Water Heater Maintenance Checklist Every Homeowner Should Know

Ever stepped into the shower and got hit with freezing water when you were expecting a warm wake-up? Or maybe you walked past your water heater and noticed a weird puddle you swear wasn’t there yesterday. These things always seem to happen at the worst possible time.

Most folks only think about their water heater when it’s already acting up. By then, you’re either out of hot water or you’re staring at a mess you wish you’d caught sooner. The truth is, a little attention once in a while saves a ton of hassle. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s what we actually look for on a typical maintenance visit.

Start With the Temperature Setting

First, check what temperature your heater’s set at. If you never adjusted it, odds are it’s too high. Not only does that run up your bill, but it’ll wear the thing out faster and might even scald someone. Aim for 120 degrees. That’s hot enough for showers and dishes, but not so hot you’re wasting money or risking burns. If you can’t find the dial or you’re not sure how to check, just ask next time you have a plumber out. Most folks don’t realize this is even adjustable.

Give the Pressure Valve a Quick Test

There’s a little valve on the side or top of most tanks – the pressure relief valve. Think of it as the safety net. If it sticks, that’s a problem. Once a year, flip the lever up for a second, then let it snap back. You should hear some water move or see it come out of the pipe. If you don’t, or if the valve won’t close, it’s time for a replacement. No shame in calling for help here. If that valve goes bad, you want to know before there’s an issue.

Get Rid of the Gunk in the Tank

Every water heater gets a buildup inside. Hard water makes it worse. Over time, that sediment settles at the bottom and makes the heater work way harder. Sometimes you’ll even hear it popping or rumbling. Once a year, drain a few gallons out. Connect a hose to the bottom valve, aim it into a bucket or outside, and open the valve until it runs clear. If you’ve never done it, or you see a ton of rust, just call a plumber to flush it out properly. It’s not worth wrecking your tank trying to wing it.

Look for Drips, Rust, or Weird Wet Spots

Give your heater a quick scan, nothing technical, just your own eyes. Any sign of water or rust is a red flag. A drip under the tank, a rusty patch, or even a wet connection on the pipes can turn into a bigger problem in a hurry. If you spot something, deal with it now, not after your tank gives out in the middle of the night.

Don’t Tune Out Odd Noises

If your heater used to be quiet and now it sounds like it’s boiling rocks, pay attention. Those noises are usually a sign of a buildup inside or parts wearing out. Sometimes a good flush will quiet things down, sometimes you’ll need a plumber to take a look. Don’t just ignore it and hope for the best. Things usually get worse, not better.

The Anode Rod: The One Thing Most People Miss

Most people have never even heard of the anode rod, but it’s a big deal. It’s inside the tank and keeps the metal from rusting out. After a few years, it wears away. If nobody’s checked it, your tank could be quietly rusting through from the inside. When you get a plumber out for maintenance, have them look at the rod. Swapping it out is way cheaper than replacing a rusted tank.

Trust Your Gut on Hot Water

If your water starts running out faster than usual, smells funny, or comes out rusty, don’t just live with it. Sometimes it’s a small fix, like changing a heating element or flushing the tank. Sometimes it’s the first sign of something bigger. Either way, you’re better off calling a pro than waiting for a full breakdown.

When to Call for Help

If you want to avoid surprise cold showers and last-minute water heater repairs, don’t skip the simple stuff. And if you’d rather not bother with it yourself, or something just doesn’t feel right, that’s what we’re here for. Call Acacias Plumbing for maintenance, repairs, or just honest advice. We’ll keep your water heater and your mornings running smoothly.