Master Plumbers
Master Plumbers | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing
When your morning routine hinges on a steady stream of hot water, trust HEP’s master plumbers to keep your tank water heater running at peak performance. Our licensed specialists bring decades of experience to every attic, closet, and crawlspace, arriving on-time with fully stocked trucks and a neighborly attitude. From precise installations that match your household’s demand to quick, mess-free repairs, we handle the hard work so you can enjoy long, relaxing showers and perfectly clean dishes without a second thought.
HEP backs every service with transparent pricing, industry-leading warranties, and 24/7 emergency support—because cold showers are never convenient. Whether you’re upgrading to a high-efficiency model, flushing away sediment for better heat transfer, or troubleshooting a cranky thermostat, one call is all it takes to bring reliable comfort back home. Discover why homeowners across East Tennessee make HEP their first choice for everything plumbing, and give your tank water heater the professional care it deserves.
FAQs
How long does a standard tank water heater typically last?
Most conventional storage-tank water heaters have a life expectancy of 8–12 years. The glass-lined steel tank slowly corrodes from the inside, so once the lining and sacrificial anode rod are exhausted, leaks usually follow. Water quality (hard or acidic water), how often the unit is flushed, and whether the thermostat is set too high all influence longevity. If your heater is more than 10 years old, shows rust around the base, or no longer provides enough hot water, it is usually more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it.
What size tank water heater should I buy for my household?
Sizing is based on the number of people using hot water at the same time and the appliance’s First-Hour Rating (FHR)—how many gallons of hot water it can deliver in one hour. As a very general rule: • 1–2 people: 30–40-gallon tank • 3–4 people: 40–50 gallons • 5+ people: 50–80 gallons or more If you have a large soaking tub, multiple showers, or high-flow fixtures, you may need to step up a size or install a dedicated booster. Our master plumbers can calculate the exact FHR your family requires and recommend the right capacity, fuel type, and efficiency level.
My tank water heater is leaking—should I repair it or replace it?
First locate the leak: • At the drain valve, T&P valve, or cold-water inlet: these fittings can usually be repaired or replaced at modest cost. • Around the base or seams of the tank: this indicates internal corrosion. The tank wall itself has failed, and repairs are not possible. If the tank is leaking, shut off the cold-water supply and power or gas to the unit, then call a professional. Replacing the heater is the only safe option in that scenario. In borderline cases (e.g., faulty thermostat, bad heating element) we compare repair costs with the price and efficiency gains of a new unit to help you decide.
What routine maintenance does a tank water heater need?
1. Flush the tank at least once a year to remove sediment that insulates the burner and accelerates corrosion. 2. Inspect and, if necessary, replace the anode rod every 3–5 years; this inexpensive rod sacrifices itself to protect the steel tank. 3. Test the temperature-and-pressure (T&P) relief valve annually to ensure it opens and reseats freely. 4. Keep the thermostat set around 120 °F (49 °C) to reduce scald risk and slow mineral buildup. 5. Check for signs of moisture, rust, or soot around the burner compartment. Our maintenance visits typically take under an hour and can double the life of the heater while keeping energy costs down.
Are tank water heaters energy-efficient, and how do they compare with tankless units?
Standard gas or electric storage heaters have Energy Factor (EF) ratings around 0.58–0.67, meaning roughly 60 % of the energy becomes usable hot water; standby heat loss from the stored volume lowers efficiency. High-efficiency condensing gas models can reach 0.80–0.90 EF. Tankless (on-demand) heaters average 0.90–0.98 EF because they avoid standby losses. However, tank models cost less up front, can deliver large volumes of hot water simultaneously, and are easier to install in retrofits. Adding an insulation blanket and timely maintenance can narrow the operating-cost gap. We help homeowners weigh initial cost, fuel availability, and usage patterns to choose the best fit.
How long does professional installation take, and what is involved?
A straightforward replacement of a similar-sized gas or electric tank heater usually takes 2–4 hours: 1. Shut off water, gas, or electricity and drain the old tank. 2. Disconnect venting, gas or electric lines, and water connections. 3. Remove and recycle the old unit. 4. Set the new tank, level it, connect dielectric unions, pressure-test all joints, and install a new shut-off valve if needed. 5. Reconnect venting or upgrade to meet current code. 6. Fill, purge air, relight the pilot or energize elements, and verify proper operation. Permits and inspections are often required; our licensed master plumbers handle all paperwork and ensure the install meets local plumbing and safety codes.