How to Keep Your Hot Water Heater Running Efficiently

“Hot Water Heater” or Just Water Heater?

Let’s clear something up right away: “hot water heater” isn’t technically correct. Why? Because you can’t heat hot water—you’re heating cold or lukewarm water to make it hot! Despite the common phrase, what you actually have in your home is just a water heater.

Now that we’ve got that sorted, let’s talk about how to keep your water heater running efficiently. Whether you have a traditional tank model or a tankless system, a little maintenance goes a long way in preventing breakdowns, reducing energy costs, and ensuring you never run out of hot water.

1. Set the Right Temperature 🔥

Many water heaters come preset at 140°F, but this is often too high, leading to higher energy bills and potential scalding risks. The ideal setting? 120°F.

💡 Benefits of Lowering the Temperature:
✅ Saves energy—lowering by 10°F can cut heating costs by 5%
✅ Prevents scalding, especially for kids and elderly family members
✅ Reduces wear and tear on the heater

To adjust:

• Tank water heater: Locate the thermostat dial (usually near the bottom of the tank) and turn it to 120°F.
• Tankless water heater: Use the digital control panel to adjust the temperature.

2. Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

Over time, minerals and sediment build up inside the tank, causing noisy operation, slower heating times, and reduced efficiency. Flushing your water heater once a year helps maintain performance.

How to flush your tank:

1. Turn off the power (electric) or gas supply.
2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom.
3. Let the water drain completely to flush out sediment.
4. Close the valve, refill the tank, and turn the power back on.

If you have hard water, flushing every six months is recommended to prevent excess buildup.

3. Check the Anode Rod to Prevent Corrosion

The anode rod is a metal rod inside the tank that attracts corrosion to protect your water heater. If it wears out, your tank can rust from the inside out, leading to leaks.

🔍 How to check it:

• Turn off the water heater and let it cool.
• Remove the anode rod using a wrench.
• If it’s heavily corroded (less than ½ inch thick), replace it.

Pro Tip: Anode rods last 3–5 years, so check them regularly!

4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve for Safety

The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a safety feature that prevents excess pressure buildup, which could cause the tank to burst.

How to test it:

1. Turn off the power to the heater.
2. Place a bucket under the valve and lift the lever slightly.
3. If water flows out, it’s working properly. If not, replace the valve.

Testing this valve once a year ensures your water heater operates safely.

5. Insulate for Better Efficiency

Water heaters lose heat, especially if they’re located in cold areas like garages or basements. Insulating the tank and pipes can reduce heat loss by up to 45%, lowering energy costs.

How to insulate:

• Wrap a water heater blanket around the tank.
• Use foam pipe insulation on exposed hot water pipes.
• Avoid covering control panels, vents, or warning labels.

For tankless water heaters, insulating pipes is the best way to improve efficiency.

6. Look Out for Leaks and Rust

Leaks are a major warning sign that your water heater might be failing. Even a small leak can lead to water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.

🔍 Signs of trouble:
✔ Water pooling around the base of the heater
✔ Rusty or discolored water coming from your faucets
✔ Moisture buildup on the tank or connections

If you notice a leak, call a plumber immediately! Catching the problem early can save you thousands on a full replacement.

7. Consider Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater

If your water heater is 10–15 years old, it’s time to start thinking about an upgrade. Tankless water heaters provide endless hot water, take up less space, and use less energy.

💡 Why switch to tankless?
✔ No running out of hot water—perfect for large families
✔ Saves up to 30% on energy bills
✔ Lasts up to 20 years (compared to 10-15 years for tank models)

While the initial cost is higher, the long-term savings and convenience make it a smart investment.

Keep Your Hot Water Heater Running Smoothly

Even though we call it a “hot water heater”, what really matters is keeping your water heater in top shape. By following these simple tips—adjusting the temperature, flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, testing the pressure valve, insulating pipes, and watching for leaks—you can ensure your water heater runs efficiently and safely for years to come.

If you’re having water heater problems or considering an upgrade, Best Care Home Services is here to help!