Rex Plumbing: Water Heater Services in South Carolina

What Rex Plumbing offers for water heater work

Rex Plumbing is a South Carolina-based plumbing company that handles water heater installation and repair across the state. They work on both tank and tankless systems, and they serve residential customers in multiple counties. If you're looking for a local plumber to diagnose a problem, replace an old unit, or install a new one, Rex Plumbing is one option to contact for a quote.

The company operates as a traditional service business—you call, describe your situation, and they send a technician to assess the work. Like most plumbing contractors, they charge for the service call, the parts, and labor. Knowing what to expect before you call can help you prepare questions and understand what information they'll need from you.

Key Takeaways

• Rex Plumbing handles both water heater repair and full replacement, so one call can cover diagnosis and next steps.
• You'll need to know your water heater's age, type (tank or tankless), and what problem you're experiencing before calling for an estimate.
• Service calls typically include a diagnostic fee, and the plumber will explain repair costs versus replacement costs before proceeding.
• Getting multiple quotes from different plumbers helps you compare pricing and understand whether repair or replacement makes sense for your situation.

How to contact Rex Plumbing for a water heater estimate

Start by calling Rex Plumbing directly to schedule a service visit. Have ready the age of your water heater (check the label on the tank or tankless unit), whether it's a tank or tankless model, and a description of what's happening—no hot water, leaking, strange noises, or slow recovery time. The company will ask where you're located to confirm they serve your area and will give you an idea of when a technician can visit.

During the visit, the technician will inspect the unit, test it, and explain what they find. If repair is possible, they'll quote the cost. If replacement is the better option—usually because the unit is old, the repair is expensive, or the system is failing—they'll discuss replacement models and pricing. You're not obligated to accept their quote; it's normal to get estimates from other plumbers before deciding.

Repair versus replacement decisions

Water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years for tank models and 15 to 20 years for tankless systems. If your unit is in that age range and needs a significant repair, replacement often makes more financial sense than fixing it. A technician from Rex Plumbing can help you weigh the cost of repair against the cost of a new unit plus installation.

Factors that favor replacement include a unit that's already 10 or more years old, a repair that costs more than half the price of a new water heater, or recurring problems. Factors that favor repair include a newer unit with a single, fixable issue like a faulty thermostat or a leaking valve. Ask the technician to explain the expected lifespan of the repair—will it last another year or two, or is it a permanent fix?

What to expect during installation

If you decide to replace your water heater, installation typically takes a few hours for a tank model and longer for a tankless system, which may require gas line or electrical work. Rex Plumbing will handle removing the old unit, installing the new one, connecting it to your existing plumbing and gas or electrical lines, and testing it. They should also explain how to use any new features, like a digital display on a tankless model.

Before installation day, clear the area around your water heater so the technician has room to work. If you're replacing a tank with a tankless system, ask whether any modifications to your home's gas or electrical setup are needed—these can add to the overall cost and timeline. The plumber should provide a warranty on the new unit and on their labor.

Comparing Rex Plumbing to other local options

South Carolina has many licensed plumbing contractors, and prices and service quality vary. Before calling Rex Plumbing, consider getting quotes from at least two other companies in your area. Ask each one the same questions: What is the service call fee? What is included in that fee? Do they charge differently for emergency calls? What warranty do they offer on parts and labor?

Check online reviews on Google, the Better Business Bureau, or local directories to see what customers say about response time, professionalism, and whether the final bill matched the estimate. A company that's been in business locally for several years and has consistent positive feedback is usually a safer choice than one with no track record. Don't choose based on price alone—a cheap estimate that turns into unexpected charges is more costly than a fair price upfront.

Understanding water heater warranties and guarantees

New water heaters come with a manufacturer's warranty that typically covers the tank or heat exchanger for 6 to 12 years, depending on the model and brand. This warranty covers defects in the unit itself, not damage from installation or normal wear. Rex Plumbing should provide documentation of the manufacturer's warranty when they install your new unit.

The plumbing company may also offer a labor warranty—a promise that if something goes wrong with their installation work within a certain period, they'll fix it at no charge. Ask what that period is (often one year) and what it covers. Labor warranties are valuable because they show the company stands behind their work. Always keep your receipt and warranty paperwork in case you need to make a claim later.

Preparing for a service call

Before the technician arrives, know where your water heater is located and how to access it. If it's in a basement, attic, or closet, make sure the path is clear. Turn off the water and power to the unit if you suspect a leak or serious problem—the technician will turn them back on when they arrive. If you've noticed anything unusual—a smell, a sound, the date the problem started—write it down so you can describe it accurately.

Have your address and phone number ready, and ask whether the company needs access to your electrical panel or gas shutoff valve. If you rent rather than own, check your lease to see whether the landlord or property manager is responsible for water heater repair; you may need to contact them instead of calling a plumber directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a water heater service call cost?

Service call fees vary by plumbing company and region. Most charge between $75 and $150 for a diagnostic visit. Some companies waive the fee if you hire them to do the repair or installation, while others charge it regardless. Ask Rex Plumbing about their service call fee when you call to schedule.

Can Rex Plumbing install a tankless water heater if I currently have a tank?

Yes, tankless installation is possible, but it may require modifications to your home's gas lines, electrical wiring, or venting. The technician will assess your setup during the estimate and explain what changes are needed and what they'll cost. Tankless systems are more expensive upfront but use less energy over time.

What should I do if my water heater is leaking?

Turn off the water supply to the unit immediately to prevent water damage. If it's leaking from the bottom of the tank, the tank itself is likely failing and replacement is usually necessary. If it's leaking from a valve or connection, repair may be possible. Call Rex Plumbing or another plumber right away to diagnose the source.

How long does a water heater installation take?

Tank water heater installation typically takes 2 to 4 hours, including removal of the old unit. Tankless installation can take 4 to 8 hours or longer if gas or electrical modifications are needed. The technician will give you a time estimate when you schedule the appointment.

Do I need a permit for water heater replacement?

Permit requirements vary by county and city in South Carolina. Some jurisdictions require a permit for any water heater installation, while others don't. Ask Rex Plumbing whether they handle permits as part of their service, or contact your local building department to find out what applies in your area.