- HEP Plumbing
- Emergency Service

Emergency Service
Emergency Service | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | New Tazewell
When your hot shower suddenly turns icy, you donât have time to hunt for a plumber who âmightâ be available. HEPâs 24/7 emergency team arrives fast in New Tazewell, fully stocked to diagnose, repair, or replace your tank water heater on the spot. From failed heating elements and leaking relief valves to mysterious rumbling noises, our licensed technicians know the tell-tale signs and the quickest fixes, restoring comfort and preventing costly water damage before it spreads.
Homeowners trust HEP because we combine small-town friendliness with big-time expertise. We quote up-front, stand behind every repair, and haul away the mess so youâre left with nothing but reliably hot water. Whether your system is gas or electric, decades old or brand-new, one call to HEP brings the peace of mind only true emergency service can provideâday or night, rain or shine.
FAQs
What situations with a tank water heater count as a plumbing emergency in New Tazewell?
Any sudden leak or rupture that releases water uncontrollably, a total loss of hot-water supply when it impacts hygiene or business operations, visible signs of overheating such as rumbling or boiling sounds, scorching odors, or tripped safety valves are all considered emergencies. Because a 40â50-gallon tank can empty in minutes and flood living spaces, calling for 24/7 emergency service prevents structural damage, mold growth, and high utility bills.
How quickly can your technicians reach my New Tazewell home or business after I place an emergency call?
We maintain on-call teams stationed within Claiborne County so we can arrive anywhere in the New Tazewell areaâcity limits or surrounding communitiesâwithin 60â90 minutes, even after hours, on weekends, or holidays. Our trucks are fully stocked with common replacement parts, shut-off valves, heating elements, thermostats, anode rods, and expansion tanks to eliminate multiple trips and restore service in one visit whenever possible.
What should I do while waiting for the plumber if my water heater is leaking?
1. Locate the cold-water shut-off valve above the heater and turn it clockwise to stop the water supply. 2. Turn the unitâs power offâflip the breaker for electric models or set the gas control knob to âOFFâ or âPILOTâ for gas models. 3. If safe, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the tankâs base and direct the hose to a floor drain or outside to relieve pressure. 4. Move valuables and electrical items away from standing water and place towels or a wet-vac to limit spread. 5. Do NOT open the temperature-pressure relief valve manually unless instructed, as it can discharge scalding water.
Do you repair all brands and fuel types of conventional tank water heaters?
Yes. Our certified technicians are trained to diagnose and repair gas, propane, and electric storage-tank heaters from Rheem, Bradford White, A.O. Smith, State, Whirlpool, GE, and other major and lesser-known brands. We carry OEM-quality parts and can replace failed heating elements, thermostats, dip tubes, burner assemblies, gas valves, flues, and anode rods. If the tank itself is corroded or the unit is over 10â12 years old, we can provide on-the-spot replacement options that meet new DOE efficiency standards.
How much does emergency tank water heater service usually cost?
Our transparent pricing model includes a flat emergency dispatch fee that covers travel and diagnosis, followed by upfront quotes for parts and labor before any work begins. Minor repairs such as element or thermostat replacement average $150â$300, while larger jobs like gas valve replacement or tank flush with sediment removal range from $250â$450. If the unit must be replaced, we credit the emergency fee toward a new installation. We accept major credit cards, offer short-term financing, and work with most homeowner insurance carriers when water damage claims apply.
What can I do to prevent future water-heater emergencies?
1. Schedule annual maintenance: We flush the tank, test safety valves, and inspect anode rods to combat sediment buildup and corrosion. 2. Install a leak-detection shut-off valve: These sensors automatically close the water supply when moisture is detected. 3. Set the thermostat to 120 °F: Temperatures above 140 °F accelerate wear, scald risk, and energy costs. 4. Replace anode rods every 3â5 years to extend tank life. 5. Insulate exposed pipes and the tank (if it lacks factory insulation) to reduce condensation and standby heat loss. 6. Keep a clear 2-foot radius around the heater for ventilation and easy access during emergencies.