Water Heater Maintenance: Keep Your Hot Water Running Smoothly

Ever run out of hot water in the middle of a shower? Most of the time it’s not a broken unit, just a lack of care. A few easy chores can stop leaks, cut your bill, and make the heater last longer.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Water heaters sit in the dark, heating the same water day after day. Over time sediment settles at the bottom, the anode rod corrodes, and parts wear out. Those problems make the heater work harder, raise energy costs, and can cause leaks that damage floors.

Spotting early signs saves you from a sudden cold shower. Look for rumbling noises, slow heating, rusty water, or water pooling near the tank. If you notice any of these, it’s time to act.

Step‑by‑Step Maintenance Checklist

1. Turn off power or gas. For electric heaters, switch off the breaker. For gas models, shut the gas valve. Safety first.

2. Drain the tank. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom and run it to a floor drain. Open the valve and let the water flow out. This flushes out sediment that reduces efficiency.

3. Check the anode rod. The rod attracts corrosion, protecting the tank. Unscrew it from the top, pull it out, and look for heavy wear. If it’s more than half rusted, replace it. New rods are cheap and add years to the heater’s life.

4. Inspect the pressure‑relief valve. Lift the test lever briefly; water should flow out and stop when released. If it sticks or leaks, replace it right away.

5. Clean the burner (gas models). Remove any dust from the burner and pilot assembly. A clean burner burns more evenly and reduces carbon buildup.

6. Restore water and power. Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the water supply back on. Fill the tank, then restore electricity or gas. Run a hot tap for a few minutes to purge air.

Doing this once a year is enough for most homes, but if you have hard water, consider a bi‑annual flush.

When you’re not comfortable with any step, call a local pro. A quick service call can catch hidden issues before they become expensive repairs.

Regular maintenance isn’t a chore; it’s a simple habit that keeps your showers warm, your bills low, and your home safe. Stick to the checklist, and you’ll wonder why you ever ignored it.