In this blog post, our professionals from Mr. Rooter Plumbing will walk you through five essential steps to boost your water heater’s efficiency, avoid frequent water heater repair, and get the most out of your investment.

Lower the Thermostat Setting

One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the efficiency of your water heater is by adjusting the thermostat. Many manufacturers set their units at 140 degrees Fahrenheit by default, but that’s often hotter than most households need. By turning the temperature down to 120 degrees, you’ll not only reduce the amount of energy the heater uses but also minimize the risk of scalding injuries. This slight adjustment can result in noticeable savings on your energy bill while extending the life of your unit by reducing wear and tear. If you’re unsure how to make this change safely, contacting a local professional or plumbing service is a smart move.

Flush the Tank Regularly

Over time, sediment builds up inside the water heater tank, especially if your home has hard water. This accumulation creates a layer that forces the unit to work harder to heat the water, reducing its efficiency and increasing the chances of breakdowns. Regularly flushing the tank ideally once or twice a year can remove this sediment and improve overall performance. Flushing is a relatively straightforward process, but it does involve handling hot water and valves, so it’s often best left to a plumbing service. Routine flushing not only improves efficiency but also helps avoid the need for costly water heater repair in the future.

Insulate the Heater and Pipes

Heat loss is another common issue that affects water heater efficiency. If your heater is located in a cool area like a basement or garage, it has to work harder to keep the water at the desired temperature. Wrapping the tank in a specially designed insulation blanket helps retain heat and reduce energy consumption. Likewise, insulating the hot water pipes connected to the heater can prevent heat from escaping as the water travels to its destination. This is a low-cost, high-impact upgrade that any professional plumber can handle quickly and efficiently, and it can lead to significant energy savings over time.

Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod is a critical component inside your water heater that attracts corrosive elements, protecting the tank from rust and deterioration. If this rod becomes too corroded, it can no longer do its job, and your tank will begin to break down from the inside out. A deteriorated anode rod leads to rusty water, foul odors, and ultimately major damage that requires expensive water heater repair—or even full replacement. Inspecting and replacing the anode rod every few years can greatly extend the life of your heater and keep it operating efficiently. Since accessing the anode rod can be tricky, it’s a task best performed by a licensed plumber.

Schedule Annual Maintenance

Just like a car needs regular tune-ups to run efficiently, your water heater also benefits from annual professional inspections. A qualified plumbing service can check for leaks, inspect connections, clean out sediment, test the thermostat, and ensure all components are working properly. These annual checkups are your best line of defense against unexpected breakdowns and high repair costs. By catching minor issues early, you can prevent them from turning into major problems that require urgent water heater repair. Regular maintenance keeps your water heater performing at its best and helps ensure your family always has reliable access to hot water.

Need a Reliable Company?

Are you in need of a plumber? Luckily, we at Mr. Rooter Plumbing have dedicated workers ready at your service. Contact our representatives for more questions.