Water Heater
The water heater heats and stores water for daily use throughout the home. Keeping it maintained protects the tank from corrosion, sediment buildup, and pressure faults that shorten its life or compromise safety.
Water Heater Tasks
- Clean tankless water heater inlet filter
Once a year, shut off the cold water supply, unscrew the inlet filter, rinse the screen under running water, and reinstall.
- Flush and descale tankless water heater
Circulate white vinegar or a tankless-specific descaler through the heat exchanger for about an hour annually to clear mineral scale and prevent overheating shutdowns.
- Flush water heater
Once a year, turn off power or gas, attach a hose to the drain valve, and flush until water runs clear before refilling the tank.
- Lift and release water heater pressure relief valve
Once a year, place a bucket under the discharge pipe, lift the T&P valve lever for a few seconds, and release; water should flow then stop completely.
- Replace water heater anode rod
Every 5 years, shut off power and water, drain a few gallons, and swap the anode rod on top of the tank for a new aluminum or magnesium rod.
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