Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, yet it’s often overlooked. Day after day it delivers hot showers, clean dishes, sanitized laundry, and warm water for countless tasks, all without much thought from the home’s residents. But like any system that works nonstop, your water heater needs regular care to keep performing efficiently and reliably. With the right maintenance habits, you can extend its lifespan, avoid surprise repairs, and get the most value out of your investment.
At McDaniel Service, Inc., we’re proud to offer honest and reliable HVAC and plumbing services for homes and businesses in Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas. If you need water heater maintenance, or a new water heater installation, we can help. Whether you have a traditional tank water heater or a tankless system, the following essential tips will help you protect your equipment and keep the hot water flowing year after year.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Water heaters may seem simple, but inside the tank and heating components, a lot is happening. Over time, minerals in the water supply, especially in areas with hard water, settle at the bottom of the tank or collect on heating elements. This sediment buildup forces your water heater to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear.
Skipping maintenance can lead to:
- Higher utility bills
- Rust or corrosion
- Reduced hot water supply
- Unexpected repairs
- Premature system failure
A well-maintained water heater can last 8 to 12 years for tank systems, and 15 to 20 years for tankless units, making routine care a smart, cost-effective choice for any homeowner.
Know Your Water Heater Type
Before diving into maintenance tasks, it’s important to know what type of water heater you have. While many tips apply to both styles, some steps are specific to tank or tankless systems.
Tank Water Heaters
These store hot water inside a large, insulated tank. They typically require:
- Annual flushing
- Anode rod inspections
- Temperature and pressure (T&P) valve testing
Tankless Water Heaters
These heat water on demand and are highly efficient. They typically require:
- Descaling (especially in hardwater areas)
- Filter cleaning
- Vent and air intake checks
When you better understand your system, you can customize your maintenance routine and avoid missing critical steps. Our team at McDaniel Service, Inc. is made up of skilled, highly qualified licensed and insured technicians that work hard to meet high industry standards. Let our professionals assist you with creating a maintenance routine that works for your needs and budget.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
1. Flush the Tank Annually (for Tank Units)
Flushing your water heater is one of the most important tasks to keep it running efficiently. Over time, sediment, primarily calcium and magnesium, settles at the bottom of the tank. This buildup forces your heater to warm through a thick layer of minerals before heating the water, wasting energy and stressing the system.
How Flushing Helps
- Improves heating efficiency
- Reduces noise (popping or rumbling sounds)
- Prevents overheating
- Prolongs the lifespan of the heating elements and tank
Most manufacturers recommend a full flush at least once a year. If you live in an area with very hard water, twice-yearly flushing may be even better.
2. Test the Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve
Every tank water heater has a temperature and pressure valve, a safety device that prevents excessive pressure buildup inside the tank. If this valve fails, it can create a dangerous situation. This means testing it regularly is crucial.
How to Test It
- Place a bucket under the valve’s discharge tube
- Lift the valve’s lever for a moment
- Water should release briefly and stop when the lever is lowered
If the valve sticks, leaks, or doesn’t release water, it may need professional replacement. Testing it once a year helps ensure your system stays safe and functional.
3. Check the Anode Rod to Prevent Rust
Typically made of aluminum, magnesium, or zinc, the anode rod prevents rust inside the tank by attracting corrosive elements in the water. It is literally designed to deteriorate so your tank does not.
When to Inspect
Check the anode rod every two to three years, or annually if you have hard water.
Signs It Needs Replacing
- It’s less than ½ inch thick
- It’s coated in calcium
- It’s completely corroded
Replacing a worn anode rod can add years to your water heater’s lifespan and prevent costly tank failure.
4. Adjust the Temperature for Efficiency & Safety
The recommended temperature setting for most water heaters is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This level provides comfortable hot water while reducing the risk of scalding and lowering energy use.
Benefits of Lower Temps
- Saves energy (3 to 5% for every 10 degree decrease)
- Slows mineral buildup
- Reduces overheating strain
- Extends equipment lifespan
If your water heater is set above 130 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re paying more for water that’s hotter than you will ever need and shortening the life of your appliance.
5. Insulate the Tank & Pipes
Insulation is an easy, affordable upgrade that boosts efficiency and protects your water heater.
Why Insulate?
- Reduces heat loss
- Shortens waiting time for hot water
- Helps maintain water temperature during freezing weather
- Lessens workload on the heating system
Pipe insulation is especially important if your water heater is in a basement, garage, or unheated space.
6. Schedule Regular Descaling for Tankless Units
Tankless water heaters have many advantages, including endless hot water and higher efficiency. But they’re extremely sensitive to mineral buildup, particularly hard water scaling.
Why Descaling Matters
Mineral deposits can clog:
- Heating elements
- Heat exchangers
- Filters
- Water lines
Most tankless water heaters should be descaled every 12 months, though homes with hard water may need it twice a year. Professional descaling cleans critical components and keeps your tankless system working at peak performance.
7. Clean the Air Intake & Exhaust (Tankless Units)
Tankless water heaters use ventilation systems to pull in clean air and expel exhaust. Dust, pet hair, and debris can clog these vents, which can reduce efficiency and lead to system errors.
How to Stay on Top of It
- Check vents quarterly
- Clear any visible obstructions
- Schedule professional inspections annually
Good airflow is essential for safe, efficient tankless water heater operation.
8. Look for Early Warning Signs
Like any home appliance, your water heater gives hints when something is wrong. Catching small issues early can prevent huge repairs later.
Common Warning Signs
- Rumbling or popping noises
- Rust-colored water
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Water around the base of the tank
- Sudden drop in hot water supply
- Strange smells (burning, metallic, musty)
If you notice any of these, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection before the problem worsens.
9. Keep the Area Around Your Water Heater Clear
Whether you have a tank or tankless system, proper airflow is essential. Storing items too close to the unit can create fire hazards, restrict airflow, or make maintenance more difficult.
Best Practices
- Keep a clear 2-foot radius around the heater
- Avoid storing flammable products nearby
- Keep the top of the tank accessible
A clutter-free space also makes it easier to spot leaks or issues early.
10. Get a Professional Inspection Every Year
Some maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, but a licensed HVAC or plumbing technician should inspect your water heater annually. Professionals have tools and expertise to spot issues you may overlook, before they turn into major repairs.
A Professional Inspection Can Include:
- Checking heating elements
- Assessing thermostat performance
- Testing safety valves
- Inspecting venting and airflow
- Measuring water pressure
- Checking for leaks and corrosion
- Ensuring the system meets code and manufacturer guidelines
Regular professional care maximizes efficiency, improves safety, and extends your water heater’s lifespan. Need a new water heater to replace your malfunctioning or outdated one? Ask McDaniel Service, Inc. about our current offers to save you money on a brand-new hot water tank with professional installation.
Protect Your Water Heater and Your Home
Your water heater works behind the scenes every day, keeping your home comfortable and functional. With the right maintenance habits, flushing, inspecting components, adjusting temperatures, and scheduling annual check-ups, you can extend its lifespan, reduce energy costs, and avoid stressful breakdowns. Need help with water heater maintenance? Contact our HVAC and plumbing team at 703-214-2152 today to schedule a professional inspection and keep your system running at its best year after year.
