Routine Maintenance

Routine Maintenance | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Charleston

From steamy Lowcountry summers to crisp coastal winters, Charleston homes rely on hot water day in and day out. HEP’s expert plumbers keep that comfort flowing with thorough, on-schedule service that extends the life of your tank water heater, boosts efficiency, and cuts surprise breakdowns. We flush sediment, inspect anode rods, test safety valves, and fine-tune settings—small, affordable steps that prevent big, expensive messes.

Our courteous, background-checked technicians arrive when promised, protect your floors, and explain every finding in plain English. Whether your unit is brand-new or nearing retirement, HEP’s routine maintenance preserves consistent temperature, lowers energy bills, and safeguards your warranty. Enjoy worry-free showers, spotless dishes, and peace of mind knowing Charleston’s most trusted plumbing team is only a quick call away.

FAQs

How often should I schedule routine maintenance for my tank water heater in Charleston?

Most manufacturers and local plumbing professionals recommend a full maintenance check once every 12 months. Charleston’s warm, humid climate can speed up corrosion, and its moderate-hard water leaves mineral deposits that build up faster than in softer-water regions. An annual service ensures sediment is removed, safety devices work properly, and small issues are caught before they become emergencies.

What does a professional water heater maintenance visit typically include?

A licensed plumber will: • Shut off power or gas and water supply for safety. • Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment. • Inspect and, if necessary, replace the anode rod that prevents corrosion. • Test the temperature-and-pressure (T&P) relief valve. • Check and adjust thermostat settings for optimal 120 °F operation. • Examine electrical connections or gas burner, venting, and pilot assembly. • Look for leaks, rust, or insulation damage around the tank and piping. • Verify expansion tank operation (required by Charleston code on many systems).

Why is flushing the tank important, and how does Charleston’s water quality affect it?

Charleston’s municipal water averages 7–10 grains per gallon of hardness. Heating that mineral-rich water causes calcium carbonate to fall out of solution and settle at the bottom of the tank. The sediment layer insulates the burner or elements, making them run longer and hotter, which accelerates metal fatigue and raises energy use. An annual flush removes the buildup, restores efficiency, and helps the tank last its full 10–12-year design life.

Can routine maintenance lower my energy bills?

Yes. A sediment-free tank transfers heat to water more efficiently, so the burner or heating elements run less. Studies show that a heavily scaled heater can waste 15 % or more energy compared with a clean one. During maintenance the plumber can also set the thermostat to 120 °F, install an insulating blanket if needed, and check for hot-water leaks—all of which trim monthly utility costs.

How do I know it’s time to replace my anode rod?

The anode rod is a sacrificial metal core that attracts corrosive elements to protect the steel tank. In Charleston’s warm climate, rods often erode in 3–5 years. Warning signs include rusty or metallic-smelling hot water, rumbling noises (from sediment binding with the spent rod), or visible corrosion at the hot-water outlet. During routine maintenance, a plumber will pull the rod: if more than 50 % is gone or the core wire is exposed, replacement is advised.

Is annual water heater maintenance required to keep my manufacturer warranty valid?

Most major brands—Rheem, Bradford White, A.O. Smith, and others—state in their warranty that “installation and service must be performed by a qualified professional” and that “annual inspection and flushing” are owner responsibilities. Failure to document yearly maintenance can give the manufacturer grounds to deny a parts or tank replacement claim. Keeping invoices from a licensed Charleston plumber protects both your heater and your warranty coverage.