Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Extend Its Lifespan
Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home—quietly powering your showers, dishwashing, and laundry every single day. But without regular maintenance, it can lose efficiency, develop problems, or even stop working altogether well before its expected lifespan.
The good news? With just a little attention each year, you can help your water heater run more efficiently, avoid costly repairs, and last for years longer. Here are some simple maintenance tips every homeowner should know.
🔧 1. Flush the Tank Once a Year
Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of your tank—especially in areas with hard water like San Angelo. That buildup can lead to overheating, strange noises, and a shorter system lifespan.
How to flush it:
Turn off the power or gas to your heater.
Attach a hose to the drain valve at the base.
Let the tank fully drain to remove sediment.
Refill and restart the unit.
Tip: If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s a quick job for a professional technician.
🛡️ 2. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a metal rod inside your tank that attracts corrosion to protect the tank’s interior. Once it's fully corroded, your tank starts rusting—shortening its life.
Check it every 2–3 years.
If more than 6 inches of the core wire is visible, it’s time to replace it.
🌡️ 3. Set the Temperature to 120°F
Many water heaters come set at 140°F, but that’s hotter than most homes need—and it wastes energy.
Benefits of 120°F:
Reduces wear on the tank
Prevents scalding
Lowers energy bills
🚿 4. Inspect for Leaks and Rust
Take a look around your water heater a few times a year. Check for:
Rust on the tank or fittings
Damp areas on the floor
Drips from valves or pipes
Small issues can quickly turn into big leaks if ignored.
⚠️ 5. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is a key safety feature—it releases pressure if the tank overheats. You should test it once a year.
To test:
Place a bucket under the valve.
Lift the lever and let it snap back.
Water should discharge briefly. If it doesn’t, the valve may need replacing.
🧼 6. Clear the Area Around Your Unit
Your water heater needs air to work safely and efficiently, especially if it's gas-powered.
Keep at least 2 feet of clear space around the unit.
Avoid stacking boxes or storing flammables nearby.
🛠️ 7. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
While some tasks are DIY-friendly, a yearly inspection by a licensed plumber can catch deeper issues and keep your unit running safely and efficiently. Technicians will:
Flush the system
Check for leaks and corrosion
Test safety valves and connections
Inspect for proper venting
💡 Keep Your Hot Water Flowing Strong
Just like your HVAC system, your water heater needs a little love to stay in top shape. These simple maintenance tips can save you from cold showers, emergency repairs, and early replacements.
📞 Need help with your water heater? Let’s take care of it before it becomes a problem.
🔧 Contact Us Today!
