So you’ve replaced your old water heater—congratulations! Whether you upgraded to a tankless, hybrid, or high-efficiency tank model, a new water heater is a smart investment in your home’s comfort, performance, and energy efficiency.
But like any major system, your water heater requires maintenance to continue running at its best. Fortunately, the steps are simple—and with regular care, you can avoid unnecessary repairs, lower your energy bills, and extend the life of your system by years.
At Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing, we don’t just install water heaters—we help Portland-area homeowners protect their investment with practical, seasonal maintenance. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your new system performing like new.
Why Maintenance Matters
Even the most advanced water heater will lose efficiency over time without care. Common issues that develop from neglect include:
- Sediment buildup inside the tank
- Corrosion of internal components
- Reduced heating efficiency and longer recovery times
- Noisy operation or unexpected shutdowns
- Shortened lifespan of 3–5 years or more
Regular maintenance helps prevent small issues from becoming expensive breakdowns—especially in areas like Gresham and Happy Valley, where mineral content in the water can speed up internal wear.
6 Essential Water Heater Maintenance Tips
1. Flush the Tank Annually (for Traditional Systems)
Sediment from your water supply can settle at the bottom of your tank, creating a layer that insulates the burner and forces the system to work harder. We recommend draining and flushing your tank once per year.
How to do it:
- Turn off power or gas to the unit
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve
- Flush out several gallons of water until it runs clear
- Refill and restore power
Don’t want to tackle this yourself? We offer annual flush services for Portland-area homeowners.
2. Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a critical component that protects the inside of your tank from rust. It attracts corrosion to itself instead of the tank walls—but it doesn’t last forever.
Check the anode rod every 2–3 years and replace it if it’s heavily corroded or worn down to less than half an inch in diameter.
3. Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (TPR)
This valve releases water if internal pressure or temperature gets too high. It’s a key safety feature, and it should be tested annually.
To test:
- Gently lift the valve’s handle and let it snap back
- You should hear a gurgle or see a small discharge
- If nothing happens or it leaks afterward, replace the valve
4. Keep the Area Around the Heater Clear
For both safety and performance, your water heater needs proper airflow. Avoid stacking items around the unit or blocking access to valves or controls—especially for gas-powered or hybrid models that need space for combustion and ventilation.
5. Set the Temperature Correctly
Your water heater should be set to 120°F—hot enough to prevent bacteria but cool enough to reduce energy waste and scalding risk. Some manufacturers default to higher settings, so it’s a good idea to check and adjust.
6. Schedule Professional Maintenance Every 1–2 Years
Even if you’re comfortable with basic care, a licensed plumber should inspect your system regularly. We check for:
- Gas or electrical issues
- Pressure imbalances
- Venting problems
- Warranty risks
- Performance optimization
Regular inspections are especially important if you’ve installed a tankless or hybrid model, which have sensors and components that benefit from professional calibration.
Protect Your Investment with Ongoing Care
A well-maintained water heater can last:
- 10–12 years for tank models
- 20+ years for tankless systems
- 13–15 years for hybrid units
Skipping maintenance can shorten those timelines dramatically and void your warranty—leaving you vulnerable to unexpected expenses.
We recommend setting a yearly reminder, or better yet, enroll in a plumbing maintenance plan with Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing to keep all your systems in check.
Just installed a new system? Explore long-term care tips and resources on our Water Heater Replacement page.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Happy Valley, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is here to keep your system running smoothly year after year. We offer full-service water heater maintenance, inspections, and repairs for all major models.
Contact us today to schedule your next water heater tune-up.