Licensed Plumbers
Licensed Plumbers | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Philadelphia
When Philly mornings turn brisk, you need hot water you can count on. HEP’s licensed plumbers bring decades of expertise to every tank water heater repair, replacement, and maintenance call, restoring comfort to your home with courteous same-day service. We work with trusted brands, pull the proper city permits, and leave every workspace cleaner than we found it—so you can get back to life without the worry of surprise leaks or icy showers.
From troubleshooting a faulty thermostat to installing high-efficiency models that trim utility bills, our team delivers honest recommendations and upfront pricing. With 24/7 emergency service across Philadelphia, we’re always just a phone call away, ready to keep your water piping hot and your peace of mind intact.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my Philadelphia home?
A good rule of thumb is 30–40 gallons for 1–2 occupants, 40–50 gallons for 2–3 occupants, 50–60 gallons for 3–4 occupants, and 75 gallons or more for larger households or homes with high-demand fixtures like soaking tubs. We also consider the appliance’s First Hour Rating (FHR), which should meet or exceed your home’s peak hourly hot-water usage. During our on-site estimate, a licensed plumber will review your family’s habits, fuel type (gas or electric), available space, and local code clearances to recommend an appropriately sized unit.
How long can I expect a tank water heater to last in Philadelphia’s climate?
Most standard glass-lined tank heaters last 8–12 years, while high-quality stainless-steel or power-vented models can reach 15 years with proper maintenance. Philadelphia’s hard water and winter freeze-thaw cycles can shorten lifespan if the anode rod isn’t replaced regularly or the unit isn’t flushed annually. Scheduling yearly maintenance with our licensed plumbers helps control mineral buildup, protects the tank from corrosion, and extends service life.
Do I need a permit or inspection to replace a water heater in Philadelphia?
Yes. The City of Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) requires a plumbing permit for any water-heater replacement that involves gas, venting, or supply modifications. Only a licensed, insured plumber can pull this permit. After installation, an L&I inspector may perform a visual check to ensure the heater is properly vented, bonded, strapped for seismic safety, and equipped with an approved temperature-and-pressure (T&P) relief valve and expansion tank. Hiring us ensures your project is fully code-compliant and passes inspection the first time.
What are the most common signs my tank water heater needs repair or replacement?
• Rust-colored or metallic-tasting hot water (indicates internal corrosion) • Rumbling, popping, or banging noises (sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank) • Water pooling around the base or a leaking T&P valve • Inconsistent water temperature or rapidly running out of hot water • Visible rust on the jacket, flue, or fittings • Heater is 10+ years old and out of warranty If you notice any of these issues, shut off power/fuel to the unit and call us. We’ll diagnose whether a repair—such as anode-rod replacement, thermostat adjustment, or drain-and-flush—is economical, or if a full replacement is the safer option.
How much does professional tank water heater installation cost in Philadelphia?
For a standard 40–50 gallon gas or electric tank, expect $1,200–$1,900 installed. High-efficiency, power-vented, or indirect models typically run $2,000–$2,800. The price includes the heater, expansion tank, permit fees, disposal of the old unit, new shut-off valves, water-flex connectors, and labor by a licensed plumber. Additional costs can arise if we must upgrade venting, add a dedicated electrical circuit, bring gas piping up to code, or correct flue-pipe slope. We provide a firm, written quote after inspecting the site so there are no surprises.
Why should I hire a licensed plumber instead of installing a water heater myself?
Water heater replacement involves natural-gas and carbon-monoxide safety, 120/240-volt wiring, high-pressure water lines, soldering, and strict city codes. A licensed plumber: • Pulls the mandatory Philadelphia plumbing permit and arranges inspection • Sizes and installs the correct venting system to prevent CO back-drafting • Provides manufacturer-approved, code-compliant workmanship that keeps your warranty valid • Carries liability insurance to protect your home in the unlikely event of a mishap • Installs seismic strapping, expansion tanks, dielectric unions, and drip legs as required by local ordinance Attempting a DIY install can void the warranty, fail inspection, or create serious safety hazards. Our fully licensed, bonded, and insured team handles the project from start to finish so you can enjoy reliable hot water with peace of mind.