The Homeowner’s Guide to Maintaining Your Water Heater Year-Round
Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, yet it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong. Routine maintenance can help extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
For homeowners in Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro, understanding basic water heater care can help prevent cold showers, water damage, and costly emergency repairs.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Water heaters operate daily and are constantly exposed to pressure, heat, and mineral buildup. Without regular maintenance, small issues can turn into major problems, including leaks or complete failure.
Proper maintenance helps:
Improve energy efficiency
Extend the life of your water heater
Maintain consistent hot water
Reduce the risk of leaks or tank failure
Simple Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Check the Temperature Setting
Your water heater should be set to around 120°F. Higher temperatures can increase energy costs and put unnecessary strain on the system.
Flush the Tank Annually
Over time, sediment can build up inside the tank, especially in areas with hard water. Flushing the tank once a year helps remove buildup that can reduce efficiency and damage internal components.
Inspect for Leaks or Corrosion
Look around the base of the water heater and along connected pipes for moisture, rust, or corrosion. Early signs of leaking should never be ignored.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature. Testing it periodically helps ensure excess pressure can be released properly.
Signs Your Water Heater May Need Professional Service
While some maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, certain warning signs indicate it’s time to call a professional plumber:
Inconsistent or reduced hot water
Strange noises coming from the tank
Discolored or rusty water
Water pooling near the unit
If you notice any of these issues, prompt service can help prevent a full system failure.
Professional Water Heater Service in Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro
If your water heater isn’t performing as it should, Fitzpatrick Plumbing can help. Our team provides professional water heater maintenance, repair, and replacement services to keep your system running safely and efficiently.
Learn more about our water heater services here:
👉 https://www.fitzpatrickplumbingllc.com/water-heaters
Serving Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro
Fitzpatrick Plumbing proudly serves homeowners throughout Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro, including
Tonganoxie, Eudora, Baldwin City, Basehor, Shawnee, Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe, and more!
As a local plumbing company, we understand the plumbing systems commonly found in homes throughout this area and provide dependable, professional service.
Need Help with Your Water Heater?
If your water heater needs maintenance, repair, or replacement, Fitzpatrick Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced plumbers can assess your system and recommend the best solution for your home.
We can assist with:
Water heater maintenance
Water heater repairs
Water heater replacement
General plumbing services
Schedule service today:
👉 https://www.fitzpatrickplumbingllc.com/schedule-service
