translate to $75–$150 per year. Electric HE models equipped with Heat Pump technology can save even more—up to $300 annually—because they move heat instead of generating it directly. Over the 10-12-year life span of the heater, total savings often exceed the incremental cost of the upgraded equipment.
Which is more efficient for my home—gas or electric high-efficiency models?
If your home already has natural gas service, a high-efficiency gas unit often offers the fastest payback because gas prices in the New Market area remain lower per Btu than electricity. High-efficiency gas models reach UEF ratings around 0.70-0.85. However, if you have high electric rates but access to utility rebates for heat-pump water heaters, an electric hybrid (heat-pump) tank can achieve UEF ratings of 3.0 or higher, making it the cheapest to operate in the long run. Our technicians can run a cost-analysis based on your home’s fuel prices, hot-water demand, and available incentives to recommend the best option.
Does installing a high-efficiency water heater require special plumbing or venting?
The water connections are the same ¾-inch hot and cold lines found on standard tanks, so no major plumbing modifications are needed. Gas HE models may require upgraded PVC or stainless-steel venting and an electrical outlet for an electronic ignition system and power vent. Electric heat-pump units need about 700–1,000 cubic feet of surrounding air space to operate efficiently and a condensate drain line, similar to an air conditioner. During our free in-home estimate, we confirm that your mechanical room meets clearances, venting paths, and electrical requirements before scheduling installation.
How long will installation take, and will I be without hot water?
A straightforward replacement of a standard tank with a high-efficiency model usually takes 3–4 hours. More complex jobs that involve new venting or electrical circuits can extend the visit to 5–6 hours. We coordinate installation so your old unit continues to deliver hot water until the final switchover, minimizing downtime to roughly 30–45 minutes. Before leaving, our licensed plumbers test the system, dispose of the old tank, and walk you through maintenance tips so you’re never left guessing.
Are there rebates or tax incentives for high-efficiency water heaters in New Market?
Yes. The Maryland Energy Administration and local utilities such as Potomac Edison frequently offer $150–$400 instant or mail-in rebates for ENERGY STAR® certified gas or electric heat-pump water heaters. In addition, the federal Inflation Reduction Act provides a 30% tax credit (up to $600 for gas or $2,000 for heat-pump water heaters) on the installed cost of qualifying models through 2032. We handle the paperwork, supply AHRI certificates, and help you claim all local, state, and federal incentives to maximize your savings.