Regular maintenance extends your water heater's life, improves efficiency, and prevents costly repairs. This comprehensive checklist helps Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and Daniel Island homeowners keep their water heaters in top condition.
Why Maintenance Matters
Without Maintenance:
- Tank water heaters: 8-10 year lifespan
- Tankless water heaters: 12-15 year lifespan
- Higher energy bills
- Increased repair costs
- Risk of unexpected failure
With Annual Maintenance:
- Tank water heaters: 12-15 year lifespan
- Tankless water heaters: 20+ year lifespan
- Optimal efficiency
- Fewer repairs
- Predictable performance
Tank Water Heater Maintenance Checklist
Monthly Tasks (5 minutes)
☐ Visual Inspection
- Check for water around the base
- Look for rust or corrosion on tank
- Verify no unusual sounds during operation
- Ensure area around water heater is clear
☐ Temperature Check
- Test hot water at a faucet
- Should reach comfortable temperature quickly
- Note any changes in performance
Quarterly Tasks (15 minutes)
☐ Test T&P (Temperature and Pressure) Valve
- Place a bucket under the discharge pipe
- Lift the lever for 2-3 seconds
- Water should flow freely
- Lever should snap back and seal
- If it continues dripping or won't seal, replace valve
☐ Inspect for Leaks
- Check all connections and fittings
- Look at T&P valve and discharge pipe
- Check drain valve
- Inspect supply lines
Annual Tasks (Professional Recommended)
☐ Flush the Tank Removes sediment that reduces efficiency and capacity.
DIY Method:
- Turn off power (breaker for electric, gas valve for gas)
- Connect garden hose to drain valve
- Open drain valve and a hot water faucet
- Drain until water runs clear
- Close drain valve, remove hose
- Restore power and let tank refill
Cost for professional service: $100-$200
☐ Inspect Anode Rod The anode rod protects your tank from corrosion.
What to look for:
- Less than 1/2" diameter = replace
- Heavy calcium coating = replace
- Exposed core wire = replace
Cost for professional inspection and replacement: $150-$250
☐ Check Thermostat
- Verify setting (should be 120°F)
- Test water temperature at faucet
- Electric units: Check both thermostats
☐ Inspect Venting (Gas Units)
- Check for blockages or damage
- Ensure proper draft
- Look for corrosion
- Verify connections are secure
☐ Clean Burner/Flame Sensor (Gas Units)
- Inspect burner for debris
- Clean flame sensor if present
- Check pilot light appearance (should be blue)
☐ Inspect Electrical Connections (Electric Units)
- Check for loose connections
- Look for corrosion
- Verify proper grounding
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Checklist
Monthly Tasks (5 minutes)
☐ Check for Error Codes
- Look at display panel
- Note any warning lights
- Record any error codes
☐ Visual Inspection
- Check for water leaks
- Ensure vents are unobstructed
- Verify proper ventilation around unit
Quarterly Tasks (15 minutes)
☐ Clean Air Intake Filter
- Locate filter (usually bottom or side)
- Remove and rinse with water
- Let dry completely
- Reinstall
☐ Check Water Filter (If Equipped)
- Locate inline water filter
- Inspect for debris
- Clean or replace as needed
Annual Tasks (Professional Recommended)
☐ Descale/Flush the System Critical for removing mineral buildup in the heat exchanger.
Professional Method:
- Close isolation valves
- Connect descaling pump
- Circulate descaling solution (30-60 minutes)
- Flush with clean water
- Restore normal operation
Cost for professional service: $150-$300
☐ Inspect Heat Exchanger
- Check for scale buildup
- Look for damage or corrosion
- Verify proper operation
☐ Test Safety Systems
- High-limit switch
- Flame sensor
- Gas valve operation
- Overheat protection
☐ Inspect Venting
- Check for blockages
- Verify proper connections
- Look for corrosion or damage
- Test for proper draft
☐ Update Firmware (If Applicable) Some smart tankless units have firmware updates that improve performance or add features.
Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater Checklist
Monthly Tasks
☐ Check Air Filter Heat pump units need good airflow. Clean or replace filter monthly.
☐ Inspect Condensate Drain Ensure drain isn't clogged. Clear any blockages.
☐ Verify Adequate Clearance Maintain recommended clearance around unit for airflow.
Annual Tasks
☐ Flush Tank Same as standard tank water heater.
☐ Clean Evaporator Coils Gently clean coils with soft brush or vacuum.
☐ Check Refrigerant System Professional inspection of heat pump components.
☐ Inspect Electrical Components Check connections, controls, and sensors.
Seasonal Considerations for Charleston
Spring Maintenance
After winter heating season:
- Full inspection recommended
- Good time for annual flush
- Check anode rod
Before Hurricane Season (June)
- Know how to shut off water heater
- Secure loose items nearby
- Consider elevation in flood-prone areas
Fall Tune-Up
Before winter:
- Verify efficient operation
- Address any issues before cold weather
- Check insulation on pipes
Maintenance Schedule Summary
| Task | Tank | Tankless | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Monthly | Monthly | Monthly |
| T&P valve test | Quarterly | N/A | Quarterly |
| Air filter clean | N/A | Quarterly | Monthly |
| Tank flush | Annual | N/A | Annual |
| Descaling | N/A | Annual | N/A |
| Anode rod check | Every 2-3 years | N/A | Every 2-3 years |
| Professional service | Annual | Annual | Annual |
When to Call a Professional
Some maintenance tasks are best left to professionals:
Always Call For:
- Gas valve or burner issues
- Electrical problems
- Anode rod replacement
- Complex descaling
- Any safety concerns
Consider Professional Service For:
- Tank flushing (if uncomfortable with DIY)
- Annual comprehensive inspection
- Warranty-required maintenance
Maintenance Records
Keep records of all maintenance:
Document:
- Date of service
- Tasks performed
- Parts replaced
- Service provider
- Next maintenance due
Why It Matters:
- Warranty compliance
- Resale value
- Tracking water heater health
- Predicting replacement timing
Service Areas
Water Heater Doctors provides professional maintenance throughout the Charleston Lowcountry:
Mount Pleasant - All neighborhoods. Daniel Island - Residential and commercial. Charleston - Downtown, West Ashley, James Island. Sullivan's Island - Full service. Isle of Palms - Including Wild Dunes.
FAQ: Water Heater Maintenance
How much does annual maintenance cost? Professional service typically runs $100-$200 for tank water heaters, $150-$300 for tankless.
Can I do maintenance myself? Basic tasks like T&P valve testing and visual inspections are DIY-friendly. Tank flushing and descaling are better left to professionals.
What happens if I skip maintenance? Shortened lifespan, reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and increased risk of failure.
How often should I flush my water heater? Annually for most Charleston area homes. Every 6 months for heavy use or hard water.
Is maintenance required for warranty coverage? Many manufacturers require documented annual maintenance. Check your warranty terms.
Ready to schedule your annual water heater maintenance? Water Heater Doctors provides comprehensive service throughout Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Daniel Island, Sullivan's Island, and Isle of Palms. Call (843) 990-6524 to book your tune-up.