Bedrock Plumbing Blog

When it comes to home comfort, a water heater is one of those unsung heroes that we often take for granted—until it stops working. The inconvenience of a cold shower or no hot water at all can quickly turn into a major disruption. Many homeowners face the dilemma of whether to repair or opt for a water heater replacement. However, the good news is that with regular maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater and delay the need for a costly replacement.

At Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, we often see water heaters prematurely failing due to neglect. This blog will walk you through how simple, routine care can keep your water heater running efficiently for years, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters for Your Water Heater

Your water heater works hard every day to provide hot water for showers, washing dishes, laundry, and more. Over time, sediment, minerals, and corrosion can build up inside the tank and on heating elements, reducing efficiency and causing wear. Without regular maintenance, these issues worsen, leading to frequent repairs or the need for a full water heater replacement.

Proper maintenance helps prevent sediment buildup, protects against corrosion, and ensures all components function safely. This not only improves performance but also extends the life of your water heater. Instead of facing an unexpected breakdown, you can enjoy consistent hot water and peace of mind.

Key Maintenance Tasks to Extend Your Water Heater’s Lifespan

1. Flush the Tank Regularly

One of the most important maintenance steps is flushing your water heater tank at least once a year. Sediment from minerals in your water settles at the bottom of the tank, which can insulate the heating element and reduce efficiency. Over time, this sediment can cause damage that leads to leaks and the need for a water heater replacement.

Flushing removes this buildup, allowing your water heater to heat water more effectively and last longer. It’s a simple task that can be done by homeowners comfortable with basic plumbing or by professionals like Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning.

2. Check and Replace the Anode Rod

Inside your water heater is an anode rod, a metal piece that attracts corrosive elements in the water to protect the tank from rusting. Over time, the anode rod corrodes and loses effectiveness. If not replaced, the tank itself will start to rust, drastically shortening the water heater’s life and forcing an early water heater replacement.

Checking the anode rod every 2-3 years and replacing it as needed is a small investment that can add years to your water heater’s lifespan.

3. Adjust the Thermostat Temperature

Setting your water heater’s thermostat too high can cause unnecessary wear and increase energy bills. Experts recommend keeping the temperature around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This setting provides enough hot water for daily use while reducing stress on the heating elements.

Lowering the temperature not only saves energy but also helps prevent overheating, which can lead to premature failure and the need for a water heater replacement.

4. Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature-pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety feature that releases excess pressure inside the tank. If this valve malfunctions or gets clogged, it can cause dangerous pressure buildup and damage your water heater.

Regularly testing the pressure relief valve ensures it works properly and protects your water heater from failure. If the valve is faulty, replacing it promptly can prevent costly repairs or the need for a full water heater replacement.

5. Use a Water Softener if You Have Hard Water

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause scale buildup inside your water heater. This scale damages heating elements and reduces efficiency, leading to early wear and the need for a water heater replacement.

Installing a water softener helps prevent scale buildup, protecting your water heater and extending its lifespan.

Signs You Might Need a Water Heater Replacement

Even with the best maintenance, water heaters don’t last forever. Typical tank-style water heaters have an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years. If your water heater is older than this or shows signs of serious problems, replacement might be the best option.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Frequent repairs or leaks
• Rust-colored or metallic-smelling water
• Inconsistent hot water or insufficient heating
• Strange noises like rumbling or popping
• Visible corrosion on the tank

If you notice these issues, it’s wise to contact professionals like Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning to inspect your system. Sometimes, a water heater replacement is more cost-effective than ongoing repairs.

How Professional Maintenance Services Help

While some maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, professional inspection and servicing are invaluable. Experts can:

• Thoroughly flush and clean your tank
• Inspect and replace the anode rod
• Test safety valves and thermostats
• Check for leaks and corrosion
• Provide advice on water softening and insulation

Regular professional maintenance from a trusted company like Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning helps catch problems early and keeps your water heater running efficiently, delaying the need for a water heater replacement.

Tips for Maximizing Your Water Heater’s Lifespan

• Schedule annual maintenance checks
• Flush the tank every 6 to 12 months
• Keep thermostat at recommended temperature
• Inspect anode rod every 2-3 years
• Use a water softener if you have hard water
• Insulate your water heater and pipes to reduce heat loss
• Turn off the water heater if you’re away for an extended period

Following these tips can save you money on energy bills and repairs, while also extending the life of your water heater.