- HEP Plumbing
- Emergency Support

Emergency Support
Emergency Support | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Tellico Plains
When your morning shower turns iceâcold or a leaking unit threatens to flood the basement, HEPâs emergency support team is ready 24/7 for Tellico Plains neighbors. Our certified plumbers arrive fast, stocked with parts and know-how to diagnose, repair, or replace any make or model of tank water heater, restoring hot water and peace of mind before bigger damage sets in.
From recalibrating thermostats and replacing burned-out heating elements to safely hauling away a corroded tank, we handle every step with transparent pricing and genuine hometown courtesy. Trust HEP to keep your family comfortable, your business running, and your tank water heater working reliablyâday or night, rain or shine.
FAQs
What situations count as a tank-type water heater emergency in Tellico Plains?
Any condition that threatens safety, causes property damage, or removes all hot-water service is considered an emergency. Common examples include a leaking or ruptured tank, water spraying from relief or drain valves, no hot water during freezing temperatures, electrical burning smells, gas odors around the unit, or loud rumbling/booming noises that suggest overheating or sediment buildup. If you notice any of these issues, shut off power or gas to the heater if you can do so safely, turn off the cold-water supply, and call our 24-hour line immediately.
How fast can your emergency plumbers get to my home or business in Tellico Plains?
We maintain on-call technicians who live and stage service vehicles in and around Tellico Plains. In most cases we can be at any address inside city limits within 60 minutesâoften faster during normal traffic conditions. Rural or mountain locations just outside town usually see arrival times of 60â90 minutes. Our dispatcher will give you a live ETA, track the techâs GPS location, and send text updates so you know exactly when help will arrive.
What should I do while waiting for the emergency plumber to show up?
1. Shut off the water: Locate the cold-water inlet valve on top of the heater and turn it clockwise until it stops. If you cannot reach it safely, close the homeâs main water valve. 2. Turn off energy sources: For gas units, set the gas control knob to âOFF.â For electric units, switch the dedicated breaker off. 3. Contain any leaks: Place buckets or towels around the base to limit water damage, but avoid touching any standing water near electrical components. 4. Do NOT drain the tank unless instructedâan uncontrolled drain may worsen leaking. 5. Gather information: Note the model/serial number and describe noises, odors, or error codes. This helps the technician bring the right parts. 6. Keep children and pets away from the area until repairs are complete.
Can you service or repair any brand and size of conventional tank water heater?
Yes. Our plumbers are factory-trained on gas, propane, and electric tank heaters from Rheem, A. O. Smith, Bradford White, State, Whirlpool, GE, Kenmore, and other manufacturers, ranging from 20- to 120-gallon capacities. We carry universal replacement thermostats, heating elements, gas valves, thermocouples, anode rods, and T&P valves on each truck so that most models can be repaired on the first visit, even if they are older or out of warranty.
Will I need a complete replacement, or can most emergencies be fixed on the spot?
Roughly 80 % of emergency calls end with a same-day repairâsuch as replacing a failed heating element, gas control valve, or leaking drain valveâso you regain hot water quickly with minimal cost. A full replacement is only required when the tank itself is rusted through, the unit is over 10â12 years old and unsafe to operate, or repair parts exceed half the cost of a new heater. If replacement is the better option, we can install a new high-efficiency model within hours, handle permit paperwork, and haul away the old unit.
How much does after-hours emergency tank water heater service cost in Tellico Plains?
Our upfront pricing includes a flat diagnostic fee that covers travel and a complete system inspectionâno surprise mileage or âshow-upâ charges. Evening, weekend, and holiday calls do carry a modest emergency premium, but we always quote repair or replacement costs before work begins. Typical after-hours repairs (thermocouple, element, thermostat, minor leak fixes) range from $125 to $350, parts and labor included. Larger repairs such as gas valve replacement or complete tank change-outs are quoted individually. We accept major credit cards, local checks, and offer financing on new installations.