When it comes to home maintenance, few tasks are as crucial—and often overlooked—as caring for your water heater. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), water heating typically makes up around 17–19% of a household’s energy consumption, ranking just behind heating and cooling costs. Regular upkeep not only extends your system’s lifespan but also protects your investment from costly water heater repair or premature water heater replacement in Upland. This annual water heater service checklist guides you through straightforward, homeowner-friendly steps to keep your system running safely and efficiently year-round.
Start With a Thorough Visual Inspection:
Every year, take time to look over your unit carefully. Check for corrosion around the tank and piping, signs of water pooling on the floor, or worn insulation. Even tankless water heater repair issues often start with small leaks or mineral buildup. A quick visual check can alert you early before minor problems become major headaches.
Flush the Tank to Clear Sediment:
Over time, sediment naturally collects at the bottom of your tank, reducing efficiency and sometimes even damaging the heating element. Flushing your tank annually helps prevent these issues, lowering energy use and extending your heater’s life. Even if you recently scheduled a water heater installation, starting this habit early ensures consistent performance.
Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve:
The temperature and pressure relief valve, or TPR valve, is essential for preventing excessive pressure buildup. Lift the valve’s lever and allow it to snap back. If water flows out and stops when you release the lever, the valve is working properly. If not, a quick call for water heater service or water heater repair in Upland is necessary to keep your system safe.
Check and Adjust the Temperature:
Keeping your water heater set around 120°F is ideal. It’s hot enough to prevent bacteria but cool enough to reduce scalding risk and energy waste. If your heater runs hotter, lower it for safety and savings. New water heater installation projects often default to higher settings, so be sure to check after installation.
Examine the Anode Rod:
The anode rod attracts minerals that would otherwise corrode your tank. It should be checked annually and replaced if worn down to less than half an inch thick. If neglected, corrosion can eat through the tank itself, often leading to an unavoidable water heater replacement.
Consider Professional Support:
While many steps on the water heater service checklist can be DIY, others—like electrical checks or comprehensive tankless water heater repair—require professional tools and expertise. A licensed plumber can ensure your system meets safety standards and runs at peak efficiency.
Wrap Up and Plan Ahead:
By following this checklist each year, you’re not just avoiding unexpected water heater repair costs—you’re also protecting your family’s comfort and your home’s value. Remember, even a brand-new water heater installation benefits from routine care to maintain efficiency and safety.
For homeowners in Upland who prefer peace of mind, working with a skilled professional makes all the difference. Sweetwater Plumbing understands the importance of having a skilled plumber on hand to address any problem, whether it’s a leak, water heater installation Ontario CA, or tankless water heater repair ontario. Our team of experienced plumbers offers a comprehensive range of services in Upland, including water heater replacement Upland, hot water heater repair Riverside, and water heater repair Riverside, ensuring we can meet all your residential plumbing needs. We also proudly provide water heater replacement Rancho Cucamonga for nearby homeowners.
Contact Sweetwater Plumbing today for expert care, repairs, and installations tailored to your home’s needs.
