When Hot Water and Garbage Disposal Quit at the Same Time: A Knoxville Homeowner’s Story

HEP offers expert Plumbing services in Knoxville and is a trusted name for Plumbing in Knoxville projects.

Case Study

A Knoxville homeowner woke up to find no hot water and a completely silent garbage disposal. Morning routines came to a halt, and the kitchen sink was unusable. They reached out to HEP for a same-day service visit.

Diagnosis and Planning

Upon arrival, the HEP technician checked the crawl-space water heater and under-sink disposal unit. Both appliances showed signs of age and weren’t responding to standard resets or controls. Rather than patching older equipment, the technician recommended complete replacements for reliable long-term performance.

Solution and Replacement

After confirming the correct unit sizes and power requirements, the old heater was removed and a brand-new, energy-efficient model was installed in the crawl space. Nearby water lines were properly insulated to help maintain temperature and prevent heat loss. Next, the malfunctioning disposal was swapped out for a modern, quieter model under the kitchen sink. All electrical and plumbing connections were tightened and tested.

A newly installed water heater—clear labeling makes future maintenance easier.

Final Checks

With the new water heater filled and powered on, the homeowner immediately had hot water for showers. The garbage disposal was tested repeatedly to ensure smooth operation and no leaks. The HEP technician also pointed out the location of the emergency shut-off valve and demonstrated how to reset the disposal safely.

Freshly installed piping and a secure disposal connection—no drips, no worries.

Tips for Homeowners

Inspect Regularly: Peek under sinks and in crawl spaces twice a year for drips, corrosion, or rust.
Flush Your Heater: An annual flush can remove sediment buildup and extend the life of your water heater.
Keep Records: Snap a photo of your appliance labels and model numbers for quick reference during service calls.
Improve Ventilation: If your water heater lives in a tight space, ensure proper airflow to reduce moisture.
Know Your Valves: Locate the shut-off valve for both water and power switches for peace of mind in emergencies.

Adding a small dehumidifier helps keep under-sink areas dry and mold-free.

By partnering with a skilled HEP technician, Knoxville homeowners can count on swift, professional solutions when critical appliances fail. If you encounter a similar issue, reach out for reliable support and keep your household running smoothly.