It’s important to keep your water heater in good shape to avoid costly repairs and have continuous hot water in your home. While some maintenance tasks are simple enough to handle by yourself, others require a professional’s expertise to prevent damage, inefficiency or even safety hazards.
Knowing what you can DIY and what to leave to the pros can save you time and money. Here is some information about the importance of water heater maintenance. We’ll discuss one task you can do by yourself and four that you need a professional plumber to complete.
Why Regular Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Regular water heater maintenance helps the appliance run more efficiently and safely while lasting longer. When should you replace a water heater? On average, this appliance might last from 10 to 15 years or more, depending on the type. However, its lifespan can shorten significantly without proper maintenance.
Over time, sediment buildup, worn-out components and unnoticed leaks can reduce your heater’s performance and lead to higher energy bills. A poorly maintained water heater has to work harder to heat water and consumes more electricity or gas. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear, shorten your water heater’s lifespan, and require costly repairs sooner than you expect.
Proper maintenance also helps prevent potentially dangerous situations. Gas water heaters, for example, require periodic inspections to ensure there are no leaks or ventilation issues that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or fire hazards. Electric models occasionally need their heating elements and wiring connections checked to avoid electrical failures. A neglected water heater can also develop pressure issues, increasing the risk of leaks or tank failure.
The One Task You Can Safely Do Yourself
Most homeowners can safely flush their water heater tanks themselves. Over time, sediment and mineral deposits accumulate at the bottom of the tank, which can lower efficiency and damage the heating elements or tank lining. Flushing the tank removes these deposits. To flush your water heater, turn off the power or gas supply and turn off the inlet valve at the top of the water heater to prevent the tank from trying to refill itself as you drain it.
Next, connect a garden hose to the drain valve, and let the water run out until it clears. Once the sediment is flushed, close the drain valve then turn on the inlet valve so the tank can refill. After the tank has filled, turn the power back on. It’s important that you do not turn the power on to electric water heaters before the tank refills or you risk burning out a heating element.
You should keep the following precautions in mind. The water draining from the tank is extremely hot, so you need to wear protective gloves and direct the hose safely away from people and pets. Excessive sediment buildup may clog the drain valve and require professional assistance to fix the water heater. Flush your tank every six to 12 months to maintain its efficiency and avoid repairs.
4 Water Heater Tasks Best Left to the Pros
Attempting complex repairs without the right skills can lead to safety hazards and costly damage. Here are key water heater maintenance tasks that you need to leave to the pros.
1. Gas Line Checks
If you have a gas water heater, inspecting and maintaining the gas line is critical for safety and efficiency. Gas leaks are dangerous and can cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. A licensed technician has the right tools to test for leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and confirm that the gas pressure is set correctly.
2. Anode Rod Replacement
The anode rod prevents corrosion inside your water heater tank by attracting minerals that would otherwise rust the lining. Over time, this rod depletes and needs replacement. Removing and replacing an anode rod requires specific tools and expertise. Improper installation can cause leaks or damage the tank’s interior.
3. Thermostat Adjustments
Adjusting your water heater’s thermostat may seem simple, but setting it too high can increase the risk of scalding. Setting it too low can promote bacterial growth. Some models also have complex digital control systems that require professional calibration. A technician can ensure the thermostat is properly adjusted.
4. Electrical Component Repairs
Electric water heaters rely on heating elements, wiring and circuit breakers that should only be handled by licensed professionals. Improper electrical component repairs can lead to short circuits, heater failure or fire hazards. A pro can diagnose and fix electrical issues safely and efficiently.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Attention
A well-maintained water heater should provide consistently hot water without issues. Over time, wear and tear can lead to performance problems. If you notice changes in your water temperature, strange noises, or higher energy bills, it may be time for maintenance or repairs. Addressing small issues early can prevent costly breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your unit.
Here are some key signs that your water heater needs attention:
- Inconsistent water temperature – Fluctuating temperatures or water that never gets hot enough may indicate a failing heating element, thermostat issues, or excessive sediment buildup.
- Strange noises – Popping, rumbling or banging sounds often mean sediment has piled up or hardened at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing inefficiency and even overheating.
- Discolored or rusty water – Brown or reddish water coming from your taps could be a sign of internal corrosion, possibly due to a failing anode rod or tank deterioration.
- Leaks around the unit – Any visible water pooling around the heater may indicate a faulty pressure relief valve, loose connection, or failing tank.
- Unpleasant odors – A rotten egg smell in your hot water could signal bacterial growth inside the tank, especially if your water comes from a well.
- Higher energy bills – If your water heater is working harder than usual, it will consume more energy, leading to an unexplained increase in your utility costs.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection. A plumber can inspect your water heater, fix the issues, and help you understand when it’s time for a new one.
How Often Should You Schedule Professional Maintenance?
To keep your water heater running efficiently and safely, it’s recommended to schedule professional maintenance once a year. An annual inspection allows a technician to check for potential issues such as sediment buildup, corrosion, or faulty components before they lead to costly repairs or system failure. Professionals can also flush the tank thoroughly, test the pressure relief valve, inspect the anode rod, and ensure gas or electrical connections are secure.
Regular water heater maintenance keeps your appliance working more efficiently and extends its useful lifespan. While flushing the tank is a simple DIY task that can help prevent sediment buildup and maintain performance, more complex repairs are best left to the pros. Annual professional inspections can catch potential issues early, saving you from costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. A little maintenance goes a long way in preserving your water heater’s efficiency and ensuring a reliable supply of hot water in your home.
