Keeping a close eye on your water heater doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Every homeowner knows the dread of unexpected cold showers or high repair bills, but few realize that regular water heater maintenance can prevent these issues before they start. With an average ROI sitting pretty at 3800%, paying attention to this crucial household appliance could save you more than just discomfort—it could save substantial money in the long run.
What Is Water Heater Maintenance?
Your water heater is an important part of your home’s plumbing system, providing hot water on demand. Homeowners today might shudder at the prospect of going even a day without hot water for their shower or dishwasher. However, a faulty water heater will result in just that—plus hundreds of dollars in repair or replacement costs. Although many water heater issues can be repaired, the cost of labor and replacement parts often exceeds $100. Some problems, including most tank leaks, require a full water heater replacement. The cost of a new water heater can range from $600–$3,500 depending on the size and model. Staying on top of regular maintenance is your best bet for dodging those expensive repairs and replacements down the line.
Common Water Heater Issues
Some common water heater problems include:
- No hot water
- Not enough hot water
- Water temperature too hot or cold
- Tank leaks
- Discolored or smelly water
- Strange noises coming from tank
Staying on top of regular maintenance can head off many of these issues before they ever become a problem. Catching small problems early can save you from bigger headaches down the road.
Types of Water Heaters
There are several types of water heaters, including:
- Conventional storage tank water heaters
- Tankless or on-demand water heaters
- Heat pump water heaters
- Solar water heaters
- Condensing water heaters
Every type comes with its own set of maintenance must-haves. However, most require some form of regular flushing, inspection, and part replacement to keep them running smoothly.
Steps to Maintain Your Water Heater
Taking good care of your water heater isn’t just a chore—it’s your ticket to dodging those expensive fixes and squeezing every last bit of life out of it. Here are some key steps to include in your maintenance routine:
Flush the Tank
Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank. This can slow things down and even cause blockages. Flushing your tank annually helps remove this sediment. Here’s how:
- Turn off power to electric heaters or set gas heaters to “pilot.”
- Shut off cold water supply valve.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve.
- Open hot water tap in sink to prevent vacuum.
- Open drain valve and let tank empty.
- Turn cold water back on briefly to stir up remaining sediment, then drain again.
- Close drain valve, disconnect hose, turn water supply back on, and restore power/relight pilot light.
Test the Temperature Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve prevents dangerous pressure buildup in your tank. Test it annually to make sure it’s working properly:
- Place a bucket under the pipe connected to the TPR valve.
- Lift the valve’s tab to let some water out, then let go.
- If water keeps flowing, drain the tank partway, unscrew the old valve with a pipe wrench, and install a new one.
Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod plays the hero by luring away corrosive elements from your water, acting as a shield to keep the tank from succumbing to rust. Check it every few years and replace it if:
- More than 6 inches of the core steel wire is exposed.
- The rod is less than 1/2 inch thick.
- The rod is coated with calcium.
To check the rod:
- Shut off power/gas and water supply.
- Locate the hex head on top of the heater and unscrew it with a 1 1/16-inch socket.
Adjust Water Temperature
Many water heaters are set at 140°F by default. Turning down the heat to 120°F not only helps save on energy bills but also keeps those nasty scalds at bay. To adjust:
- Locate the temperature dial on the side of the tank.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust it to the desired temperature.
Insulate Pipes and Tank
Adding insulation to your pipes and tank can improve efficiency by 4%–9%. To insulate:
- Cut pipe sleeves to length and slip them over pipes.
- Wrap an insulating blanket around the tank, careful not to block the thermostat.
- Secure blanket with tape, wire, or cable ties.
Benefits of Proper Water Heater Maintenance
Your water heater works hard behind the scenes to make modern life possible. Show it some love with regular maintenance and enjoy benefits like: Sediment buildup and failing parts can cause your water heater to work overtime. A well-maintained unit runs more efficiently, saving energy and money. In fact, adding insulation and lowering the temperature can reduce heat loss by up to 45% and shave 9% off water heating costs.
Extended Lifespan
The average lifespan of a tank water heater is 8–12 years. But with proper care, yours could last much longer. Switching out the anode rod, giving your water heater a good flush to clear out sediment, and keeping an eye out for leaks can really help your water heater stick around a lot longer. Think of maintenance as an investment that pays you back in reliable hot water for years to come. Water heating accounts for about 18% of the average home’s energy use. An efficient water heater uses less energy to do its job, lowering your utility bills. Simple tweaks like insulating pipes, lowering the temperature, and flushing the tank can lead to real savings over time. You’ll also avoid the added cost of running an inefficient unit into the ground.
Prevention of Costly Repairs
A small puddle under the tank or a strange popping noise could be early warning signs of a failing water heater. Catching issues early with regular inspections can prevent catastrophic leaks and breakdowns. Replacing a $20 anode rod or $15 valve is much cheaper than cleaning up a flood or replacing your entire unit. An ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure.
When to Call a Professional for Water Heater Service
While some maintenance tasks are simple DIY jobs, others are best left to the pros. Here’s when to put down the tools and pick up the phone:
Signs of Water Heater Failure
Some signs of a failing water heater are hard to miss, like:
- No hot water
- Popping or rumbling noises
- Leaking tank
- Inconsistent water temperature
- Discolored or smelly water
If you notice any of these red flags, call a plumber ASAP. Waiting will likely make the problem worse and more expensive to fix.
Importance of Professional Inspection
Even if your water heater seems to be working fine, it’s a good idea to have it professionally serviced every few years. A plumber can spot small issues before they become big problems. During an inspection, a pro will:
- Test the pressure relief valve
- Check the anode rod
- Flush the tank
- Look for signs of corrosion or leaks
- Make sure all parts are working properly
Think of it like a tune-up for your water heater. Regular checkups keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
Maintenance Tasks Best Left to Experts
Some maintenance tasks are too complex or dangerous for the average homeowner, like:
- Replacing a pressure relief valve
- Fixing a gas leak
- Replacing a heating element
- Repairing tank leaks
If you’re unsure how to complete a repair or maintenance task, err on the side of caution. Call a licensed plumber to handle the job safely and correctly.
FAQs in Relation to Water Heater Maintenance
What maintenance does a water heater need?
Your water heater requires regular flushing, anode rod checks, temperature adjustments, and insulation updates to stay in optimal condition.
How often should you flush a water heater?
It is recommended to give your water heater a thorough flush once a year. This helps keep sediment at bay and maintains its efficiency.
What happens if you don’t flush your water heater?
If you neglect to flush your water heater, you may encounter problems. Sediment can build up, reducing efficiency and lifespan, and increasing energy bills.
Can I flush my water heater myself?
Yes, you can. With basic tools and a bit of caution, DIY enthusiasts can tackle this task without much difficulty or expense.
Conclusion
So, we’ve journeyed through the ins and outs of keeping your water hot without burning through cash or patience. Okay, so keeping your water heater in check might not win any awards for excitement, but by now you should be pretty convinced that it’s absolutely critical. From flushing out sediment build-up to checking up on the anode rod—these steps aren’t just chores; they’re investments in peace of mind and financial savings. If you need to find a local pro, book HERE.
