Few things are worse than stepping into an ice-cold shower on a freezing Denver morning. Your water heater plays a critical role in your home, ensuring you have hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. But without regular maintenance, sediment buildup, corrosion, or failing components could leave you facing unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
At Done, we know how important reliable hot water is, especially when temperatures drop. Since 1999, we’ve been helping homeowners in Denver and Aurora keep their water heaters running smoothly. In this article, we’ll cover why routine maintenance is essential, common water heater problems, and how professional care can keep your system working efficiently all year long.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Taking care of your water heater isn’t just about convenience—it’s about saving energy, protecting your home, and getting the most from your system. Regular maintenance provides several benefits:
- Better Efficiency: Over time, mineral deposits and sediment collect inside the tank, forcing the water heater to use more energy to do its job. Flushing the tank helps it work more efficiently, lowering your energy bills.
- Longer Lifespan: A properly maintained water heater can last much longer than one that’s ignored. Catching small problems early prevents more serious issues, saving you from needing a replacement too soon.
- Fewer Breakdowns: Running out of hot water unexpectedly is frustrating. Routine checkups help professionals spot potential issues before they become major headaches.
Keeping up with maintenance ensures your water heater works when you need it, without unpleasant surprises.
Common Issues Caused by Lack of Maintenance
Skipping maintenance can lead to a variety of problems that affect both performance and safety:
- Sediment Build-Up: Minerals in the water settle at the bottom of the tank over time, causing noises like popping or rumbling. This reduces efficiency and can even harm heating elements.
- Corrosion: The anode rod inside the tank prevents rust, but without regular checks, it can wear out. If the rod isn’t replaced, the tank itself can start to corrode, leading to leaks.
- Hot Water Shortages: Worn-out heating elements or burners can leave you with less hot water, which can impact everything from showers to dishwashing.
These issues can be avoided with proper care. Consistent maintenance saves time, money, and stress down the road.
Key Components Requiring Regular Attention
To keep your water heater in good shape, several parts need routine attention:
- Tank: The tank heats and stores water but can collect sediment over time. Flushing it regularly keeps everything running smoothly.
- Anode Rod: This part attracts corrosive minerals to protect the tank from rust. Inspecting and replacing it when needed prevents costly damage.
- Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve: This valve releases pressure to prevent dangerous malfunctions. Testing it ensures the system stays safe and functional.
Focusing on these components helps maintain your water heater’s efficiency and safety.
Essential Maintenance Tasks
Flushing the Tank
Over time, sediment builds up inside the tank, impacting performance and potentially causing damage. Flushing the tank is one of the most important maintenance tasks. Professionals drain and clean the tank to remove sediment safely and refill it properly. Doing this annually helps your water heater perform better and last longer.
Inspecting and Replacing the Anode Rod
The anode rod plays a key role in preventing rust inside the tank. As it wears down, the tank becomes vulnerable to corrosion. Professionals can check the condition of the rod and replace it when necessary, which can add years to the life of your water heater.
Testing the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
This valve keeps your water heater safe by releasing excess pressure. Testing ensures it’s working properly and able to handle any pressure buildup. Technicians can test and replace the valve if needed to avoid potential hazards.
Adjusting the Thermostat Settings
Setting the thermostat at the right temperature—usually around 120°F—improves efficiency and safety. Higher settings waste energy and increase the risk of burns, while lower settings may not provide enough hot water. If adjusting the thermostat feels confusing, a professional can handle it during a routine service visit.
Insulating the Water Heater and Pipes
Adding insulation to your water heater and pipes reduces heat loss, which improves energy efficiency and lowers utility bills. This step is especially helpful in colder months. Professionals can apply insulation correctly to ensure maximum benefits.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Maintenance
Your water heater may give you hints when it’s time for a checkup. Watch for:
- Strange noises like popping or rumbling, often caused by sediment buildup.
- Uneven water temperatures or delays in getting hot water.
- Rust, corrosion, or leaks around the unit.
- Less hot water than usual.
If you notice any of these signs, calling in a professional can help restore your system and prevent bigger problems.
The Risks of DIY Maintenance
Although some maintenance tasks seem simple, trying to handle them yourself can lead to problems:
- Voided Warranty: Many water heater warranties require professional service. DIY repairs can void the warranty, leaving you with no coverage.
- Safety Concerns: Mishandling electrical parts, gas lines, or the tank can cause serious risks like shocks or gas leaks.
- Lack of Expertise: Professionals have the tools and experience to handle maintenance safely and correctly, ensuring the system works as it should.
Letting a professional take care of your water heater protects both your system and your home.
Why Choose Done! for Your Water Heater Maintenance
Done! has been helping homeowners in Aurora and the Greater Denver area since 1999. Our licensed and insured team specializes in water heater care and offers:
- Experienced Technicians: With over two decades of experience, we’ve handled every kind of water heater problem.
- 24/7 Service: Water heater issues don’t wait for regular hours, and neither do we.
- Transparent Pricing: Our upfront pricing ensures there are no surprises.
- Customer-First Approach: We focus on delivering high-quality work and making sure you’re fully satisfied.
Our Professional Maintenance Services
When you schedule with Done!, we provide a thorough service tailored to your water heater’s needs:
- Detailed inspection and cleaning.
- Safe removal of sediment through tank flushing.
- Anode rod checks and replacements, if necessary.
- Testing and adjusting safety features like the temperature and pressure relief valve.
Don’t Let Water Heater Problems Catch You Off Guard
We’re here to keep your system running smoothly, so you can count on hot water every day.
A neglected water heater isn’t just inefficient—it can lead to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and even safety risks. If you’ve noticed fluctuating water temperatures, strange noises, or signs of corrosion, it’s time for a professional checkup.
At Done, we make water heater maintenance easy and hassle-free. Our licensed plumbers will inspect, clean, and optimize your system to ensure you have reliable hot water when you need it most. Call (833) 539-9153 or visit itsdone.com to schedule your water heater service today.
One Call… It’s Done!