A reliable hot water heater is essential to any home, providing consistent hot water for daily needs like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. However, without regular maintenance, your water heater can become less effective, consume more energy, or even fail unexpectedly.
By following a preventative maintenance routine, you can help extend the life of your water heater, reduce the chances of costly repairs, and maintain its performance year-round. This checklist will guide you through the steps to keep your water heater in optimal condition, covering both tank and tankless systems.
Tank Water Heater Preventative Maintenance Checklist
- Flush the Tank: Drain the tank periodically to remove sediment, which reduces capacity and efficiency.
- Inspect the Anode Rod: Check the anode rod annually to prevent rust. Replace it if worn or heavily coated with calcium.
- Test the Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve: Lift the lever to release water and ensure the valve operates properly. If it malfunctions, replace it.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect the tank and surrounding pipes for leaks, which could indicate cracks or loose connections.
- Inspect the Heating Elements (Electric Models): Look for wear or scaling on the heating elements and replace them if necessary.
- Insulate the Tank and Pipes: Add or replace insulation to minimize heat loss and save energy.
- Adjust the Thermostat: Set the thermostat to 120°F to avoid scalding and reduce energy consumption.
Tankless Water Heater Preventative Maintenance Checklist
- Descale the Heat Exchanger: Use a manufacturer-approved descaling solution annually to remove mineral deposits that can clog the heat exchanger.
- Clean the Water Filter: Remove and clean the filter regularly to maintain proper water flow and protect the system.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect water and gas connections for leaks or damage.
- Check Gas Connections and Pilot Light (Gas Models): Verify that the gas connections are secure and that the pilot light burns steadily.
- Inspect the Unit Exterior: Look for signs of wear, dirt buildup, or damage to the casing and vents.
- Adjust the Thermostat: Set the thermostat to 120°F for consistent hot water and energy efficiency.
Safety Precautions to Follow During Water Heater Maintenance
- Turn Off Power Supply: Always switch off the power to the water heater. For electric models, turn off the breaker. For gas models, set the thermostat to “pilot” mode.
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Close the valve that supplies water to the heater to prevent unexpected leaks.
- Allow the Heater to Cool: To avoid burns, wait for the water inside the tank to cool down before beginning any maintenance tasks.
- Use Proper Tools: Ensure you have the correct tools and equipment for the maintenance tasks to avoid damaging components.
- Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves and safety glasses to protect against hot surfaces, sharp edges, and splashing water.
- Check for Gas Leaks (Gas Models): Gas-powered models, whether tank or tankless, require attention to potential gas leaks during maintenance. If you smell gas, stop immediately, ventilate the area, and contact a professional technician.
- Inspect Pressure Levels in Tank Water Heaters: During maintenance, avoid releasing too much pressure from the system to prevent accidental damage.
- Handle Chemicals Carefully: If descaling or cleaning solutions are needed, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use them in a well-ventilated area.
- Secure Components After Maintenance: Ensure all valves, panels, and connections are properly secured before restoring power and water supply.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Maintenance Service
Even with regular upkeep, certain issues may arise that require the expertise of a professional. Here are key signs indicating it’s time to call for professional water heater maintenance:
- Inconsistent Water Temperature: Fluctuations in water temperature or prolonged delays in heating water can indicate issues with heating elements, burners, or thermostats.
- Unusual Noises: Rumbling, banging, or popping sounds from tank water heaters may point to sediment buildup. In tankless models, whistling or hissing could indicate restricted water flow or scaling.
- Visible Leaks: Puddles of water around the unit, dripping connections, or moisture on the exterior of the water heater suggest cracks, loose components, or internal damage.
- Discolored or Foul-Smelling Water: Rusty or murky water may indicate corrosion inside the tank. A rotten egg smell could be due to bacteria buildup in the tank or issues with the anode rod.
- Low Water Pressure: Reduced water flow can result from clogged pipes, sediment buildup in the tank, or a dirty water filter in tankless models.
- Higher Energy Bills: A sudden spike in energy costs could signal that your water heater struggles to heat water efficiently due to worn components or buildup.
- Frequent Pilot Light Issues (Gas Models): If the pilot light keeps going out, there could be problems with the thermocouple, gas supply, or burner assembly.
- Age of the Water Heater: Water heaters nearing the end of their lifespan (8–12 years for tank models and 15–20 years for tankless models) may require frequent repairs or replacement.
How Often Should I Schedule Water Heater Maintenance?
Water heater maintenance should typically be performed once a year to keep the system running effectively and avoid potential issues.
Descaling and other maintenance tasks may be more frequent for homes in areas with hard water—ideally, every six months for tankless models.
Schedule Your Water Heater Maintenance with Direct Home Services
Whether you have a tank or tankless model, following a preventative maintenance routine ensures consistent performance and extends the life of your system. For professional water heater maintenance or to address any concerns, trust the team at Direct Home Services.
Call 860-339-6001 to schedule your water heater maintenance in Connecticut and keep your system running smoothly year-round.
