Routine Maintenance
Routine Maintenance | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Jefferson City
There’s nothing like stepping into a steamy shower or rinsing dishes in reliably hot water—until sediment buildup, worn anode rods, or sneaky leaks decide to interrupt the comfort your tank water heater provides. HEP’s routine maintenance plumbing service in Jefferson City is designed to catch those problems before they turn into cold surprises. Our licensed technicians flush the tank, inspect valves, test safety mechanisms, and fine-tune temperature settings so you get maximum efficiency and lower utility bills year-round.
Jefferson City homeowners count on HEP because we show up on time, respect your space, and explain every finding in plain language. A quick annual visit preserves the manufacturer’s warranty, extends system life, and protects your family from unexpected breakdowns—saving you money and stress. Schedule today and keep your tank water heater delivering dependable, energy-smart comfort when you need it most.
FAQs
Why is routine maintenance important for my tank-style water heater?
Sediment, especially the calcium and magnesium found in Jefferson City’s hard water, settles at the bottom of the tank over time. This layer forces the burner or elements to work harder, shortens the life of the tank lining, and can even clog the T&P relief valve. Annual maintenance flushes out this buildup, protects the glass liner from cracking, maintains full storage capacity, and helps you avoid emergency leaks or premature replacement.
How often should I schedule water-heater maintenance in Jefferson City’s climate?
For most homeowners we recommend a full service once every 12 months. If your household uses a water-softener or has unusually high hot-water demand (large family, soaking tubs, etc.), the interval can stretch to every 18–24 months. Rental properties, salons, and commercial sites should schedule service every six months because of the heavier usage and stricter code requirements.
What does a professional maintenance visit typically include?
Our licensed plumber will: 1) shut off power or gas and water supply; 2) drain several gallons to loosen sediment, then perform a full flush if buildup is heavy; 3) inspect and test the temperature-and-pressure relief valve; 4) examine the sacrificial anode rod and replace it if more than 50 % of the core wire is exposed; 5) check burner flames, venting, and gas pressures on gas models or element resistance on electric models; 6) verify thermostat settings; 7) inspect for leaks or corrosion at nipples, shut-off valves, and expansion tank; and 8) document findings so you have a maintenance record for warranty purposes.
Can routine maintenance actually lower my energy bills?
Yes. A ½-inch layer of sediment can increase energy use by 15–20 %. By flushing the tank and adjusting the thermostat to the optimal 120 °F setting, we remove the insulating sediment blanket and prevent overheating. The anode-rod replacement also reduces corrosion, which helps the heater maintain efficiency instead of struggling to heat through rust and scale.
How will I know if my tank water heater needs repair instead of just routine service?
Warning signs include: rusty or brown hot water, rumbling or popping noises after a flush, water pooling around the base of the tank, a T&P valve that drips continually, and hot-water shortages that develop rapidly. During maintenance we perform diagnostic checks; if we detect a leaking tank seam, failed heating element, or severe flue corrosion, we’ll recommend repair or replacement instead of continuing with normal service.
Is there anything I should do between professional maintenance visits?
Yes—every homeowner can: (1) test the T&P valve quarterly by briefly lifting the lever to ensure water flows and reseats; (2) set the thermostat to 120 °F to prevent scalding and reduce mineral precipitation; (3) visually inspect for drips at the drain valve and supply lines; (4) keep the area around the heater clear of boxes or flammables; and (5) install or maintain a whole-house water-softener if you have very hard water. These small steps complement our annual service and maximize the lifespan of your tank water heater.