Customer Service
Customer Service | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Newport
When your morning starts with icy water or rumbling pipes, you need a plumbing team that shows up fast and fixes it right the first time. HEPâs friendly technicians in Newport specialize in swift diagnostics, transparent pricing, and meticulous workmanshipâso you can get back to hot, soothing showers without the headaches. From routine flushes to emergency repairs, we keep every component running efficiently and safely, all while treating your home with the utmost respect.
Choosing HEP means choosing local experts who understand the unique water conditions of Newport and tailor solutions to maximize performance and lifespan. Whether you need a brand-new tank water heater installed or a quick tune-up on your existing unit, we stand behind our work with industry-leading warranties and a 100% satisfaction promise.
FAQs
What services do you provide for tank-style water heaters in Newport?
We handle the full life-cycle of a conventional storage-tank water heater. That includes new installations, like-for-like replacements, emergency repairs, annual flushing and descaling, anode-rod replacement, thermostat or heating-element swaps, leak detection, and code upgrades such as adding thermal-expansion tanks, drain pans, or seismic strapping. We also dispose of the old unit, secure all required permits with the City of Newport, and perform post-installation safety and efficiency checks.
How can I tell whether my tank water heater needs repair or complete replacement?
Age is the first indicatorâmost tank heaters last 8â12 years. Other red flags are puddling or rust around the base, rusty or milky water, popping or rumbling sounds, a noticeable drop in hot-water volume, or soaring energy bills. Minor issues like failed thermostats, pilot assemblies, or heating elements can often be repaired the same day. However, if the tank itself is leaking, corrosion is extensive, or the unit is 10+ years old, replacement is the safer and more cost-effective option. We offer free on-site evaluations to help you decide.
What is the normal lifespan of a storage-tank water heater, and how can I extend it?
A properly installed gas or electric tank unit in Newport typically lasts 8â12 years. You can squeeze out extra years by flushing the tank annually to remove sediment, keeping the thermostat at 120 °F to reduce thermal stress, testing the temperature-and-pressure (T&P) relief valve every six months, and replacing the sacrificial anode rod every 3â5 years. Adding a water softener if you have hard water, installing a thermal-expansion tank, and scheduling a yearly professional inspection also slow corrosion and wear.
How long will I be without hot water during a replacement, and what does the installation involve?
A straightforward like-for-like replacement usually takes 2â4 hours once we arrive on site. During that window, hot water is unavailable, but cold water remains on for other household uses. The steps include draining and removing the old tank, bringing the new heater up or down the property safely, updating gas, electric, or vent connections, filling and purging the new tank, and verifying temperature, pressure, and burner or element operation. We finish by hauling away the old unit, cleaning the work area, and filing the permit closure paperwork.
Do I need a permit to install or replace a tank water heater in Newport?
Yes. The City of Newportâs Building & Inspection Services Division requires a plumbing/mechanical permit for any water-heater replacement or new installation. Gas units also need a gas permit and, in some cases, a ventilation inspection. The work must follow Rhode Island State Plumbing Code (or your local code) and may require seismic strapping, a drain pan with a routed drain, and a dedicated shut-off valve. We handle the permit application, schedule the city inspection, and ensure your new heater passes code the first time.
What routine maintenance should I schedule, and can I do any of it myself?
Homeowners can safely drain a few gallons from the drain valve every three months to flush out sediment and press the T&P valve lever briefly to make sure it isnât stuck. For safety, turn the thermostat to âvacationâ or shut off power/fuel during these DIY tasks. Annual professional serviceâwhich we provideâincludes a complete flush, anode-rod inspection or replacement, dielectric fitting check, burner or element cleaning, gas-pressure or electrical test, thermostat calibration, and a leak/combustion-air review. This inexpensive service fee is far less than the cost of premature tank failure.