Like all home appliances, water heaters require regular care—you rely on yours every day, so establish a maintenance routine. Staying ahead of problems and handling repairs early will ensure you maximize its life span and continue to enjoy efficient, reliable service. Here’s what you should do.

How to Properly Care for a Water Heater

1. Check the Anode Rod

This rod uses electrolysis to draw corrosion away from the tank’s interior and has an average life span of four to five years. When it nears the end of its life, it won’t be able to perform effectively, and your tank will begin to rust. To prevent this issue, check the anode rod annually and replace it when it starts to smell or form a thick gel on its surface.

2. Drain Sediments

If you have hard water, sediments are likely lingering in the heater. These particles need to be flushed out periodically; otherwise, they’ll damage the tank’s interior.

The drain valve is typically located at the base of the water heater. Disconnect the power supply and allow water to flow from the valve into a bucket—there should be debris in the liquid. Continue doing this until there’s no debris, and repeat every six months.

3. Schedule an Inspection

Most water heaters require an annual professional inspection to make sure they’re functioning properly and efficiently. A plumber will carefully examine each part and seal on the water heater to determine if there are signs of wear. Tell the professional if you’re experiencing any problems, like no hot water or strange noises, and they’ll address the issue before it worsens.

If your appliance is overdue for an inspection, contact the team at Waialae Plumbing and Construction in Honolulu, HI. These experienced technicians have provided Oahu homeowners with reliable water heater maintenance and repairs since 1994. To get more information about their services, visit the website or call (808) 735-8595.