How to Maintain Your Water Heater Year-Round in Johnsburg, IL

Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters

Failing to maintain your water heater can lead to:

• Reduced efficiency and higher energy bills

• Sediment buildup and corrosion

• Poor water quality

• Shortened lifespan of the unit

• Costly emergency repairs or full replacements

With a few simple checks each season, you can avoid these problems and stay ahead of issues before they escalate.

Seasonal Water Heater Maintenance Checklist

✅ Spring: Flush and Inspect

After a long winter, spring is the ideal time to give your water heater a reset.

Tasks to complete:

• Turn off the unit (electric or gas)

• Drain a few gallons from the tank to remove sediment

• Inspect for rust or corrosion on tank and connections

• Check the temperature setting (120°F is ideal)

👉 Affordable Plumbing Pros can handle a full flush for you, safely and cleanly.

✅ Summer: Test the T&P Valve

The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a critical safety component.

Tasks to complete:

• Lift the valve’s handle slightly and let it snap back

• You should hear a quick burst of water

• If nothing happens or it leaks, call a professional

✅ Fall: Inspect Anode Rod & Insulate

Preparing for Johnsburg’s cold winter starts in fall.

Tasks to complete:

• Inspect or replace the anode rod (prevents corrosion)

• Wrap insulation around the tank and exposed pipes

• Check for gas leaks if your system is gas-powered

Unsure how to access the anode rod? Let our techs handle it.

✅ Winter: Monitor for Cold Weather Stress

Freezing temps can put your system at risk.

Tasks to complete:

• Listen for popping or banging

• Check nearby pipes for freezing

• Avoid cranking the temp too high

• Watch for lukewarm or inconsistent hot water

📞 Contact us immediately for winter water heater service.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs a Pro

• Rust-colored water

• No hot water or fluctuating temps

• Leaks at the base of the tank

• Banging or whining sounds

• Water taking too long to heat

Don’t wait—Affordable Plumbing Pros can troubleshoot and repair your system quickly.

Tank vs. Tankless: Maintenance Differences

Tank Heaters

• Flush yearly to prevent sediment buildup

• Replace anode rod every 3–5 years

• Monitor for rust or corrosion

Tankless Heaters

• Descale every 6–12 months

• Clean filters and venting system

• Monitor hard water levels (consider a softener)

Not sure which you have? We’ll inspect your setup and recommend a care plan.

Water Heater Lifespan

• Tank-Style: 8–12 years

• Tankless: 15–20 years

Routine maintenance can extend your system’s life and reduce the chances of sudden breakdowns.

Should You DIY or Call a Pro?

• Adjusting the thermostat:
  ✅ DIY-Friendly – Use your water heater’s control panel to set the temp to around 120°F.

• Partial tank draining (to remove sediment):
  ✅ DIY-Friendly – Drain a few gallons using the tank's valve and a bucket.

• Full tank flush:
  ⚠️ Sometimes DIY – You can do it if you're experienced, but it can get messy.
  ✅ Recommended: Call a Pro for a full system flush.

• Anode rod inspection/replacement:
  ❌ Not DIY-Friendly – Requires disassembly and proper torque tools.
  ✅ Call a Pro.

• Descaling a tankless water heater:
  ❌ Not DIY-Friendly – Involves specific tools and chemicals.
  ✅ Call a Pro.

• Leak detection or standing water near the unit:
  ❌ Not DIY-Friendly – Can indicate serious internal issues.
  ✅ Call a Pro immediately.

👉 Not sure what’s safe to handle? Contact Affordable Plumbing Pros for quick advice or service.

Expert Water Heater Service in Johnsburg, IL

We provide:

• Annual maintenance and inspections

• Emergency repairs

• New water heater installation

• Tankless upgrades

🏡 Serving Johnsburg, IL and nearby areas, Affordable Plumbing Pros is your local solution for year-round plumbing peace of mind.

Ready to Protect Your Water Heater?

📅 Schedule maintenance today
📞 Call 847-833-9338