Water Heater Maintenance
What Is Water Heater Maintenance and Why It Matters
Water heater maintenance is the professional inspection, cleaning, and tuning of your water heating system to ensure it runs safely, efficiently, and reliably. As part of your home’s plumbing system, the water heater must be properly maintained to produce consistent hot water, control energy use, and prevent premature failure.
Routine maintenance matters because tank water heaters accumulate sediment, pressure issues can develop, and components such as valves, thermostats, and heating elements wear over time. Without annual care, your system may produce less hot water, make loud noises, leak, or fail unexpectedly. Proper maintenance helps extend the life of your water heater, reduces energy costs, and protects your home from water damage or safety hazards.
Signs You Need Water Heater Maintenance
You may need water heater maintenance if you notice:
- Water not getting as hot as it used to
- Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds
- Fluctuating water temperatures
- Slow hot water recovery
- Rust-colored or cloudy water
- Higher-than-normal energy bills
- Water pooling near the unit
- Foul odors coming from hot water
- Low water pressure from hot taps
- Water heater hasn’t been serviced in 12+ months
Give us a call today to request an estimate or to book an immediate appointment for water heater maintenance with The Otter Guys.
Our Water Heater Maintenance Process
1. System Inspection
We examine the tank, heating elements, thermostat, pressure relief valve, and plumbing connections.
2. Sediment Flush & Cleaning
We drain the tank and remove sediment buildup to improve efficiency and heating performance.
3. Pressure Relief Valve Testing
We ensure the valve is functioning properly to prevent dangerous pressure buildup.
4. Anode Rod Inspection
We check and replace the anode rod if needed to prevent corrosion inside the tank.
5. Temperature & Safety Testing
We verify proper thermostat function, check for leaks, and ensure safe system operation.
6. Upfront Pricing & Recommendations
We provide clear pricing and explain any repairs or replacements needed.
Why Choose The Otter Guys for Water Heater Maintenance?
- Locally owned & operated, serving Charlottesville and Central Virginia with trusted plumbing expertise.
- Licensed, vetted plumbers experienced with all water heater brands and models.
- Upfront, transparent pricing. No hidden charges.
- Honest recommendations, with no unnecessary upselling.
- Fast, reliable scheduling, especially before peak seasonal use.
- High-quality workmanship, helping your system last longer and run more efficiently.
The Benefits of Professional Water Heater Maintenance
- Lower energy usage and utility bills
- Extended system lifespan
- Reduced risk of leaks and water damage
- Faster hot water recovery
- More consistent water temperature
- Quieter operation
- Cleaner, better-smelling hot water
- Improved safety and pressure control
- Fewer unexpected repairs
Frequently Asked Questions about Water Heater Maintenance
Once per year, especially for traditional tank water heaters.
Yes, flushing sediment and checking components can add years to your system’s lifespan.
Most appointments take 45–90 minutes, depending on the unit’s condition.
Sediment buildup is the most common cause, and a maintenance flush typically solves it.
Yes. Tankless units require descaling and professional inspection to maintain efficiency.
You can adjust temperature and check for leaks, but flushing the tank and inspecting components should be done by a professional.
Areas We Serve
Albemarle County
Charlottesville
Crozet
Culpeper
Earlysville
Fluvanna County
Goochland
Gordonsville
Greene County
Ivy
Keswick
Lake Anna
Lake Monticello
Madison
Mineral
Orange
Owensville
Palmyra
Rugby
Ruckersville
Scottsville
Staunton
Waynesboro
Zion Crossroads
Ready to schedule your water heater maintenance? Contact The Otter Guys today for expert service you can trust.