Expert Team
Expert Team | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Reliance
When your morning shower depends on a steady stream of hot water, you need professionals who won’t leave you out in the cold. HEP’s expert team in Reliance specializes in every facet of a tank water heater, from precise installations and code-compliant replacements to fast, no-mess repairs. Our licensed plumbers arrive with fully stocked trucks, upfront pricing, and the know-how to fine-tune efficiency so you can enjoy lower energy bills and longer appliance life.
Whether your current unit is rumbling in protest or you’re ready to upgrade to a larger capacity, one call brings friendly, same-day service backed by decades of local experience. We flush sediments, replace failing thermostats, fix leaks, and handle emergency outages 24/7, all while treating your home with the respect it deserves. Trust HEP to keep your tank water heater delivering reliable comfort—today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
FAQs
How long should a traditional tank water heater typically last?
With proper installation and routine maintenance, a conventional gas or electric tank water heater usually lasts 8–12 years. Factors such as water quality, usage patterns, and maintenance frequency can extend or shorten that life span. Our Reliance plumbing experts recommend annual inspections and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup and maximize longevity.
What maintenance is required to keep my tank water heater running efficiently?
Key maintenance steps include: (1) draining or flushing the tank once a year to remove sediment; (2) checking and replacing the anode rod every 3–5 years; (3) testing the temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve annually; and (4) verifying that the thermostat is set to 120 °F for efficiency and safety. Our service team can perform these tasks during a quick annual visit, helping prevent leaks, corrosion, and unexpected breakdowns.
How do I know when it’s time to replace rather than repair my water heater?
Warning signs include water that is rusty or has a metallic taste, rumbling or popping noises from excess sediment, visible leaks at the tank base, or water that never reaches set temperature. If your unit is over 10 years old and needs frequent or costly repairs, replacement is usually more economical. Our Reliance technicians will inspect the system, outline repair vs. replacement costs, and help you choose the best option.
What size tank water heater do I need for my household?
Sizing depends on household size, simultaneous hot-water demands, and peak usage. A family of 2–3 often needs a 40-gallon unit, 3–4 people typically require 50 gallons, and larger families or homes with high-flow fixtures may need 66–80 gallons. We calculate your peak hour demand and match it to a unit’s first-hour rating (FHR) to ensure you never run out of hot water while minimizing energy waste.
Are there ways to improve the energy efficiency of my existing tank water heater?
Yes. First, insulate older tanks (unless the manufacturer prohibits it) with an R-10 or higher insulating blanket. Second, insulate 6–10 feet of the hot-water outlet pipe. Third, lower the thermostat to 120 °F. Fourth, fix leaky faucets to reduce demand. Finally, schedule annual maintenance so sediment does not force the unit to work harder. If you’re still seeing high energy bills, upgrading to a newer high-efficiency model can cut heating costs by 10–20 %.
How long does a typical water heater installation take, and what should I expect from Reliance’s service?
In most cases, our licensed plumbers can remove your old tank and install a new one within 2–4 hours. We handle permitting, deliver and position the new unit, connect water and gas/electric lines, test for leaks, and haul away the old heater for eco-friendly disposal. You’ll receive a walkthrough of the system, warranty documentation, and maintenance tips before we leave your home cleaner than we found it.