Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It provides hot water for showers, dishes, laundry, and more, making it essential for your daily comfort. But like any other appliance, your water heater requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs efficiently and lasts as long as possible. At Dyer Demand Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in San Jose and Santa Clara County keep their water heaters in top shape. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to properly maintain your water heater, so you can avoid costly repairs and extend its lifespan.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why water heater maintenance is so important. Regular maintenance can:
- Improve Efficiency: A well-maintained water heater uses less energy, which can lower your utility bills.
- Extend Lifespan: Proper care can help your water heater last 10–15 years or more.
- Prevent Costly Repairs: Catching small issues early can prevent major breakdowns.
- Ensure Safety: Regular maintenance reduces the risk of leaks, bursts, or other hazards.
Now that you know why it’s important, let’s get into the specifics of how to maintain your water heater.
Step 1: Check the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature on your water heater. It releases excess pressure to prevent the tank from overheating or bursting. Testing this valve regularly is essential to ensure it’s working properly.
How to Test the Pressure Relief Valve
- Turn off the power to the water heater (for electric models) or set the gas control valve to “pilot” (for gas models).
- Place a bucket under the discharge pipe connected to the valve.
- Lift the valve’s lever for a few seconds to release some water.
- If water flows freely and stops when you release the lever, the valve is working. If not, it may need to be replaced.
If you’re unsure about this step, don’t hesitate to call Dyer Demand Plumbing at 408-826-7257 for professional assistance.
Step 2: Drain and Flush the Tank
Over time, sediment and minerals can build up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup can reduce efficiency, cause strange noises, and even damage the tank. Draining and flushing the tank once a year can help prevent these issues.
How to Drain and Flush the Tank
- Turn off the power or gas supply to the water heater.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and place the other end in a safe drainage area.
- Open the drain valve and let the water flow out until it runs clear. This may take 10–15 minutes.
- Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the water supply back on to refill the tank.
- Once the tank is full, restore power or relight the pilot light.
Step 3: Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a metal rod inside your water heater that attracts corrosive elements to protect the tank from rust. Over time, the rod can wear out and need replacement. Checking it annually can help you avoid costly tank repairs.
How to Inspect the Anode Rod
- Turn off the power or gas supply to the water heater.
- Locate the anode rod on top of the tank (it looks like a large hex head bolt).
- Use a wrench to remove the rod and inspect it. If it’s heavily corroded or less than ½ inch thick, it’s time to replace it.
- Install a new anode rod and tighten it securely.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, our team at Dyer Demand Plumbing can handle it for you.
Step 4: Adjust the Temperature
Setting your water heater to the right temperature can save energy and prevent scalding. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a temperature setting of 120°F for most households.
How to Adjust the Temperature
- For electric water heaters, use a screwdriver to adjust the thermostat on the side of the tank.
- For gas water heaters, turn the dial on the gas control valve.
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature at a faucet to ensure it’s set correctly.
Step 5: Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Insulating your water heater tank and pipes can improve efficiency and reduce heat loss. This is especially helpful in colder climates or for older water heaters.
How to Insulate Your Water Heater
- Purchase an insulating blanket designed for water heaters.
- Wrap the blanket around the tank, avoiding the controls and vents.
- Use foam pipe insulation to cover the hot water pipes.
Step 6: Check for Leaks and Corrosion
Regularly inspecting your water heater for leaks or signs of corrosion can help you catch problems early. Look for water pooling around the base of the tank, rust on the tank or pipes, or any unusual noises.
What to Do If You Find a Leak
If you notice a leak or corrosion, it’s important to address it immediately. Small leaks can often be repaired, but larger issues may require replacing the water heater. Contact Dyer Demand Plumbing at 408-826-7257 for expert advice and service.
Step 7: Schedule Professional Maintenance
While many maintenance tasks can be done yourself, it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber inspect your water heater annually. A professional can:
- Perform a thorough inspection.
- Test the pressure relief valve and other components.
- Identify potential issues before they become major problems.
At Dyer Demand Plumbing, we offer comprehensive water heater maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention
Even with regular maintenance, water heaters can develop issues over time. Here are some signs that your water heater may need professional attention:
- No Hot Water: If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, it could be a sign of a faulty heating element or gas supply issue.
- Strange Noises: Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds may indicate sediment buildup.
- Discolored Water: Rusty or cloudy water could mean your tank is corroding.
- Leaks: Water pooling around the base of the tank is a clear sign of a problem.
- Age: If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Why Choose Dyer Demand Plumbing for Water Heater Maintenance?
At Dyer Demand Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners in San Jose and Santa Clara County keep their water heaters in top condition. Here’s why you can trust us:
- Licensed and Insured: Our team is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind.
- Experienced Professionals: We have years of experience servicing all types of water heaters.
- Transparent Pricing: We offer fair, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
- 24/7 Emergency Service: We’re here when you need us, day or night.
Contact Us Today
Regular water heater maintenance is key to ensuring your system runs efficiently and lasts for years to come. If you need help maintaining your water heater or have any questions, don’t hesitate to call Dyer Demand Plumbing at 408-826-7257. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to help with all your water heater needs. Let us take the guesswork out of maintenance so you can enjoy reliable hot water year-round!