Water Heater Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

A water heater is one of those household essentials you don’t think about until something goes wrong. Whether you’re stepping into a hot shower or running a load of laundry, your water heater is hard at work behind the scenes. With a little regular care, you can protect the lifespan of your system, improve efficiency, and avoid costly breakdowns.

Here’s a quick, practical water maintenance checklist to help you keep your system in top shape.

Inspect for Leaks or Corrosion

Start with a visual inspection. Look around the base of the tank and along the connections for any signs of water pooling, corrosion, or rust. Even small leaks can point to a bigger issue and should be addressed promptly to prevent water damage.

Flush the Tank Annually

Over time, sediment builds up inside your water heater. That sediment not only reduces your heater’s efficiency but can shorten its lifespan. Flushing the tank once a year clears out this sediment. While it’s possible to drain and flush a water heater yourself, many homeowners prefer to have a professional plumber handle the job for peace of mind.

Check the Anode Rod Every 1-3 Years

The anode rod is a small but vital part of your water heater. It prevents rust by attracting corrosion to itself rather than the walls of your tank. Over time, the rod wears down and needs to be replaced. A quick inspection every one to three years ensures your water heater tank stays protected.

Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve prevents the tank from building up too much pressure, making it a critical safety feature. To test it, carefully lift the valve’s lever to make sure water flows out and stops once the lever is released. If it doesn’t work properly, connect with our team for water heater maintenance services.

Adjust the Thermostat

By default, many water heaters are set to 140°F, a scalding temperature that can be dangerous, especially in homes with young children or elderly family members. Lowering the thermostat just 20 degrees, down to 120°F, can reduce the risk of scalding and save energy.

Look for Signs of Trouble

Hearing unusual noises, like banging, rumbling, or hissing? These may indicate sediment buildup or failing parts. Dealing with weak hot water, inconsistent temperatures, or discolored water? These warning signs shouldn’t be ignored either, as they could indicate your system is about to fail.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

A licensed plumber can spot issues before they become emergencies, clean and adjust components, and give you peace of mind that your water heater is running smoothly. At Stephens, we’ve been helping families and businesses since 1986, offering honest, friendly, and professional water heater preventative maintenance you can count on. Experience the Stephens difference for yourself–book an appointment today!

Keep Your Water Heater Running Strong

Standard, electric, and tankless water heater maintenance can prevent breakdowns, protect your home, save money on energy bills, and ensure your family always has the hot water they need. If you’re due for service or suspect something isn’t quite right, we’re here to help. Give us a call to keep your system running at its best.