Pro Tips Series #1: Best Methods for Maintaining Your Water Heater

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Welcome to our Pro Tips Series, where we share expert insights to help you keep your home water systems running at peak performance and maintain quality water for your family. In this edition, we’ll focus on the best methods for maintaining your water heater — ensuring efficiency, longevity, and safe hot water for your home.


Pro Tip #1: Flush Your Tank Annually

Over time, sediment accumulates at the bottom of your tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the lifespan of your water heater. Draining and flushing the tank once a year clears this sediment and helps maintain optimal performance. On-demand water heaters also require annual service and flushing to ensure efficiency and extend their lifespan.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Flush a Gas Water Heater


On-Demand Water Heaters

For tankless water heaters, annual service and flushing are essential for efficiency and longevity. These systems can accumulate scale inside the heat exchanger, which reduces performance and increases energy use if not cleaned. A professional descaling service, using vinegar or manufacturer-recommended solutions, keeps the system operating at peak efficiency.


Hot Water Solutions -How to maintain your water heater

Pro Tip #2: Check and Replace the Anode Rod

The anode rod inside your water heater is designed to corrode before the tank does, protecting the steel walls from rust. Inspect the rod every 2–3 years and replace it if more than half is worn away. This small step can add years to your heater’s lifespan.

Electric Anode Rods: Upgrading to an electric anode rod can provide long-lasting protection and help extend the life of your water heater by preventing internal tank corrosion more effectively than standard sacrificial rods.

Pro Tip #3. Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

The TPR valve is a crucial safety feature that prevents dangerous pressure buildup. Test it annually by lifting the lever until water flows out of the discharge pipe. If it doesn’t release water or leaks afterward, replace it immediately. This quick test can prevent costly and dangerous failures.

Pro Tip #4. Set the Right Temperature

Most water heaters are set to 140°F by default, but lowering the temperature to 120°F saves energy and reduces the risk of scalding. It’s also easier on the tank, reducing stress on the metal and components. This small adjustment improves safety and efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

Pro Tip #5: Prevent Scaling with Water Treatment

Hard water causes mineral buildup inside water heaters, lowering efficiency and causing premature failure. Installing a water softener or scale-prevention device will minimize scaling and protect your heater’s heating elements and tank lining.

Pro Tip #6: Stop Bacteria and Rotten Egg Smell

If you’ve noticed a sulfur or rotten egg smell coming from your hot water, sulfate-reducing bacteria may be the culprit. KDF filtration media can prevent biofouling of water softener resin and reduce bacterial contamination of water heaters, eliminating odors and keeping water safe.

KDF Filtration Media - The Miracle Media

Pro Tip #7: Insulate the Tank and Pipes

Insulating your water heater tank reduces heat loss, improving efficiency and saving money on energy costs. Don’t forget the pipes — insulating PEX and CPVC plumbing helps deliver hot water efficiently throughout your home, prevents heat loss, and improves overall water heater performance.

Tank vs Tankless Water Heaters

Pro Tips Recap

  • Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup.
  • Check and replace the anode rod regularly — consider electric anode rods.
  • Use a water softener or scale prevention device to stop mineral buildup.
  • Add KDF media to prevent bacteria and rotten egg odors.
  • Insulate the tank and PEX/CPVC pipes for maximum efficiency.

Pro Tip Highlight

Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your water heater but also protects your family’s access to clean, safe, and reliable hot water.

Looking Ahead

This is the first article in our new Pro Tips Series. Stay tuned for Pro Tips Series #2: How to Maintain Your Water Softener for Optimal Efficiency and Quality of Water.


I wish you Good days and Good water!



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