Your water heater works quietly behind the scenes, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing every day. It’s one of the most essential appliances in your home, yet it’s often one of the most overlooked. Many homeowners don’t think about their water heater until it stops working—and by then, repairs or replacements can be costly.

With proper care and regular maintenance, your water heater can last much longer and operate more efficiently. Whether you have a traditional tank-style system or a modern tankless model, routine attention keeps it running smoothly, reduces energy use, and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.

In this article, we’ll explain how to maintain your water heater, extend its lifespan, and know when to call professionals like Advanced Heat, AC, & Plumbing for expert service.

Why water heater maintenance matters

A well-maintained water heater not only lasts longer but also operates more efficiently and safely. Neglecting routine service can lead to sediment buildup, corrosion, leaks, and even water damage.

The benefits of regular maintenance

  1. Longer lifespan: Proper maintenance can extend the life of your unit by several years.
  2. Lower energy bills: A clean, efficient heater uses less energy to heat water.
  3. Consistent performance: Regular care ensures steady water temperature and pressure.
  4. Fewer repairs: Preventative maintenance helps catch small issues before they become expensive problems.
  5. Better water quality: Cleaning and flushing reduce sediment and mineral buildup that can discolor or affect the taste of your water.

Regular maintenance gives you peace of mind knowing your system is safe, reliable, and performing at its best.

How long should a water heater last?

On average, a traditional tank-style water heater lasts between 8 and 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or longer with proper care.

However, these lifespans are not guaranteed. The actual longevity depends on factors such as:

  • Water quality: Hard water causes scale buildup that can reduce efficiency.
  • Maintenance frequency: Units that are flushed and inspected annually last much longer.
  • Installation quality: Proper setup ensures optimal performance and fewer issues.
  • Usage habits: Heavy daily use wears components faster than light or moderate usage.

The good news is that most problems are preventable with consistent maintenance and occasional professional service.

Step-by-step guide to maintaining your water heater

Step 1: Inspect your water heater regularly

Start by visually inspecting your system every few months. Look for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or rust on the tank and plumbing connections.

Check the area around the heater for moisture, as even small drips can lead to bigger issues over time. Listen for unusual noises such as popping or rumbling, which may indicate sediment buildup inside the tank.

If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule a professional inspection through Advanced Heat, AC, & Plumbing before the issue escalates.

Step 2: Flush the tank annually

Over time, minerals and sediment settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and increasing wear. Flushing your water heater once a year removes these deposits.

How to flush your water heater:

  1. Turn off the power (for electric units) or gas supply (for gas units).
  2. Shut off the cold-water supply valve.
  3. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
  4. Run the hose to a safe drainage area.
  5. Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow until it runs clear.
  6. Close the valve, refill the tank, and restore power or gas.

Flushing keeps the heating element clean, improves efficiency, and helps prevent tank corrosion.

If you have hard water, consider flushing your unit every six months instead of annually.

Step 3: Check the anode rod

The anode rod is a crucial component that prevents rust inside your tank. Made of magnesium or aluminum, it attracts corrosive minerals in the water, protecting the steel lining of your heater.

How to inspect it:

  • Turn off the power and water supply.
  • Locate and unscrew the anode rod from the top of the tank.
  • Replace it if it’s heavily corroded or less than ½ inch thick.

You should check the anode rod every 2–3 years, or annually if you have hard water. Replacing it when necessary can extend your water heater’s life by several years.

Step 4: Test the pressure relief valve

The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety feature that prevents your tank from over-pressurizing. Testing it regularly ensures your system operates safely.

To test the valve:

  1. Place a bucket under the discharge pipe.
  2. Lift the valve’s lever slightly until water flows out.
  3. Release it to close the valve.

If water continues leaking after the test, the valve may need replacement. This simple test prevents potential tank ruptures and ensures your water heater remains safe.

Step 5: Adjust the thermostat

Your water heater’s thermostat should be set to 120°F for most homes. This temperature is hot enough to meet daily needs while preventing scalding and minimizing energy use.

Higher temperatures cause excess wear on the heating element and increase utility costs. If your water heater’s thermostat is not visible, consult your owner’s manual or a professional plumber for guidance.

Installing a smart thermostat or control panel can also help regulate temperature more precisely and improve efficiency.

Step 6: Insulate your water heater and pipes

Insulating your water heater and the first few feet of nearby hot water pipes helps maintain heat, reducing energy loss.

You can purchase pre-cut insulation blankets or sleeves at most home improvement stores. Insulation is particularly useful during Knoxville’s colder months when heat loss is more significant.

For even greater efficiency, ask about professional preventive maintenance services that include insulation and system optimization.

