Your water heater plays a critical role in your home’s comfort, convenience, and daily routine. From hot showers and clean dishes to laundry and sanitation, it’s a system most homeowners depend on constantly — yet rarely think about until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, when a water heater fails, the disruption is immediate, and repairs or replacements can be costly if problems have been building unnoticed for years.

The good news is that most major water heater failures are preventable with consistent professional care.

Regular inspections, cleanings, and performance checks dramatically extend the life of the system while improving efficiency and safety. Partnering with a qualified plumbing company that offers reliable water heater services ensures small issues are caught early, performance stays consistent, and your home stays protected. The following eight maintenance practices explain what should be done — and why professional oversight matters so much.

1. Inspect the Unit for Leaks and Corrosion

One of the most important aspects of water heater maintenance is routine professional inspection. Trained technicians know exactly where to look for early warning signs such as minor leaks, hidden moisture, rust formation, and corrosion around fittings or the tank itself. These issues often start small and go unnoticed, but they can quickly escalate into major water damage or complete system failure.

Corrosion is especially dangerous because it weakens the tank from the inside out. By the time visible rust appears, structural damage may already be progressing internally. During scheduled service visits, a plumbing professional can evaluate the condition of the unit, identify developing problems, and recommend solutions long before a leak or rupture puts your home at risk.

2. Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment Buildup

Over time, minerals and sediment naturally accumulate inside water heating systems. This buildup reduces heating efficiency, increases energy usage, and places unnecessary strain on internal components. In tank systems, sediment settles at the bottom and creates a barrier between the heat source and the water. In tankless systems, mineral scaling can clog and damage sensitive internal parts.

According to HomeGuide, many tankless water heater repairs could be avoided by having the system flushed and descaled at least once per year. This type of maintenance requires specialized equipment and proper procedures to avoid damage. That’s why professional water heater services include thorough system flushing to restore efficiency, protect components, and extend the overall lifespan of the unit.

3. Test the Pressure Relief Valve for Safety

The temperature and pressure relief valve is one of the most critical safety components on any water heater. Its purpose is to prevent dangerous pressure buildup inside the tank, which could otherwise lead to severe leaks or even catastrophic failure. Because of its importance, this valve must be checked regularly as part of professional maintenance.

If the valve is not functioning correctly, it may fail to release pressure or may leak continuously, both of which are serious safety concerns. During a professional service visit, a technician will test this component, verify proper operation, and replace it if there are any signs of malfunction. This ensures the system continues operating safely and within proper pressure limits.

4. Adjust the Temperature to Prevent Overworking

Many water heaters operate at higher temperatures than necessary, which increases energy consumption and accelerates wear on the system. Excessive heat also contributes to faster mineral buildup, additional stress on components, and a higher risk of scalding at faucets. Proper temperature calibration is an important part of keeping the system balanced and efficient.

During professional water heater services, technicians check and optimize the temperature settings based on your household’s needs and safety guidelines. This not only improves efficiency and comfort but also reduces long-term strain on the unit, helping it operate more smoothly and last longer.

5. Insulate the Tank and Exposed Pipes

Heat loss is one of the silent efficiency killers in many water heating systems. Without proper insulation, heat escapes from the tank and through exposed piping, forcing the system to run more often and work harder to maintain temperature. This leads to higher energy bills and increased wear on the equipment.

As part of comprehensive water heater services, professionals evaluate insulation levels and recommend upgrades where needed. Proper insulation improves energy efficiency, stabilizes performance, and helps ensure hot water reaches fixtures more quickly and consistently throughout the home.

6. Check the Anode Rod to Prevent Tank Rust

Inside most tank-style water heaters is a component called an anode rod, which plays a crucial role in preventing corrosion. This rod attracts corrosive elements in the water, sacrificing itself to protect the steel tank. Over time, the rod naturally deteriorates and eventually must be replaced. If it’s allowed to wear out completely, the tank itself becomes the next target for corrosion, significantly increasing the risk of leaks and premature failure.

If this component is neglected, corrosion begins attacking the tank itself, often leading to leaks and premature system failure. During professional water heater services, technicians inspect the anode rod and determine whether replacement is needed. This single component can add years to the life of a water heater when properly maintained.

7. Keep the Area Around the Heater Clean and Clear

The environment around a water heater is just as important as the unit itself. Poor ventilation, clutter, and stored items near the system can create fire hazards, restrict airflow, and make proper servicing difficult. Dust and debris can also interfere with burners, vents, and other critical components, especially in gas systems. Over time, these conditions can reduce efficiency, increase wear on the system, and raise the risk of safety issues going unnoticed.

During safety-focused water heater services, technicians inspect the surrounding area to ensure proper clearance, ventilation, and accessibility. They also identify environmental factors that could shorten the system’s lifespan or create safety risks, helping homeowners correct problems before they lead to damage or dangerous conditions.

8. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Even when a water heater appears to be working normally, hidden issues can be developing internally. Annual professional maintenance provides a complete system evaluation, including mechanical, electrical, or gas, safety, and performance checks. This proactive approach consistently costs far less than emergency repairs or premature replacement.

Routine water heater services help maximize efficiency, reduce unexpected failures, and extend the overall life of the system. They also allow trained professionals to spot hidden issues early, before they turn into costly repairs or full system replacements. More importantly, they provide peace of mind by ensuring the equipment is operating safely, reliably, and according to manufacturer specifications throughout the year.

Water heaters are one of the most heavily used systems in any home, and they perform best when they’re professionally maintained, not ignored. Consistent inspections, cleanings, adjustments, and component checks dramatically reduce the risk of breakdowns, improve efficiency, and protect your investment for the long term. When these tasks are handled through expert water heater services, homeowners gain reliability, safety, and confidence in their system’s performance. A properly maintained water heater isn’t just about comfort — it’s about prevention, efficiency, and long-term savings.

If you want to make sure your water heater stays reliable, efficient, and problem-free, count on the experts at A-Plus Enterprises. Our team is ready to help you protect your investment and avoid costly breakdowns before they happen. Contact us today to schedule your professional service and enjoy worry-free hot water all year long.