Seasonal Spring Water Heater Maintenance you can DIY, or Call in a Pro!

When spring has sprung, it’s a great time to inspect your traditional tank water heater to ensure it, too, hasn’t sprung…a leak! 

It’s been working hard for you over the past winter months and periodic maintenance is essential to your water heater’s safe, efficient, and contamination-free operation.

At Ben Franklin Plumbing, we make seasonal inspections affordable and easy. However, for you DIY fans out there, we’ve compiled this list of 10 Essential Water Tank Seasonal Inspection Points.

Our professional, skilled plumbing technicians are standing by to assist with any or all of these steps and any repairs that come to light. Addressing them now will save from larger, costlier fixes down the road.

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIP!

Before starting any maintenance, safety is the number one priority. Always turn off the power to your water heater. For electric models, switch off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas-powered water heaters, turn off the gas supply valve and allow the system to cool before handling it.

Seasonal Water Heater Tank 10-Step Inspection Checklist:

  • 1. Check the Tank Exterior for Damage:  

Look for any visible damage or signs of leakage. Cracks or holes could allow contaminants to enter, while rust may weaken the material over time. If any significant damage is found, consider repairs or a replacement.

Tip: Ensure the tank is standing on a stable surface. If the tank is leaning or unstable, it may affect water flow and the integrity of the tank.

  • 2. Inspect the Tank Lid and Cover:

Check that the tank cover is intact and tightly sealed. A damaged or improperly sealed lid can let debris, insects, or animals enter the tank, contaminating the water. If there are any gaps, it’s important to reseal or replace the cover.

Tip: Consider installing a mesh screen on the cover to prevent leaves, insects, and larger debris from entering the tank.

  • 3. Examine the Tank Interior for Sediment Buildup:

Open the tank and visually inspect the interior. Look for signs of sediment buildup, algae, or biofilm growth. If there is a significant amount of sediment, the tank should be cleaned to prevent contamination and ensure proper water flow. (We discuss flushing your tank in more detail below).

Tip: If the tank is difficult to inspect internally, consider draining a small portion of water to check for sediment.

  • 4. Check for Algae Growth:

Check the walls, bottom, and water surface for algae growth. Algae can proliferate in warm, stagnant conditions, especially in tanks exposed to sunlight. If algae are found, clean the tank thoroughly with an appropriate non-toxic algaecide to reduce growth.

Tip: Consider installing a UV filtration system or a tank cover to limit sunlight exposure.

  • 5. Test Water Quality:

Use a water testing kit to check the water quality for contaminants such as bacteria, pH levels, chlorine, or other impurities. If necessary, send a sample of the water to a certified lab for further testing.

Tip: Testing is especially important if the tank holds water for drinking or irrigation. If any contaminants are detected, treat the water accordingly or clean the tank.

  • 6. Inspect the Inlet and Outlet Pipes:

Inspect both the inlet pipe (where water enters the tank) and the outlet pipe (where water is drawn for use). Look for blockages, leaks, or signs of damage. Clear any debris or obstructions that could hinder water flow, and repair or replace damaged pipes.

Tip: Ensure that the inlet is properly filtered to prevent debris from entering the tank.

  • 7. Examine the Overflow Pipe:

Check the overflow pipe for blockages. The overflow pipe ensures that excess water is safely diverted when the tank reaches its capacity. If it’s clogged or damaged, excess water could spill over or damage the tank.

Tip: Regularly clean the overflow pipe to prevent leaves, dirt, or other debris from blocking it.

  • 8. Check for Leaks:

Inspect the tank and all connecting pipes for signs of leaks. Look for wet spots around the base of the tank, along the pipes, or at valve connections. Leaks can lead to water loss and contamination, so repair them promptly.

Tip: If you find leaks at connection points, tightening the fittings may help, but significant leaks may require replacing parts of the plumbing or the tank itself.

  • 9. Inspect Valves and Filters:

Check the valve systems to ensure that they open and close properly without any leakage. Inspect any installed filters for clogging or wear and replace them as needed. Clogged filters can lead to poor water quality and reduced system efficiency.