Step 7: Watch for leaks and unusual water

Small leaks or discolored water can signal internal corrosion, a failing anode rod, or pressure issues.

What to look for:

  • Rusty or brown water: May indicate internal corrosion.
  • Moisture or puddles: Could signal a leaking valve or seal.
  • Sulfur smell: Often caused by bacteria reacting with the anode rod.

If you notice any of these issues, contact Advanced Heat, AC, & Plumbing for immediate diagnosis and repair. Early detection can often save you from costly replacements.

How to maintain tankless water heaters

Tankless water heaters require less maintenance than traditional tanks, but they still benefit from regular care to stay efficient.

Key maintenance steps for tankless systems

  1. Descale the unit: Hard water minerals can build up in the heat exchanger. Descaling every 6–12 months removes these deposits.
  2. Clean the air and water filters: Dust or sediment can reduce performance.
  3. Inspect the venting system: Make sure there are no blockages or leaks.
  4. Check the system error codes: Many models display error codes that help identify maintenance needs.

A professional tankless water heater service ensures the system runs efficiently and safely.

Professional maintenance: Why it’s worth it

While many maintenance steps can be done yourself, scheduling professional service once a year ensures every component is working correctly.

What professionals check during a tune-up

  • Tank flushing and sediment removal
  • Anode rod and T&P valve inspection
  • Gas or electrical connection safety
  • Thermostat calibration
  • Leak detection and corrosion checks

Technicians from Advanced Heat, AC, & Plumbing provide comprehensive water heater maintenance that maximizes efficiency and lifespan. They can also recommend upgrades or adjustments tailored to your home’s water quality and usage.

Water quality and its impact on your water heater

Knoxville and East Tennessee are known for varying water hardness levels. Hard water can cause mineral buildup that shortens your heater’s lifespan and reduces efficiency.

The solution

A professional water analysis and treatment service can determine your home’s water quality and recommend softeners or filtration systems that protect your appliances.

Cleaner water not only improves taste and health but also helps your water heater run more efficiently for years to come.

When maintenance is not enough: Knowing when to replace

Even with the best care, water heaters eventually reach the end of their lifespan. Recognizing when replacement is more cost-effective than repair prevents wasted money and potential water damage.

Signs it’s time to replace

  • Your water heater is more than 10–12 years old (tank models)
  • You experience frequent breakdowns or leaks
  • Rust is visible on the tank or fittings
  • Hot water runs out faster than usual
  • Energy bills keep rising despite maintenance

In these cases, upgrading to a tankless water heater may be the best long-term solution. It provides on-demand heating, lower energy costs, and extended durability.

FAQs: Water Heater Maintenance

1. How often should I flush my water heater?

You should flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment. Homes with hard water may need it every 6 months.

2. Why is my water heater making noise?

Noises like popping or rumbling often indicate sediment buildup inside the tank. Flushing usually resolves the issue.

3. Can I maintain my water heater myself?

Basic tasks like checking the thermostat, testing the T&P valve, and draining the tank can be done by homeowners. However, annual professional maintenance is highly recommended.

4. How do I know if my anode rod needs replacing?

If it’s less than ½ inch thick or heavily corroded, it should be replaced. This typically occurs every 2–3 years.

5. Is insulating my water heater worth it?

Yes. Insulation reduces heat loss and energy costs, especially in cold climates or unheated spaces.

6. What causes my hot water to smell bad?

A sulfur or rotten-egg odor is often caused by bacteria inside the tank. Flushing and disinfecting the system usually fixes it.

7. How long does professional maintenance take?

A full water heater service typically takes 60–90 minutes, depending on the unit type and condition.

8. Can hard water damage my water heater?

Yes. Minerals in hard water cause scale buildup, reducing efficiency and lifespan. A water softener or filtration system can prevent this.

9. How do I prevent my tankless water heater from scaling?

Flush or descale your tankless unit every 6–12 months to remove mineral buildup.

10. Should I turn off my water heater when I go on vacation?

If you’ll be gone for more than a week, it’s smart to turn it off or set it to vacation mode to save energy and prevent issues.

Conclusion

Regular water heater maintenance is one of the smartest and most affordable ways to extend the life of your system. By flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, testing safety valves, and scheduling annual inspections, you can prevent costly repairs and enjoy reliable hot water year-round.

Whether you have a traditional or tankless system, trust Advanced Heat, AC, & Plumbing for expert care. Their licensed technicians provide full-service maintenance, water analysis, and professional repairs designed to keep your home efficient and comfortable.

Take a proactive approach to your home’s hot water system today. With a little attention and expert support, your water heater can deliver years of dependable performance and savings.