High-efficiency Rheem
High-efficiency Rheem | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Sewanee
Feel the difference a high-efficiency Rheem tank water heater makes when the mountain air in Sewanee turns brisk. HEP’s certified plumbers install units engineered for rapid recovery, superior insulation, and smart controls that trim energy bills while delivering a steady cascade of hot water. From dorm cottages on Tennessee Avenue to historic stone homes near the Domain, we size every system precisely, haul away the old tank, and leave your utility room spotless.
With locally based service trucks fully stocked in Franklin County, HEP keeps your new tank water heater running at peak performance through annual flushes, anode-rod checks, and 24/7 emergency support. Enjoy longer showers, lower costs, and the peace of mind that comes from a Rheem warranty backed by Sewanee’s most trusted plumbing team—just a quick call or click away.
FAQs
What qualifies a Rheem tank water heater as “high-efficiency,” and how does that benefit me?
Rheem high-efficiency (HE) tank models use advanced foam insulation, ultra-low-NOx burners, and high-recovery heat exchangers to convert more of every fuel dollar into hot water. Typical Energy Factors (EF) range from 0.67–0.72 for gas and up to 0.94 for electric hybrid units—well above standard models. For a Sewanee homeowner this can translate into 20-40 % lower water-heating costs, quieter operation, and reduced greenhouse-gas emissions.
Can a high-efficiency Rheem heater really lower my utility bills in Sewanee’s climate?
Yes. Even though Sewanee has moderate winters, water entering your home can be as low as 50 °F. Traditional heaters must work longer to raise that temperature. Rheem’s HE designs recover heat faster and lose far less through the tank walls, so the thermostat cycles on less often. Most customers in Franklin County report annual savings of $80–$180 on gas or $100–$250 on electric after upgrading, depending on family size and local utility rates.
What size Rheem tank water heater should I choose for my household?
Sizing is based on your peak-hour demand—usually the hour when multiple showers, appliances, or faucets run simultaneously. A two-bath, 3–4-person home typically needs a 40- to 50-gallon high-efficiency gas model or a 50-gallon hybrid heat-pump electric unit. Larger households (5+ people) or homes with soaking tubs often step up to 65–75 gallons. Our Sewanee plumbing team offers a free on-site calculation that considers fixture counts, flow rates, and recovery needs so you get hot water without overspending on capacity.
Are there rebates, tax credits, or utility incentives available in Sewanee or Tennessee for installing a high-efficiency Rheem unit?
Yes. 1) The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (IRC 25C) allows up to 30 % of project cost, capped at $600 for qualifying gas heaters and $2,000 for heat-pump water heaters. 2) The Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight program often provides $150–$300 bill credits for ENERGY STAR certified units. 3) Local propane or natural-gas suppliers periodically issue $50–$100 appliance rebates. We handle all paperwork and supply AHRI certificates so you receive every available incentive.
How long does installation take, and what should I expect on the day of service?
Standard swap-outs (replacing a like-for-like tank in the same location) usually take 2–3 hours, including draining, removal, new water-line and gas-line connections, leak testing, and code inspections. Conversions to heat-pump electric or relocations can extend to 4–6 hours because they may involve condensate drains, dedicated circuits, or venting changes. Our licensed plumbers arrive with drop cloths, haul away the old unit for recycling, and give you a tutorial on the new controls before collecting final payment.
What maintenance does a Rheem high-efficiency tank water heater require to keep the warranty valid?
Rheem’s limited tank warranty ranges from 6 to 12 years. To keep it intact you should: 1) Flush sediment from the tank every 12 months (Sewanee’s moderately hard water makes this especially important). 2) Test the temperature-pressure relief valve annually. 3) Replace the anode rod every 3–5 years, or sooner if water softeners are used. 4) For heat-pump models, clean the air filter quarterly. Our service plan covers these tasks and records proof of maintenance should you ever need a warranty claim.