The Ultimate Guide to Water Heater Maintenance

06-08-2025

The Ultimate Guide to Water Heater Maintenance

Your water heater works tirelessly to provide hot showers, clean dishes, and sanitized laundry - until it suddenly stops working. At Judd's Plumbing, we know that proper maintenance can double your water heater's lifespan while preventing costly breakdowns. This comprehensive guide covers everything homeowners need to know about water heater care.

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Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters

1. Prevent Costly Repairs & Early Replacement

• Sediment buildup reduces efficiency by up to 50%
• A neglected anode rod can lead to tank corrosion
• Proper maintenance can extend lifespan beyond 12 years

2. Improve Energy Efficiency

• Just 1/2" of sediment increases energy costs by 15-20%
• Well-maintained heaters use less energy to heat water

3. Ensure Consistent Hot Water Supply

• Maintenance prevents temperature fluctuations
• Reduces risk of cold showers from system failure

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Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

1. Annual Tank Flushing (Critical for Hard Water Areas)

How to do it:

1. Turn off power (electric) or gas supply
2. Connect hose to drain valve, direct to floor drain
3. Open pressure relief valve, then drain valve
4. Flush until water runs clear (20-30 minutes)
5. Close valves, refill tank, restore power

Pro Tip: For gas heaters, relight the pilot according to manufacturer instructions

2. Anode Rod Inspection & Replacement

• The sacrificial rod protects your tank from corrosion
• Check annually; replace when more than 6" of core wire is visible
• Consider aluminum/zinc rods for smelly water issues

3. Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve Test

1. Place bucket under discharge pipe
2. Lift valve lever briefly to release water
3. Ensure valve closes completely when released
4. Replace if water continues flowing

4. Visual Inspection Checklist

✔ Check for leaks at connections and tank seams
✔ Inspect vent piping (gas heaters) for blockages
✔ Examine burner compartment (gas) for debris
✔ Look for corrosion on pipes and tank

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Tankless Water Heater Maintenance

Even tankless models need care:
✅ Annual descaling (especially in hard water areas)
✅ Clean inlet filter screen every 6 months
✅ Inspect venting system for obstructions
✅ Check error codes in manual for specific needs

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When to Call a Professional

Contact Judd's Plumbing if you notice:
⚠️ Discolored water (rusty or cloudy)
⚠️ Rumbling or popping noises from tank
⚠️ Water not heating properly
⚠️ Leaks around the unit
⚠️ Foul odors from hot water

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Maintenance Schedule

| Frequency | Task | | ----- | ----- | | Monthly | Check for leaks, test pressure valve | | Annually | Full tank flush, anode rod inspection | | Every 3-5 Years | Full system inspection by professional | | As Needed | Replace anode rod, heating elements |

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Don't Wait for Cold Showers!

A $150 maintenance service today can prevent a $1,200+ replacement tomorrow.

Schedule Your Water Heater Tune-Up:
Call 623-304-5833
Visit juddsplumbingaz.com

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Social Media Image Idea: A side-by-side comparison of a well-maintained water heater versus a neglected, corroded unit with text: *"Which water heater is yours? Proper maintenance makes all the difference. Call Judd's Plumbing at 623-304-5833."*

Keep your hot water flowing with professional maintenance from Judd's Plumbing - your trusted Arizona water heater experts since 2022.