Water Heaters
Your water heater provides hot water for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. Whether you have an electric or gas unit, regular maintenance extends its life and keeps it running efficiently.
If you smell gas, leave the home immediately and call the gas company. Do not flip switches or create sparks.
Identify Your Water Heater Type
| Type | Characteristics | Key Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | No pilot light, breaker controls power | Check breaker, annual tank drain |
| Gas | Pilot light (some models), gas line connection | Check pilot, keep area dust-free |
Routine Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Drain tank to remove sediment | Annually | Both |
| Test pressure relief valve | Annually | Both |
| Check temperature setting | As needed | Both |
| Vacuum around unit | Quarterly | Gas (dust affects combustion) |
| Check pilot light | As needed | Gas (if applicable) |
| Clean heating elements | Per manufacturer | Electric |
Draining the Tank (Annual)
Draining removes sediment buildup from the bottom of the tank.
Benefits:
- Prolongs tank life
- Improves efficiency
- Saves energy
- Reduces noise from sediment
Process: Follow manufacturer's timetable and instructions carefully.
Also drain if: Shutting down during freezing temperatures or extended absence.
Testing Pressure Relief Valve (Annual)
The pressure relief valve is a safety device. Test at least once per year.
Stay clear of the discharge line when testing - hot water will release.
See manufacturer's literature for detailed instructions.
Element Cleaning (Electric)
Heating elements require periodic cleaning. Frequency depends on your water quality (mineral content).
Refer to manufacturer's literature for step-by-step instructions, or contact an authorized service company.
Keeping Area Clean (Gas)
- Vacuum around water heater regularly
- Dust can interfere with proper flame combustion
- Never store items on or around the heater
- Don't use the top as a storage shelf
- Ensure proper ventilation around unit
Temperature Settings
Electric Water Heaters
| Setting | Approximate Temperature |
|---|---|
| Hot | 120°F |
| A | 130°F |
| B | 140°F |
| C | 150°F |
| Very Hot | 160°F |
Gas Water Heaters
The recommended setting for normal use is "Normal" (typically around 120°F).
Recommendations
- 120°F is typically sufficient for most households
- Check dishwasher requirements (some need 140°F)
- Higher settings waste energy
- Higher settings increase scalding risk
- Hot water takes longer to reach distant fixtures
Troubleshooting
No Hot Water (Electric)
- Check breaker - Water heater breaker on main panel must be ON
- If tripped: turn fully OFF first, then back ON
- Check temperature setting - Not on "vacation mode" or too low
- Check water supply valve - Must be OPEN
- Wait - Recovery time after heavy use is normal
Refer to manufacturer's literature for additional troubleshooting.
No Hot Water (Gas)
- Check pilot light - If your unit has a standing pilot, confirm it's lit
- Relighting instructions are on the side of the tank
- Check temperature setting - Not on "vacation" or too low
- Check water supply valve - Must be OPEN
- Check gas supply - Valve should be open
Many newer gas water heaters have electronic ignition rather than a standing pilot light. Check your unit's documentation.
Not Enough Hot Water
- Check temperature setting - May be too low
- Consider usage - Multiple showers, laundry, dishwasher running simultaneously
- Check for leaks - Hot water leaks waste capacity
- Sediment buildup - May need tank draining
- Recovery time - Tank needs time to reheat after heavy use
Strange Noises
- Popping/rumbling - Often sediment buildup; drain tank
- Sizzling (gas) - Condensation on burner (normal for new units)
- Whining (electric) - May indicate element issue
Water Too Hot
- Check setting - Lower temperature
- Test at faucet - Use thermometer to verify actual temperature
- Faulty thermostat - May need professional service if setting doesn't match output
Safety Guidelines
| Safety Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Clearance | Keep area clear of stored items |
| Storage | Never use top as a shelf |
| Combustibles | Keep away from gas units |
| CO detectors | Have working detectors near gas units |
| Know shut-offs | Both water and gas (for gas units) |
| Ventilation | Ensure adequate airflow around gas units |
Extended Absence
When leaving for extended periods:
If Keeping Tank Full
- Set to "vacation" mode or lowest setting
- Keep pilot on (gas) to prevent issues
If Draining Tank
- Follow manufacturer's draining instructions
- Turn off power (breaker for electric, gas valve for gas)
- Open hot water faucets to relieve pressure
- Recommended if freezing temperatures possible
What to Avoid
- Don't set temperature too high - Scalding risk and wasted energy
- Don't skip annual maintenance - Shortens equipment life significantly
- Don't ignore strange noises - Often indicates needed maintenance
- Don't store items around unit - Safety hazard, especially gas units
- Don't block ventilation - Gas units need airflow for safe operation
- Don't ignore leaks - Small leaks become big problems
New Water Heater Notes
Gas Units - Condensation
New gas water heaters may have condensation inside that drips onto the burner flame.
- This causes no harm
- Usually disappears within a short time
- Part of the normal break-in period
Warranty Information
Water heaters are classified as an appliance/consumer product.
- Classic Homes coverage: First year only (installation defects)
- Extended coverage: Refer to manufacturer's warranty
- Keep documentation: Registration and purchase records
Register your water heater with the manufacturer to ensure warranty coverage after the first year.
Related Topics
Warranty Coverage: See Electric Water Heater Standards and Gas Water Heater Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.