Keep Your Water Heater Running Right
Annual maintenance extends equipment life, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your hot water flowing. Tank and tankless service available.
When Did You Last Service Your Water Heater?
Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until it fails. But like any appliance, water heaters need maintenance to run efficiently and last as long as they should.
According to the Department of Energy, sediment buildup in tank water heaters can reduce efficiency by 15-25% over time. That means higher energy bills and more strain on the unit. For tankless water heaters, mineral scale can restrict flow and cause error codes. Regular maintenance addresses these issues before they become expensive problems.
We service both tank and tankless water heaters. Our technicians flush sediment, check safety components, inspect connections, and identify small problems before they turn into cold showers or flooded basements.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Service
Rumbling or Popping Sounds
Sediment settles at the bottom of tank water heaters. When the burner heats water trapped under sediment, it creates rumbling, popping, or banging noises. This means your water heater is working harder than it should and using more energy.
- Urgency: Schedule maintenance soon. Sediment buildup accelerates wear on the tank bottom.
Hot Water Runs Out Faster
If showers are getting shorter because hot water runs out quicker than it used to, sediment may be taking up space in the tank. Less water capacity means less hot water available. A flush often restores capacity.
- Urgency: Schedule maintenance. This will only get worse.
Water Temperature Fluctuates
Inconsistent water temperature can signal a failing thermostat, heating element issue, or sediment interfering with heat transfer. On tankless units, scale buildup causes temperature swings.
- Urgency: Call for diagnosis. Temperature issues can indicate multiple problems.
Rusty or Discolored Water
Brown or rusty hot water (but clear cold water) often means the anode rod has failed and the tank is corroding from inside. Anode rods are sacrificial components designed to be replaced. Ignoring this leads to tank failure.
- Urgency: Schedule service promptly. Anode rod replacement can extend tank life years.
Rotten Egg Smell in Hot Water
Hydrogen sulfide smell in hot water only (not cold) typically indicates bacteria reacting with the anode rod. More common with well water. A maintenance visit can address this with anode rod replacement or adjustment.
- Urgency: Not dangerous but unpleasant. Schedule when convenient.
It's Been Over a Year Since Last Service
Manufacturers generally recommend annual maintenance for water heaters. If you can’t remember the last time yours was serviced, it’s probably overdue. Prevention is cheaper than emergency replacement.
- Urgency: Schedule maintenance at your convenience. Annual service is ideal.
Tankless Unit Shows Error Codes
Tankless water heaters display error codes when something needs attention. Common codes relate to ignition failure, scale buildup, or flow sensor issues. Maintenance often clears these issues.
- Urgency: Check your manual for the specific code. Call us if unsure.
Types of Water Heater Maintenance We Provide
Tank Water Heater Maintenance
Traditional tank water heaters need annual flushing to remove sediment. We also inspect the anode rod, test the temperature and pressure relief valve, check thermostat calibration, and inspect gas connections or electrical components. Takes about 45-60 minutes.
Includes: Full tank flush, anode rod inspection, T&P valve test, thermostat check, visual inspection of all components.
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
Tankless units need descaling to remove mineral buildup from the heat exchanger. We flush the system with a descaling solution, clean the inlet filter, inspect the venting, and check for error codes. Especially important in hard water areas. Takes about 60-90 minutes.
Includes: Full descale/flush, filter cleaning, venting inspection, system diagnostics, error code clearing.
Electric Water Heater Maintenance
Electric water heaters have heating elements that can develop scale buildup or fail over time. We test both upper and lower elements, check thermostats, inspect wiring connections, and flush the tank. Element replacement available if needed.
Includes: Element testing, thermostat check, tank flush, electrical connection inspection.
Gas Water Heater Maintenance
Gas water heaters require attention to the burner assembly, gas connections, and venting in addition to standard maintenance. We check for proper combustion, inspect the flue, and verify the pilot light or electronic ignition is operating correctly.
Includes: Tank flush, burner inspection, gas connection check, venting inspection, combustion safety check.
Anode Rod Inspection & Replacement
The anode rod protects your tank from corrosion. Made of magnesium or aluminum, it sacrifices itself to protect the steel tank. Most anode rods last 3-5 years depending on water quality. We inspect during maintenance and recommend replacement when needed.
Note: Anode rod replacement is the single most effective way to extend tank water heater life.
Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance
- Extend Equipment Life
Tank water heaters typically last 8-12 years. Tankless units can last 15-20 years. Regular maintenance helps you reach or exceed those lifespans. Skipping maintenance often cuts equipment life significantly.
