Your water heater is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, but it is also one of the easiest to forget about. Most homeowners do not think about it at all until something goes wrong, which usually means cold showers, leaks, or expensive repairs. With just a little routine care, you can keep your system running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and avoid major headaches down the road.
Water heater maintenance may sound complicated, but the good news is that most of it can be done with simple steps that take only a few minutes each year. Whether you have a traditional tank system or a modern tankless unit, these tips will help you protect your home and your hot water supply.
Know What Type of Water Heater You Have
Before you can maintain your water heater, it helps to understand what you are working with. Most homes in the New Orleans area have either a tank water heater or a tankless system. A traditional tank model stores hot water and keeps it heated until you need it. A tankless heater heats water on demand and can be more energy-efficient.
Check the manufacturer's label on the unit to find the installation date, size, and fuel type. Knowing the age of your system is especially important. Most water heaters last between 8 and 12 years, depending on maintenance and water quality. Once your unit approaches that range, it is wise to keep a closer eye on performance and consider planning for a future replacement.
Check the Temperature Setting
One of the simplest maintenance steps is adjusting the temperature. Many water heaters are set too high from the factory, which wastes energy and increases the risk of scalding. Setting your water heater to around 120 degrees is ideal for most homes.
This minor adjustment helps prevent mineral buildup, reduces strain on the system, and keeps your energy bill lower. It also ensures you have hot water that is comfortable and safe for everyday use.
Inspect for Leaks or Rust
A quick visual inspection can catch problems long before they turn into emergencies. Look around the base of the water heater for moisture or puddles, which may indicate a slow leak. Check the pipes, valves, and connections for rust, corrosion, or mineral deposits.
If you notice rust on the tank itself, it may be a sign that the unit is nearing the end of its life. Corrosion inside the tank can eventually lead to cracks or sudden leaks. Addressing issues early protects your home from water damage and keeps the system running efficiently.
Flush the Tank Once a Year
Sediment from the water supply collects inside your water heater over time. This buildup forces your system to work harder, heats water less efficiently, and can shorten the tank's lifespan. Flushing the tank once a year removes sediment and helps the heater perform more efficiently.
The process is simple. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, let a few gallons drain into a safe location, then close the valve. If the water is cloudy or contains debris, consider a full flush or calling a professional.
In areas with harder water, flushing twice a year can keep the system in even better shape.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve, often called the TPR valve, is a small but important safety feature. It releases pressure if the tank gets too hot or if excessive pressure builds. If this valve stops working, the tank can become dangerous.
To test it, place a bucket under the discharge pipe, gently lift the lever on the valve, and check that water flows out briefly before stopping. If there is no water or if the valve leaks afterward, it may need to be replaced. This quick test helps ensure your system operates safely.
Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Insulating your water heater and surrounding pipes is a simple way to improve energy efficiency and keep water hotter for longer. Older units and heaters located in garages or attics can benefit the most from this upgrade. Pipe insulation sleeves and tank wraps are inexpensive and easy to install.
Better insulation means the heater does not need to work as hard to maintain the temperature, which helps lower your energy bill and reduces overall wear on the system.
For Tankless Units: Clean the Filter and Descale
Tankless water heaters require a few different maintenance steps. These systems often have air filters that need occasional cleaning. Mineral buildup inside the unit can also affect performance. Descaling or flushing tankless systems helps remove those minerals and keeps the heater operating efficiently.
If your tankless water heater has never been descaled, or if you are unsure how to do it, a licensed technician can complete the service and ensure the system is running properly.
Know When It Is Time to Replace the System
Even with great maintenance, no water heater lasts forever. Once your system reaches eight to twelve years of age, pay attention to changes in performance. Signs it may be time to replace the unit include inconsistent water temperature, cloudy water, popping noises, frequent repairs, or visible rust.
Upgrading to a newer model can improve energy efficiency, provide more consistent hot water, and reduce the risk of leaks or unexpected breakdowns.
A Few Minutes of Care Can Save You Thousands
Taking care of your water heater is one of the easiest ways to protect your home and avoid costly repairs. With simple inspections, basic maintenance, and the occasional professional checkup, you can extend the life of your system and keep it running smoothly.
If you are unsure about your water heater's condition or are thinking about upgrading, Team Lirette can connect you with trusted local professionals who can help you make the right choice for your home.