Hot Water Heater Care 101: Keep Showers Steamy All Winter

When winter hits, a hot shower can be the best part of your day. But that warm comfort relies on a hardworking appliance that many homeowners ignore—your hot water heater. If it stops working, you’re left with freezing water and an unexpected repair bill. Taking care of your water heater before cold weather arrives can save you money, improve energy efficiency, and make sure you’re never stuck shivering under a cold stream.

This guide will walk you through how to maintain your hot water heater in simple steps. You’ll learn how to spot problems early, how to flush your water heater, when to adjust the temperature, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber. Whether you have a traditional tank or a tankless water heater, these tips will help you keep your system running smoothly all winter long.

1. Know Your Hot Water Heater Type

There are two common types of water heaters: tank and tankless. Tank water heaters store hot water in a cylinder, while tankless systems heat water on demand. Each type has different maintenance needs, but both require regular care to work efficiently.

Knowing which one you have is the first step. Look for a large cylinder if you have a tank system. If there’s no tank and the water heats as you use it, you have a tankless heater. This matters because the steps for flushing, temperature settings, and troubleshooting are different.

2. Check the Temperature Setting

Your water heater’s thermostat should be set to 120°F (49°C). This is hot enough to provide comfort and prevent bacteria from growing, but not so hot that it wastes energy or risks burns. Many heaters are set higher by default, which drives up your energy bills.

Lowering the temperature can also extend the life of your system. High temperatures put more pressure on the tank and its components. To adjust it, turn off the power (for electric units) or set the gas dial lower (for gas units). This small tweak can improve hot water heater efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

3. Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

Over time, sediment builds up in your tank, especially if you have hard water. This sediment can block heating elements, reduce capacity, and make your heater work harder. A yearly flush removes these deposits and helps your heater run better.

To flush a hot water heater:

• Turn off the power or gas supply.

• Shut off the cold water inlet.

• Connect a hose to the drain valve.

• Open the valve and let the tank empty.

• Once it’s drained, turn the water back on briefly to stir up and flush out any leftover sediment.

Make sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions. Tankless water heaters also need flushing, but they require a descaling solution to remove mineral buildup in the heating elements.

4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents your water heater from becoming over-pressurized. If it fails, your system could burst. Test this valve once a year.

To do this:

• Place a bucket under the valve.

• Gently lift the lever.

• Water should rush out and stop once you let go.

If it doesn’t release water or keeps leaking afterward, the valve may need to be replaced. Keeping this valve in good condition helps prevent serious water heater damage.

5. Insulate the Tank and Pipes

If you have an older tank water heater, insulating the tank and nearby pipes can reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency. This is especially important in cold basements or garages.

Use a water heater blanket made of insulation material, but keep it clear of the thermostat and burner area. Foam pipe insulation can be wrapped around the first few feet of hot and cold water pipes. This simple step can improve performance and reduce your heating bills in the winter.

6. Check for Leaks and Rust

Leaks, rust, or water stains around the base of your heater are signs of trouble. Small leaks can become big problems fast. Rust-colored water coming from the hot tap could mean the inside of the tank is corroding.

If you spot any of these issues, it’s time to call a licensed plumber. Catching problems early can save you from needing a full water heater replacement. If your unit is over 10 years old and showing signs of wear, it may be time to consider a new, energy-efficient water heater.

7. Know When to Call a Professional

Not all water heater problems can be fixed with basic maintenance. If you run out of hot water quickly, hear rumbling or popping noises, or notice inconsistent temperatures, something deeper may be wrong.

Calling a professional plumber ensures your water heater is diagnosed and repaired correctly. They can also check for code violations, ensure safe ventilation, and help you decide if a tankless water heater upgrade is right for your home.

8. Plan for Winter: Prevent Freezing Pipes

Even if your water heater is in great shape, your hot water can stop flowing if pipes freeze. Insulate pipes in cold areas and let a trickle of warm water run on freezing nights. Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around indoor pipes.

Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious damage. Keeping your water heater and plumbing protected from freezing is part of full winter prep.

9. Upgrade for Energy Efficiency

Modern water heaters are far more efficient than older models. If your unit is over a decade old, upgrading could lower your energy bills and provide more reliable hot water.

Look for ENERGY STAR® certified models that are built for high efficiency. A tankless water heater is a great option for small households or homes that use hot water on demand. Solar-powered and hybrid systems are also worth considering if you want to lower your environmental impact.

10. Stick to a Yearly Maintenance Schedule

Put a reminder on your calendar to check your hot water heater once a year—ideally in the fall before winter hits. This regular maintenance can add years to the life of your system and save you from emergency repairs.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Flush the tank

• Test the pressure relief valve

• Check for leaks or rust

• Adjust the temperature

• Insulate if needed

Simple habits like these will keep your hot water flowing strong all winter.

Taking care of your hot water heater doesn’t require advanced plumbing skills—just a little attention each year. With the right maintenance, you can avoid cold showers, save money, and extend the life of your system.

Don’t wait for a breakdown. Whether you have a tank or tankless system, use these winter water heater maintenance tips to stay warm and comfortable when it matters most.