- Prevent Costly Breakdowns
Most water heater failures we see could have been prevented with maintenance. Catching sediment buildup, a failing anode rod, or a leaking T&P valve early is far cheaper than emergency replacement.
- Lower Energy Bills
Sediment acts as insulation between the burner and the water, making your water heater work harder. The Department of Energy notes that a neglected water heater can use 15-25% more energy than a maintained one. That adds up over time.
- Maintain Warranty Coverage
Many manufacturer warranties require annual maintenance. Skipping service could void your warranty. We document all maintenance performed so you have proof if warranty claims are needed.
- Avoid Water Damage
A failed water heater can dump 40-80 gallons of water into your home in minutes. Maintenance identifies leaks and corrosion before catastrophic failure. Peace of mind is worth the annual service cost.
- Better Hot Water Quality
Sediment and corrosion affect water quality. After a maintenance flush, many customers notice their hot water is cleaner and smells better. Especially noticeable if it’s been years since the last service.
What Water Heater Maintenance Includes
Our comprehensive water heater maintenance service covers:
- For Tank Water Heaters:
- Complete tank flush and sediment removal
- Anode rod inspection (replacement recommended if corroded)
- Temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve test
- Thermostat calibration check
- Gas burner or electric element inspection
- Venting inspection (gas units)
- Electrical connection inspection (electric units)
- Visual inspection for leaks, corrosion, damage
- Water heater age and condition assessment
- For Tankless Water Heaters:
- Full descale flush with professional solution
- Inlet filter cleaning
- Venting inspection and clearance check
- Error code review and clearing
- Flow rate testing
- Ignition system check
- Remote control or thermostat verification
- System diagnostics
- Documentation:
- Written service record
- Recommendations for any needed repairs
- Maintenance schedule reminder
how can we help?
Related Services
Emergency Plumbing
24/7 emergency plumber service for leaks, backups, and sudden plumbing failures.
Drains & Sewer
Drain cleaning, sewer inspections, and water or sewer main repairs done efficiently.
Commercial
Business & industrial plumbing, backflow testing, excavation through High Point and the Triad.
Remodels
Plumbing upgrades and renovations for kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home remodels.
Emergency Plumbing
24/7 emergency plumber service for leaks, backups, and sudden plumbing failures.
Water Heaters
Installation, repair, and maintenance for tank and tankless water heaters.
Repiping
Water lines, sewer lines, gas pipes, underground pipe repair
Leak Detection & Repair
Find and fix water leaks, slab leaks, pipe leaks
Drains & Sewer
Drain cleaning, sewer inspections, and water or sewer main repairs done efficiently.
Commercial
Business & industrial plumbing, backflow testing, excavation through High Point and the Triad.
Remodels
Plumbing upgrades and renovations for kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-home remodels.
Your Plumbing Problem, Solved in 3 Simple Steps!
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Helpful Plumbing Tips From Local Experts
Our blog shares clear advice homeowners can use right away.
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Locations and Areas Served
Plumber Service Company Serving the Entire Triad
Water Heater Maintenance Questions
How much does water heater maintenance cost?
Tank water heater maintenance typically runs $100-150. Tankless water heater maintenance (which requires descaling) usually costs $150-200. Exact pricing depends on unit type and accessibility. We provide upfront pricing before any work.
How often should I service my water heater?
Annual maintenance is recommended for both tank and tankless water heaters. Homes with very hard water may benefit from more frequent service on tankless units to prevent scale buildup.
Can I flush my water heater myself?
Basic tank flushing is possible for handy homeowners. However, professional maintenance includes anode rod inspection, safety valve testing, and component checks that most homeowners can’t do themselves. Tankless maintenance requires specialized descaling equipment.
What's an anode rod and why does it matter?
The anode rod is a sacrificial metal rod inside tank water heaters. It corrodes instead of your tank, protecting the tank from rust. When the anode rod is depleted, your tank starts corroding. Replacing it before it’s gone can add years to your water heater’s life.
My water heater is 10 years old. Is maintenance worth it?
Possibly. We’ll inspect and give you an honest assessment. If the tank is still solid and the anode rod can be replaced, maintenance may extend its life a few more years. If we find significant corrosion or damage, we’ll tell you replacement makes more sense.
Do tankless water heaters really need maintenance?
Yes. Tankless units are not maintenance-free. Scale builds up on the heat exchanger, especially in hard water areas. Without descaling, efficiency drops and the unit can overheat or display error codes. Some manufacturers void warranties if annual maintenance isn’t performed.