Customer Service
Customer Service | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Townsend
When your morning routine grinds to a halt because the shower turns ice-cold, count on HEP’s seasoned plumbers in Townsend to bring the heat back fast. Our crew has serviced every make and model of tank water heater on the market, so whether you need a swift repair, a full-scale replacement, or routine maintenance, we arrive with the parts, expertise, and neighborly attitude to get hot water flowing again—often the very same day. We test safety valves, flush sediment, and calibrate thermostats to squeeze every ounce of efficiency out of your current unit, saving you money while extending its lifespan.
Looking to upgrade? HEP guides you through capacity choices, energy ratings, and rebate opportunities to ensure your new tank water heater meets your family’s needs and your budget. From transparent, upfront pricing to spotless clean-up, we treat your home like our own and back every job with a satisfaction guarantee. One call, and you’ll see why Townsend homeowners keep our number on speed dial whenever hot water is on the line.
FAQs
How long can I expect a conventional tank water heater to last in Townsend?
With proper maintenance, most gas or electric tank water heaters in the Townsend area last 8–12 years. Our region’s moderately hard water can accelerate sediment buildup, so annual flushing and anode-rod inspections are key to reaching—or even exceeding—the upper end of that life span.
What warning signs mean my tank water heater needs repair or replacement?
Common red flags include rumbling or popping noises, rusty-colored hot water, a visible leak at the base, water that takes longer to heat, sudden temperature swings, or higher energy bills. If your unit is 10+ years old and shows two or more of these symptoms, replacement is usually the most cost-effective solution.
Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Townsend?
Yes. New Castle County requires a plumbing permit and inspection for any water heater replacement to ensure the unit is installed to current code (IRC, IPC, NEC) and that safety devices such as T&P relief valves, expansion tanks, and seismic strapping are in place. Our team pulls the permit, schedules the inspection, and provides the final approval paperwork for your records.
How often should I flush my water heater, and why is it important?
We recommend draining and flushing the tank once a year in Townsend. Flushing removes sediment that settles at the bottom of the tank, which otherwise insulates the burner or elements, reduces efficiency, shortens life span, and can cause noisy operation. A 20-minute annual service can save up to 5% on water-heating costs and extend the unit’s life by several years.
Can I upgrade to a high-efficiency or larger-capacity model without major modifications?
In most cases, yes. Today’s high-efficiency gas, electric, and hybrid heat-pump water heaters come in the same 30-, 40-, 50-, and 75-gallon footprints as standard models but feature better insulation and controls. During a free in-home assessment, we verify available clearance, venting, gas or electrical requirements, and calculate recovery rate to recommend the biggest energy savings with minimal changes to your existing connections.
What should I do if my water heater is leaking or producing no hot water?
1) Turn off power (the circuit breaker for electric units or the gas shut-off valve for gas units). 2) Close the cold-water supply valve to limit flooding. 3) Attach a hose to the drain valve to direct any leaking water to a floor drain. 4) Call our 24/7 emergency line at (302) 555-0142. We can usually arrive anywhere in Townsend within 60 minutes, diagnose the cause—failed valve, heating element, thermostat, or tank rupture—and advise whether repair or replacement is the safest, most economical option.