Here’s Why Your Water Heater Needs Annual Maintenance

Water heaters are easy to overlook, at least until you end up getting a cold shower. Keeping an eye on your water heater can ensure you don’t end up with an unpleasant morning. Annual maintenance can catch issues early and help your water heater last longer. The question is, how often does your water heater need maintenance?

Maintenance Frequency

A water heater needs service at least every 12 months. Some tasks need us to do them more often as well. Yearly maintenance catches corrosion or damaged valves before they become a major headache. You will need to flush the tank of sediment at least once a year. But you may need to flush the heater more often, particularly if you have hard water. Checking for leaks in water and gas lines once a month is also a good idea that you can handle yourself.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Maintenance

All water heaters need maintenance, including tankless water heaters. Without maintenance, your tank model may struggle to last 8 to 12 years. It might need repairs or even face early replacement. The same goes for a tankless water heater reaching its 20-year lifespan. Here are the signs that your water heater may be due for a check-up by a plumber.

• Humming or strange sounds from the heater
• Sediment coming out of your faucet
• Lukewarm water or quickly running out of hot water
• Loss of water pressure when you turn up the temperature
• High energy bills

Maintenance Tasks for Tank and Tankless Water Heaters

Yearly maintenance tasks depend on your water heater type. All water heaters need to have all the sediment cleaned out at least yearly. Check the temperature-pressure relief valve on tank water heaters. This safety feature must work. We will check every part of the system. This way, your water heater will keep your water hot all year.

Tankless water heaters need regular maintenance that tank models don’t require. Descale the system once a year. This helps remove mineral buildup, especially if you have hard water. Check the inlet filter and venting system. This prevents blockages. It helps the unit run smoothly and last longer.

Rely on Plumbers for Your Water Heater Maintenance

A water heater is an important amenity for a home. Preventive maintenance is a good habit to have. But it is best to leave it to a plumber. Plumbers know what to look for. Plumbers have the right tools for water heater maintenance and repairs. Trust the local Panama City, FL plumbing experts at Ridge AC for all your water heater needs.