Hot Water
Hot Water | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Ooltewah
When your morning shower turns cold halfway through or your family rushes to beat the clock on hot water, it’s time to call in the hometown pros at HEP. Our certified plumbers in Ooltewah specialize in fast, hassle-free repair, replacement, and installation of every make and model of tank water heater. We arrive with fully stocked trucks, transparent pricing, and a customer-first attitude that’s made HEP the trusted name in local plumbing since 2002.
Whether you want to extend the life of your existing unit or upgrade to a high-efficiency model, we’ll guide you through capacity calculations, safety code requirements, and energy-saving options—so you get reliable hot water and lower utility bills without the guesswork. From emergency service calls to routine maintenance, HEP handles all things hot water with the friendly, five-star service your neighbors in Ooltewah rave about.
FAQs
How long will a conventional tank water heater typically last in Ooltewah?
With proper installation and routine maintenance, most glass-lined gas or electric tank water heaters serve 8–12 years in Ooltewah. Our local water is moderately hard, so annual flushing and anode-rod inspections are especially important to reach the upper end of that life span. Neglecting service often shortens heater life to 6–7 years.
What size water heater tank should I choose for my household?
A rough rule of thumb is 10–15 gallons of capacity per person. In practice we recommend 40 gal for 1–2 residents, 50 gal for 3–4, and 66–80 gal for 5 or more. Homes with large soaking tubs, high-flow rain showers, or frequent laundry loads may need the next size up. During an in-home estimate we factor in fixture flow rates, simultaneous use patterns, and available electrical or gas service to confirm the right size.
Are high-efficiency or ENERGY STAR models available for tank units?
Yes. High-efficiency atmospheric and power-vent gas tanks now reach up to 0.72 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) and qualify for federal tax credits. Electric heat-pump hybrid tanks achieve 2.7–3.5 UEF—about three times more efficient than a standard electric element heater. Chattanooga-area EPB customers can pair hybrids with off-peak electric rates for even more savings. We’ll explain ROI, rebates, and whether your mechanical room has enough air volume for a hybrid unit.
How often should I flush or service my tank water heater?
We recommend a full drain-and-flush once a year to remove sediment that insulates the burner or elements and causes rumbling noises. At the same visit we test the temperature-pressure relief valve, inspect the anode rod, check gas pressures or element resistance, and verify that the expansion tank is properly pressurized. Regular service keeps energy use low and protects your manufacturer’s warranty.
What warning signs indicate my tank water heater needs repair or replacement?
Common red flags include 1) rusty or brown water, 2) rumbling or popping sounds, 3) water only lukewarm or recovery time getting longer, 4) moisture, corrosion, or pooling water around the base, and 5) pilot light that won’t stay lit or breaker that repeatedly trips. If the unit is more than 8 years old and shows two or more of these symptoms, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair.
Do you offer same-day emergency hot-water service in Ooltewah and nearby communities?
Yes. Our licensed technicians are on call 24/7 for Ooltewah, Collegedale, Apison, and East Brainerd. We stock common 40-, 50-, and 80-gallon gas and electric heaters on our trucks, along with valves, elements, thermostats, and expansion tanks. In most cases we can restore hot water the same day you call—often within a few hours.