- HEP Plumbing
- Water Heater

Water Heater
Water Heater | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Oak Ridge
Your water heater rarely chooses a convenient time to fail, but HEP’s licensed Oak Ridge technicians are always ready. From sudden loss of hot water during a midnight shower to that alarming rumble coming from the tank, we arrive fast with fully stocked vans, advanced diagnostic tools, and a polite, tidy approach that puts your comfort first. Our neighbors trust us because we repair, replace, and maintain every make and model—often on the very first visit—so you can get back to warm baths and clean dishes without skipping a beat.
When minutes matter, reach for the local team that’s on call 24/7 for emergency plumbing. We’ll isolate leaks, flush sediment, swap out failed elements, or install a high-efficiency upgrade, all while offering transparent pricing and rock-solid warranties. Whether you live near historic Jackson Square or off the Clinch River, HEP makes water heater headaches disappear with the friendly, dependable service Oak Ridge homeowners deserve.
FAQs
What qualifies as a water-heater plumbing emergency?
Any situation that poses an immediate threat to your home, safety, or comfort is considered an emergency. Common examples include a ruptured tank that is actively leaking, no hot water in winter weather, water spraying from supply lines, gas leaks on a gas water heater, or scalding temperatures caused by a failed thermostat or pressure-relief valve. If shutting off the water or power does not stop the problem, call our Oak Ridge emergency line right away.
How fast can you arrive at my Oak Ridge home for an emergency call?
Our on-call technicians are stationed throughout Anderson and Roane counties. In most cases we can be at any Oak Ridge address within 60 minutes of your call—often sooner. We dispatch crews 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and you will receive a real-time ETA by text or phone once the technician is en route.
What should I do while waiting for the plumber to arrive?
If it is safe to do so, turn off the cold-water supply valve located on top of the water heater and shut off the unit’s power: flip the breaker for an electric heater or turn the gas control knob to the OFF position for a gas model. Open a nearby hot-water faucet to relieve pressure, and place towels or a bucket under any leaks. Never attempt major repairs yourself, especially on gas lines or electrical wiring.
Can you repair all types and brands of water heaters?
Yes. Our licensed plumbers are trained to diagnose and repair traditional tank, tankless, hybrid heat-pump, and commercial units from all major manufacturers, including Rheem, Bradford White, AO Smith, Rinnai, Navien, and more. We carry a broad inventory of OEM parts on our service vehicles so most emergencies are resolved in a single visit.
How much does an emergency water-heater service typically cost?
Pricing depends on the time of day, the complexity of the repair, and whether parts such as heating elements, thermostats, gas valves, or pressure-relief valves are required. You will receive a written, upfront estimate before any work begins. Diagnostic fees start at $79 during regular hours and $129 after hours. We also offer flat-rate pricing for common repairs and flexible financing for larger replacements.
What preventive steps can I take to avoid future emergencies?
Schedule an annual inspection and flush to remove sediment that can cause overheating and tank corrosion. Test the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve every six months, maintain the thermostat at 120°F, and install a leak-detection shut-off valve for added protection. Replacing an aging unit (10–12 years old for conventional tanks) before it fails is the most reliable way to prevent a surprise flood or loss of hot water.