Tip: If your water tank uses a filtration system, replace filters at the recommended intervals, and clean any pre-filters to maintain optimal performance.

  • 10. Monitor Tank Stability and Foundation:

Check the foundation of the tank, especially if it's an elevated or large tank. Look for signs of settling or instability, which could lead to structural problems. If the tank is sitting on a platform, ensure that the structure is stable and secure.

Tip: Over time, soil erosion or shifting can cause instability. If needed, reinforce the foundation or platform to prevent accidents.

Here are some additional seasonal inspection and maintenance items that, for most of these, we highly recommend you leave to a professional. If they are done improperly, they can cause hazards that may damage your water tank, or at worst, pose a serious or potentially fatal health risk.

  • Check the Temperature Setting

The recommended temperature setting for most water heaters is 120°F (49°C). If the temperature is set higher, it not only wastes energy but also poses a risk of scalding. During your spring maintenance, use a thermometer to check the water temperature at a faucet, adjusting the thermostat if needed. Lowering the setting can result in significant energy savings, reducing your utility bill over the coming months.

  • Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment Buildup

Sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the water heater tank over time, particularly in areas with hard water. These mineral deposits reduce the heater's efficiency by insulating the water from the heating elements or burner. The process of flushing the tank is simple and crucial for extending the life of your heater.

To flush your water heater:

  • Attach a hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of the tank.
  • Direct the hose into a bucket or floor drain.
  • Open the valve and allow the water to flow out. You may hear sputtering sounds as sediment is dislodged.
  • After about 10-15 minutes, close the valve and remove the hose.
  • Performing this procedure once or twice a year helps keep the tank clean and efficient.
  • Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod

An anode rod is a vital component in your water heater, preventing rust and corrosion inside the tank by attracting the minerals that cause deterioration. Over time, the anode rod can wear out, reducing its effectiveness. In many cases, this can lead to a faster rate of tank corrosion.

To check the condition of the anode rod:

  • Turn off the power and water supply.
  • Remove the rod from its housing (you may need a socket wrench for this).
  • Inspect the rod for signs of wear or corrosion. If the rod is thinner than 1/2 inch or covered with corrosion, it’s time to replace it.
  • Replacing the anode rod is an easy and cost-effective way to extend the life of your water heater.
  • Check the TPR Valve (Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve)

The Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve is a critical safety feature that helps prevent the tank from over-pressurizing or overheating. This valve automatically releases water if the temperature or pressure inside the tank exceeds safe limits. During your maintenance, check this valve for any leaks or signs of damage.

To test the TPR valve:

  • Lift the valve’s lever to allow some water to drain out.
  • If water flows freely, and the valve returns to its closed position without any issues, it is functioning correctly.
  • If the valve doesn’t drain water or leaks after testing, it should be replaced immediately.

Examine the Water Heater’s Insulation

Water heaters, especially older models, can lose heat due to poor insulation. In the spring, it’s a good time to inspect the insulation around your tank. If you notice that the insulation is damaged or missing, you can easily remedy this by installing a water heater blanket. These blankets are widely available at home improvement stores and can improve the energy efficiency of your heater, keeping your water warmer for longer and reducing the strain on the unit.

Check the Venting System (for Gas Water Heaters)

Gas water heaters require a venting system to safely expel combustion gases. Over time, vent pipes can become clogged with debris, birds’ nests, or even mold. In the spring, inspect the venting system to ensure it's clear and functioning properly. If you notice any obstructions, it’s a good idea to call a professional to inspect and clean the venting system to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

Let the insured, bonded, and certified professionals at Ben Franklin Plumbing address your plumbing concerns correctly, safely, and affordably the first time. We’ve been proudly serving customers in Charlotte and the surrounding area for decades, including Indian Trail, Concord, and Mooresville.

Visit http://www.benfranklinplumbing.com or call our 24/7 customer service line today (704) 802-1379.