5 Practical Ways to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

If you want to get the most out of the water heater in your Indianapolis area home, regular maintenance is key. At Mister Water Heater, we’ve helped homeowners save money by finding the right water heater for their homes and helping people with best practices for extending a water heater’s lifespan. Whether you have an electric water heater, gas water heater, or even a tankless unit, following these five tips can help your water heater live a long life.

1. Regularly Drain the Tank

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your water heater functioning properly is by regularly draining the tank. Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can occur, especially if you have hard water. This sediment can reduce the efficiency of your unit and lead to potential damage.

To protect your investment, we suggest hiring a professional to regularly drain your unit. Once the sediment is removed, you may be surprised to see a clear improvement in your water heater's performance.

2. Insulate the Water Heater and Pipes

Another tip to consider is insulating your water heater and the surrounding pipes. This simple step can improve efficiency and reduce the strain on your system, which is especially beneficial during the colder months in Indianapolis. Insulation can help maintain the water temperature longer and reduce energy costs associated with heating.

3. Hire a Professional for Routine Upkeep

While you can handle some maintenance on your own, like pipe insulation, it’s helpful to have a professional service your water heater annually. One of our licensed plumbers can check for issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye, like a faulty pressure relief valve or signs of corrosion. Catching these problems early can prevent costly repairs or the need for an emergency repair service.

4. Quickly Take Care of Repairs

Don't ignore minor issues with your water heater. If you notice strange noises, fluctuating water temperatures, or leaks, address these problems right away. Ignoring them could lead to bigger issues down the line. Timely water heater repair can extend the life of your unit and keep it running efficiently.

5. Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod is a critical component of your water heater that helps prevent corrosion. Over time, the rod itself can corrode and become less effective. Checking the anode rod every one to two years and replacing it when necessary can significantly extend the life of your water heater.

If you’re in the Indianapolis, Brownsburg, Fishers, Greenwood, or surrounding area, the plumbers at Mister Water Heater are here to help. We offer water heater repair, new water heater installation, and maintenance services to residential and commercial spaces.

For water heater maintenance in your Indianapolis area home, contact Mister Water Heater at (833) 270-8502 or request service online today!

Jouviane Alexandre, "9 Tips for Preventative Maintenance on a Hot Water Heater," Angi (blog), Aug. 30, 2024, https://www.angi.com/articles/preventative-maintenance-on-a-hot-water-heater.htm.