Your water heater is used more than any appliance in your home. It runs when you bathe, cook, do laundry and clean the house. However, if you fail to maintain it, it will not be there when you need it. If you are wondering how often you should service your water heater, the answer is simple: Once a year is best.

Why Annual Maintenance Matters

Over time, minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, build up in water heaters, and this can eventually cause them to work much harder than necessary. This is called sediment, and it is responsible for more wear and tear and higher energy bills. If the sediment is allowed to remain, problems can result, such as a reduction in hot water, strange noises from the tank, rusty or discolored water, leaks or cracks in the tank and complete system failure.

Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters

The type of water heater you have in your home can affect how plumbers will service it. Tank models must be serviced annually. During the service call, parts like the anode rod, thermostat and pressure relief valve will be checked. Plumbers will also flush the tank.

Tankless water heaters also require annual maintenance. This is especially true if you have hard water in your home. The system should be flushed to remove scale buildup that can block the heating elements.

This does not matter whether you have a gas or electric model. Annual service helps ensure a steady supply of hot water.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Service Now

Even if you maintain your water heater, trouble can sometimes occur. Signs that you must call a plumber include water taking longer to heat, leaking near the tank, water smelling strange or having a metallic taste, banging or popping sounds or no hot water at all. Do not delay in calling for help. Waiting too long can lead to even more significant problems that can be expensive to fix.

Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

Most water heaters will last between eight to 12 years; however, with proper care, yours can last even longer. There are some things you can do on your own in addition to annual maintenance that can extend the life span of this appliance. Set the thermostat to 120°F to reduce wear and tear. Also, keep the area around the heater clean and clear. Do not use this space for storage. Finally, check for leaks or rust on a regular basis.

Servicing your water heater once each year may not seem like it is a big deal; however, this can save you from stress, cold showers and unnecessary spending. For service for your water heater in your Antioch, CA home, contact the pros at Almighty Plumbing right now.