What Upkeep Do Water Heaters Need?

Do-it-yourself maintenance and smart settings can make a big difference.

The average storage tank water heater can operate in relatively good condition for about 8 to 12 years before needing to be replaced. The most common cause of water heater failure is tank corrosion, but there are some simple maintenance steps you can take to help your unit run more efficiently and last longer.

TF Complete Heating & Cooling is here to help if you need assistance with water heater service or replacement. But here is a good starting point for maintaining your hot water system yourself.

Flush Your Water Heater Tank Annually

Flushing your water heater every year is essential for removing sediment buildup, which can clog the system and lead to tank corrosion. While you should always consult your water heater’s manual for specific instructions, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Switch your water heater to “Off” or “Pilot” mode.
2. Shut off the cold water supply valve to the water heater.
3. Attach a hose to the tank’s drain valve, ensuring the other end is directed to a safe drainage area, such as a utility sink, floor drain or the outdoors.
4. Open a hot water faucet in your home to prevent a vacuum from forming as the tank drains.
5. Open the drain valve on the water heater to start draining the hot water through the hose.
6. Once the tank is completely drained, turn the cold water supply valve back on to flush out any remaining sediment.
7. Close the drain valve, detach the hose, and allow the tank to fully refill.
8. Finally, restore your water heater to its original operating setting.

This simple DIY maintenance helps extend the life of your water heater and ensures it continues operating efficiently.

Lower Fuel Consumption with Temperature Settings

Optimize your water heater settings to reduce energy use and extend the lifespan of your equipment, all without compromising comfort. Here are two simple, effective tips:

• Set the Daily Temperature to 120°F. Most water heaters come preset at 140°F, but lowering it to 120°F can save energy, minimize the risk of scalding and still effectively eliminate bacteria.
• Activate Vacation Mode. Heading out of town? Use your water heater’s vacation mode or adjust it to the lowest setting to save energy while you’re away.

Regularly Bring in the HVAC Pros

Just like your heating and cooling systems, your water heater needs regular maintenance to perform well and last longer. At TF Complete Heating & Cooling, our experts inspect, calibrate and clean your home’s hot water system. Regular upkeep means longer showers, lower energy bills and a reliable water heater for years to come.

Our Team is Here for All Your Water Heater Needs

You can always reach out to the TF Complete Heating & Cooling team if you need a water heater repair or routine service. However, it’s also a good idea to keep your eyes open for signs your unit may fail soon:

• Strange noises such as rumbling or banging
• Rusty or discolored water coming from your hot water taps
• Water pooling around the base of your tank
• Unexplained increases in energy usage

Don’t wait for your water heater to fail before considering a replacement. A sudden breakdown can cause expensive property damage and leave you without hot water for days. Our team can assess your system and help you upgrade to a new energy-efficient water heater if needed, ensuring your household always has hot water.

Trust TF Complete Heating & Cooling for all your water heating needs in Bristol, Middlesex and Norfolk counties — contact us today to schedule a service appointment!