It’s likely you don’t give much thought to your water heater until it goes kaput. One cold shower is all it takes to make anyone take notice. But with many water heater problems, there’s no big, dramatic breakdown. They tend to develop slowly, in many cases, because the appliance has not been serviced in a long time. If you’re wondering how frequently to schedule a checkup, that depends on the age of your system, how heavily you use it, and the type of water that flows through your house’s pipes.

Yearly Service Keeps Trouble Away

Most professionals recommend having your water heater serviced once a year. Over time, minerals from your water build up in the tank. This sediment can cause your water heater to work harder than necessary. And if the sediment accumulates too high, it can lead to overheating, loud banging noises, or damage to the tank.

Signs Your Water Heater Might Be Struggling

If your water is slow to heat up or runs out quicker than it used to, that may be a sign that your water heater is struggling. Another clue is noise. Water heaters are usually silent, so if you hear popping or rumbling, something’s up. The gradual buildup of sediment is frequently the culprit. Routine flushing can clear that out and get things flowing smoothly again. One service visit every year should include this type of cleaning, along with checking the pressure valve and examining the anode rod, which helps fight rust inside the tank.

Hard Water Makes Things Worse

If you have hard water in your area, you may need service more than once a year. It is full of minerals, and these like to build up in your water heater. Even in a small household, the accumulation can be fast. In areas with hard water, technicians frequently suggest a softener to ease the load on your system. But even then, more regular maintenance and repairs can get the appliance working as it should.

Skipping Service Can Cost You

While no one enjoys unexpected home repairs, if you skip a $100 service, you could end up with a $1,500 replacement. If your water heater floods your floor, that’s more of an issue than taking cold showers. Yearly maintenance helps nab the small problems before they become big ones. It’s particularly crucial when your water heater is more than eight years old. At that age, the system is more susceptible to leaks, rust, and other problems.

Whether you share your home with a busy family or live alone, reliable access to hot water is not something you want to lose. If you live in Antioch, CA and need water heater service, call our team at Almighty Plumbing. We’re always ready to help.