- HEP Plumbing
- Certified Plumbers

Certified Plumbers
Certified Plumbers | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Strawberry Plains
When the hot water runs cold in Strawberry Plains, HEP’s certified plumbers are ready to roll up in a flash, fully stocked and factory-trained to revive, replace, or install your tank water heater. We pair decades of experience with honest, up-front pricing, so you’ll always know exactly what’s happening in your utility closet—and what it will cost—before we lift a wrench. From flushing sediment to swapping out anode rods, every service call is handled with the same neighbor-first attitude that’s kept homes cozy across East Tennessee since 2002.
Choosing HEP means 24/7 live phone support, same-day appointments whenever possible, and workmanship backed by iron-clad warranties. Whether you’re upgrading for better energy efficiency, tackling a surprise leak, or need help decoding those blinking status lights, our licensed pros keep the process smooth and the cleanup spotless. Count on us to protect your investment, extend equipment life, and ensure you never have to think twice about hot water again.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my home in Strawberry Plains?
The right size depends on the number of people and simultaneous hot-water tasks in your household. As a rule of thumb, a 30–40 gal tank serves 1–2 people, 40–50 gal works for 3–4, and 50–80 gal is best for 5 or more. Families that run multiple showers, a dishwasher, and a washing machine at the same time may need a larger or high-recovery model. Our certified plumbers can perform a hot-water usage analysis and factor in local groundwater temperature to recommend the most efficient capacity for your Strawberry Plains home.
How long should a standard tank water heater last, and when is replacement recommended?
Conventional gas or electric tank units generally last 8–12 years in East Tennessee’s water conditions. You should consider replacement if the unit is over 10 years old and shows signs such as rusty or sandy water, rumbling noises, rising utility bills, or moisture around the base. Once the glass-lined tank starts to corrode, repair is rarely cost-effective. During a safety inspection, we can measure anode-rod wear, check the burner or elements, and help you decide whether repair or full replacement is the smarter investment.
Are energy-efficient tank water heaters available, and what benefits do they offer?
Yes. ENERGY STAR-rated conventional tanks have thicker insulation, high-performance burners or elements, and better heat traps, cutting water-heating costs by 8–20 percent. Heat-pump (hybrid) water heaters go further, using ambient air to heat water and saving up to 60 percent on energy. Strawberry Plains homeowners may also qualify for TVA or manufacturer rebates on high-efficiency models. Our licensed plumbers can explain payback periods, available incentives, and the space or electrical requirements for each efficiency option.
How quickly can your certified plumbers install or replace a water heater in Strawberry Plains?
In most cases we offer same-day installation. After you approve an estimate, we pull the Knox or Jefferson County permit (if required), drain and remove the old unit, set the new tank, connect water, gas, or electric lines, and bring the installation up to current code. The physical swap-out typically takes 2–4 hours. Emergency replacements are available 24/7, and we haul away and recycle the old heater at no additional charge.
What routine maintenance does a tank water heater need?
Annual maintenance maximizes efficiency and lifespan. Key tasks include: (1) full or partial flush to remove sediment that reduces heating efficiency; (2) testing the temperature-and-pressure relief valve for safety; (3) inspecting the anode rod every 2–3 years and replacing it when more than 50 percent depleted; (4) checking burner flames or electric elements; and (5) setting the thermostat to 120 °F to curb scald risk and energy waste. We offer affordable service plans for Strawberry Plains residents that cover these checks and provide priority scheduling.
What warning signs mean my water heater needs repair, and what should I do?
Call for service if you notice lukewarm or rapidly cooling water, discolored or metallic-tasting water, popping or banging sounds, a sulfur (rotten-egg) odor, pooling water around the tank, or the pilot light repeatedly going out. First, switch the unit to the OFF setting, shut the cold-water supply at the top of the tank, and turn off power or gas at the breaker or gas valve. Then contact our certified plumbers—available day or night—to diagnose the issue and prevent property damage or safety hazards.