10 Essential Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Save Money and Stress
Keeping your home comfortable starts with a reliable water heater, yet many homeowners forget to maintain it until problems arise. Regular water heater maintenance is essential for safety, efficiency, and long-term savings. In this article, we’ll cover 10 easy-to-follow water heater maintenance tips to protect your home, save money, and keep your water heater working like new.
Why Is Water Heater Maintenance Important?
Your water heater is always working behind the scenes to provide hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes. Ignoring it can lead to high energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and costly repairs. Regular maintenance allows you to catch small issues early, so your water heater runs efficiently and lasts longer.
1. Check for Leaks Regularly
Leaks are one of the first signs of trouble. Make it a habit to check your water heater and pipes for any signs of leaks. Early detection can prevent water damage and keep your water heater running efficiently.
2. Flush the Tank Every Year
Sediment buildup inside your water heater can damage the tank and reduce its efficiency. Flushing the tank once a year helps remove sediment, ensuring your system works smoothly and efficiently.
3. Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod helps prevent corrosion inside your water heater. Checking it regularly and replacing it when needed can extend the life of your water heater.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
Your water heater’s pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents pressure buildup, which could lead to tank explosions. Regularly testing the valve ensures it works correctly and keeps your home safe.
5. Inspect Heating Elements (for Electric Water Heaters)
If you have an electric water heater, the heating elements should be checked periodically. Over time, they can wear out and affect the water temperature. Replacing faulty elements ensures your water heater is working at its best.
6. Set Your Water Heater to 120°F (49°C)
Maintaining the right temperature (120°F) helps save energy and prevents scalding. It’s the ideal setting for safety and efficiency.
7. Monitor Energy Usage
By performing regular maintenance, you can identify inefficiencies that increase energy bills. Keeping your system running efficiently helps you save money in the long run and extend the life of your water heater.
8. Look for Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion on your water heater or pipes can lead to leaks or even total failure. Regularly checking for signs of rust helps you stay ahead of costly repairs.
9. Listen for Strange Noises
If your water heater is making strange noises like banging, popping, or rumbling, it may indicate sediment buildup. These noises can signal that it’s time for maintenance to keep your water heater in top condition.
10. Schedule Professional Inspections
While some maintenance tasks are easy to handle on your own, a professional inspection ensures that every part of your system is working properly. A plumber can catch hidden problems before they escalate into costly repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How often should I have my water heater inspected?
A: Ideally, you should schedule a professional inspection once a year, especially for older systems, to catch small issues before they become bigger problems.
Q2: Can I do water heater maintenance myself?
A: Yes, you can handle some tasks like flushing the tank or checking the anode rod. For more complex checks, like testing the pressure relief valve, it’s best to call a professional.
Q3: What are the signs my water heater needs maintenance?
A: Look out for inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, leaks, or rusty water—these are all signs that your water heater needs attention.
Q4: How long does water heater maintenance take?
A: Professional maintenance typically takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the condition and size of your system.
Q5: How often should I flush my water heater?
A: Flushing your water heater once a year is recommended to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
Contact Us
For all your plumbing needs, contact us at 850-562-2600 or visit www.keithlawson.com.
Keep your home safe, comfortable, and plumbing-problem free with help from our expert team!
Keith Lawson Services is an American Standard Customer Care Dealer, proudly serving the Tallahassee area for over 44 years. We have the tools and expertise to handle all your plumbing and HVAC needs, ensuring that every repair, replacement, or renovation runs smoothly and stress-free.
Schedule your water heater maintenance today to prevent costly repairs and keep your home running efficiently.