Most homeowners don't think about their water heater until it stops working. But a little routine attention can extend the life of the unit significantly — and help you catch small problems before they turn into a flooded utility room.

Here's what to check and how often.

Flush the Tank Once a Year

Sediment — mostly mineral deposits from the water supply — settles at the bottom of the tank over time. It reduces efficiency, makes the heater work harder, and can cause a rumbling or popping sound when the unit heats up.

Flushing the tank once a year removes the buildup. The process involves connecting a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and letting it run until the water runs clear. If you've never done it and the heater is several years old, it's worth having a plumber do the first flush — heavily sediment-filled tanks can have stuck valves.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety device that releases pressure if the tank overheats. It should be tested once a year to make sure it opens and closes properly.

Lift the lever briefly and let it snap back — you should hear a small rush of water or steam. If nothing happens, or if it leaks after the test, the valve needs to be replaced. This is a straightforward repair but an important one.

Check the Anode Rod Every 3–5 Years

The anode rod is a metal rod inside the tank that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank walls from rusting. When the rod is depleted, the tank itself starts to corrode.

Replacing the anode rod every 3–5 years (or sooner in areas with hard water) is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of a water heater. It's a relatively inexpensive part and a simple job for a plumber.

Inspect for Leaks and Corrosion

Every few months, take a look around the base of the water heater and at the supply and discharge connections. Look for:

• Moisture or rust stains on the floor around the unit
• Corrosion at the pipe connections
• A slow drip from the T&P valve (which can indicate the valve is failing or the pressure is too high)

Catching a small leak early is much better than discovering a flooded utility room.

Know the Age of Your Unit

Most tank water heaters last 8–12 years. You can find the manufacture date on the label — it's often encoded in the serial number. If your heater is approaching 10 years old and starting to show any of the signs above, it's worth getting a professional opinion on whether repair or replacement makes more sense.

Tankless water heaters last longer — typically 15–20 years — but still benefit from annual descaling, especially in areas with hard water.

When to Call a Plumber

• No hot water, or water that's not getting as hot as it used to
• Discolored or rusty water from the hot tap
• A rumbling or popping sound during heating cycles
• Visible leaks around the unit or connections
• The unit is more than 10 years old and hasn't been serviced

We install and service water heaters across San Luis Obispo County. If yours is due for a checkup or you're thinking about an upgrade, call us at 805-528-CLOG (2564) or book online.