The hot water heater comes about as close to being maintenance-free as any household appliance. Once it is properly installed and set to the right temperature, very little is required to keep it functioning efficiently for a long time. However, there are a few steps you should take to prevent leaks and to ensure your water heater maintains it’s efficiency. While each manufacturer has its own checklist of recommended periodic maintenance steps, in general, what should be done is as follows.
Water Heater Maintenance Schedule
Flushing Your Water Heater
Replacing the Anode Rod
Water Heater Maintenance Schedule
Once every two months:
Inspect the water heater. Check for water leaks, either at plumbing joints or, for tank-type water heaters, coming from the tank itself. Check all plumbing joints for excessive or unusual corrosion. If the water heater is gas-powered, check the condition of any flex hose and the couplings (including smelling for gas leaks), and make sure no flammable materials are near the area of combustion. On a tank-type water heater, test the temperature and pressure relief valve to make sure it opens and closes freely. Turn on a nearby hot water tap and listen for unusual sounds (especially hammering or crackling) that might indicate a more serious water heater problem.