Your water heater works quietly in the background every day, but when it fails, it becomes an instant emergency that leads to cold showers, leaks, and unexpected repair bills. The good news? Most water-heater disasters are preventable with simple, routine maintenance.
How Often Should You Service A Water Heater?
Most manufacturers recommend a full water heater inspection once a year. This applies to both traditional tank heaters and tankless systems.
Annual service keeps the unit running safely, improves efficiency, and helps extend its lifespan, often by several years.
For homes with hard water (common throughout Nebraska), maintenance may need to happen every 6 months, especially for tankless models that build up mineral scale more quickly.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
- Prevents sudden breakdowns: Sediment buildup causes overheating, loud noises, and early failure.
- Keeps energy bills lower: A clean, efficient system uses less power to heat water.
- Extends the life of your heater: Annual flushing and tune-ups reduce wear and tear.
- Improves water quality: Less rust, less sediment, and fewer strange smells in your hot water.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Service Now
Even if it hasn’t been a year, call a professional if you notice:
- Fluctuating water temperature
- Strange rumbling or popping noises
- Rust-colored or cloudy water
- Water pooling near the tank
- Reduced hot-water supply
- An aging system (8-12+ years old)
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Keeping your water heater in good shape doesn’t take much, just one service visit per year can prevent cold showers, emergency calls, and expensive replacements. If it’s been a while since your last tune-up, now is the perfect time to schedule one and keep your home running smoothly.
Call Paul The Plumber Today
Don’t wait for your water heater to fail. Paul The Plumber offers fast, reliable maintenance, repairs, and replacements for homeowners across Omaha and the surrounding area. Call today to schedule your service and keep your water heater running like it should.