6 Money-Saving Tips for Increasing the Longevity of Your Water Heater
Replacing a water heater is no small expense. Depending on the type and size, a new unit can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $7,500 or more, including installation. Preventative water heater maintenance is the key if you want to ward off that hefty price tag. With proper care and maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater and keep it running efficiently for years to come. Here are some preventative maintenance steps to get the most out of your water heater while keeping your energy bills in check.

Flush the Tank or Tankless Water Heater Regularly
Over time, sediment and mineral deposits can build up inside your water heater tank or tankless heat exchanger, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage.
- How to Flush the Tank: Drain the tank completely at least once a year to remove sediment. This ensures your heater operates efficiently and prevents overheating.
- How to Flush the Tankless Unit: Hopefully your tankless unit was installed with bypass valves, used to clean the system. If not, get some installed by your plumber so you can remove sediment and caked-on deposits that have heated and stuck on the heat exchanger.
- Why It Matters: A clean water heater improves water heating efficiency and prevents corrosion, rust, and premature failure, extending the unit’s lifespan.
Check and Replace the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a critical component that prevents rust from forming in your water heater tank.
- What to Do: Inspect the anode rod every two to three years. If it’s worn down or corroded, replace it immediately.
- Why It Matters: A functioning anode rod protects the tank lining by attracting particles in the water to stick to it and not the lining of the tank, helping your water heater last longer.
Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Proper insulation reduces heat loss and improves the overall efficiency of your water heater.
- How to Insulate: Cover the tank with a water heater insulation blanket and wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation.
- Why It Matters: Insulating your water heater reduces standby heat loss, saving energy and lowering utility bills.
Set the Thermostat to the Right Temperature
Your water heater’s thermostat setting plays a significant role in both energy efficiency and safety.
- Optimal Setting: Keep the thermostat set to 120°F.
- Why It Matters: This temperature is hot enough to prevent bacterial growth within the unit but cool enough to avoid scalding of young children and elderly parents. It also prevents unnecessary and excessive energy use.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Undoubtedly, the most crucial step you can take to protect your water heater is to have it regularly maintained by an experienced professional. Routine professional inspections ensure your water heater stays in top shape.
- What a Pro Can Do: A technician can check for hidden issues, clean components, and make adjustments to optimize performance both immediately and for the life of the heater.
- Why It Matters: Professional care prevents minor problems from turning into costly repairs or replacements.
Address Leaks Immediately
Even a tiny leak can cause big problems if left untreated.
- How to Check for Leaks: Inspect the area around your water heater regularly. Look for puddles, rust, or dampness. If the water heater is in the attic, a floodstop can be installed that will turn the unit off when water hits the sensor.
- Why It Matters: Finding and fixing leaks quickly prevents water damage in your home and keeps your water heater running efficiently.
Why Does Water Heater Care Matter
An ounce of maintenance is worth pounds of cure for your water heater or any other home appliance. In other words, it’s more efficient and less costly to proactively maintain your home’s equipment than react to emergencies that necessitate repairs. Specifically, regular maintenance can:
- Extend your water heater’s lifespan by several years.
- Save hundreds of dollars on energy bills by improving efficiency.
- Avoid the stress of unplanned and costly emergency replacements.
Contact CW Service Pros for Expert Water Heater Care
Don’t wait for a breakdown to give your water heater the attention it deserves. CW Service Pros specialize in water heater maintenance, repairs, and installations. Whether you need a professional inspection or advice on keeping your unit in peak condition, we’re here to help.
Contact CW Service Pros today to schedule a water heater checkup and ensure your system stays efficient and reliable for years!