Everything You Need to Know About Water Heater Maintenance Aug 23, 2025

Taking care of your water heater is essential for ensuring its longevity and efficiency. Regular maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your water heater functioning properly. For homeowners looking to extend the lifespan of their appliance and reduce unnecessary costs, understanding water heater maintenance is crucial. At Southern Plumbing Services, we prioritize helping our customers maintain their plumbing efficiently, which includes understanding the intricacies of water heater upkeep.

Water heaters are often the unsung heroes in homes, providing hot water for showers, cooking, and cleaning. But like any other appliance, they require regular maintenance to continue working optimally. One of the key maintenance tasks is inspecting and adjusting the thermostat. A water heater’s thermostat is responsible for controlling the temperature of the water, and setting it at an appropriate level can prevent overheating and energy wastage. Ideally, setting it around 120 degrees Fahrenheit ensures ample hot water while reducing the risk of scalding and energy overuse.

Another vital component of water heater maintenance is checking the pressure relief valve. This safety device is critical for preventing excess pressure from building up inside the tank. To check this, carefully lift the pressure release valve lever to let out some water, which should expel into a discharge tube. If water does not come out or the valve shows signs of leaking, it might need replacing, which is a task best left to professionals like those at Southern Plumbing Services.

Sediment build-up is a common issue in water heaters, due to minerals in the water that settle at the bottom of the tank over time, reducing efficiency and heating capacity. Flushing your water heater annually can combat this problem. By draining a quarter of the tank periodically, you can minimize sediment accumulation. If this task seems daunting, our skilled technicians at Southern Plumbing Services are just a call away to help with a thorough flush.

Insulating your water heater tank is another effective maintenance tip that many homeowners overlook. By adding insulation, you can significantly decrease standby heat losses, lowering your water heating costs by up to 16% annually. Insulating the pipes leading from your unit can also prevent heat loss as water travels to its destination. Insulation materials are accessible at hardware stores, making this a manageable DIY task for many homeowners.

Monitoring and replacing the anode rod is also crucial for water heater maintenance. This component prevents the tank from rusting but over time, it wears out and needs replacing. Checking the anode rod at least every two to three years can save your tank from premature corrosion.

Finally, it is beneficial to schedule regular professional inspections. While many aspects of water heater maintenance can be handled by homeowners, professional plumbers can offer a more thorough checkup, identifying and addressing potential issues that may not be apparent.

In conclusion, water heater maintenance is a blend of regular DIY tasks and professional inspections. By adhering to these practices, you can extend the lifespan of your water heater, improve its efficiency, and reduce energy costs. At Southern Plumbing Services, our dedicated team is always ready to assist with maintenance and answer any questions our clients may have. Regular upkeep not only ensures consistent hot water but also gives peace of mind knowing that your appliance is performing at its best.