Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Save Money on Energy Bills

Your water heater works quietly in the background, delivering hot showers, warm water for laundry, and comfort during Portland’s chilly months. But without proper maintenance, it can become one of the biggest energy drains in your home. By taking care of your water heater, you can extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and save on your monthly utility bills. Whether you already have a unit or are considering a new water heater installation in Portland, these tips will help you get the most out of your investment.

1. Flush Your Water Heater Annually

Over time, sediment from Portland’s water supply can build up at the bottom of your tank. This layer forces your water heater to work harder to heat the water, increasing energy costs and putting stress on the unit.

Tip: Once a year, drain a few gallons from the tank or flush it completely to remove sediment buildup. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a professional plumber in Portland can perform the service quickly and safely.

2. Check the Temperature Setting

Many water heaters are set at 140°F by default, but this is often hotter than necessary for most households. Lowering the temperature to 120°F not only reduces your energy usage but also helps prevent scalding accidents.

Pro Tip: Adjusting your thermostat can save up to 5% on your water heating costs for every 10 degrees lowered.

3. Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod

The anode rod is a metal component inside your water heater that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank from rusting. If it deteriorates completely, the tank can corrode, leading to leaks and costly replacements.

Recommendation: Have your anode rod inspected every 2–3 years. A plumber in Portland can replace it if necessary—far cheaper than installing a whole new unit.

4. Insulate Your Tank and Pipes

If you have a traditional water heater in Portland, insulating it can help reduce standby heat loss. This means your water heater doesn’t have to work as hard to keep water hot when not in use.

Action Step: Use a water heater blanket for the tank and foam sleeves for the first few feet of hot water pipes. This small investment can noticeably cut energy costs.

5. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents excessive pressure from building inside your tank. If it’s faulty, your system may operate inefficiently—or dangerously.

To test it, carefully lift the lever and let some water flow out. If water continues running after you release it, or if nothing happens at all, contact a Portland plumber to have it replaced immediately.

6. Schedule Professional Maintenance

While DIY maintenance can go a long way, having your system inspected by a professional ensures every part of your water heater is working at peak performance.

Water heater maintenance in Portland often includes checking for leaks, testing the thermostat, cleaning components, and ensuring your system meets local safety codes. Annual service visits are especially important for older units.

7. Upgrade to a More Efficient Unit

If your water heater is over 10 years old, you might be spending more on energy than you realize. Modern models—especially tankless water heaters—are far more efficient and take up less space.

Water heater installation in Portland is a smart investment when repair costs are piling up or your system is no longer meeting your household needs. A qualified plumber can help you choose the right size and style for your home.

Conclusion

Water heater maintenance is more than just preventing breakdowns—it’s about improving energy efficiency, lowering monthly bills, and ensuring your family always has reliable hot water. With a few simple steps, such as flushing the tank, adjusting the temperature, and scheduling regular inspections, you can extend the life of your unit and keep costs under control.

If you’re looking for expert water heater maintenance in Portland or are ready for a new water heater installation in Portland, our team is here to help. As an experienced plumber in Portland, we provide fast, reliable service to keep your home running smoothly.

Contact us today to schedule your next water heater inspection and start saving on your energy bills.

FAQs

1. How often should I flush my water heater in Portland?

You should flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment buildup from Portland’s water supply. This improves energy efficiency and extends the life of your unit. If you're unsure how to do it safely, a professional plumber in Portland can help.

2. What temperature should I set my water heater to?

A safe and efficient setting for most households is 120°F. This reduces the risk of scalding and can lower your water heating costs by up to 5% for every 10 degrees lowered from the default 140°F setting.

3. What does the anode rod do, and how often should it be replaced?

The anode rod attracts corrosive minerals in the water, protecting your tank from rust. It should be inspected every 2–3 years and replaced if significantly corroded. Replacing it is far cheaper than replacing the entire water heater.

4. When should I consider replacing my water heater?

If your water heater is 10 years or older, requires frequent repairs, or no longer meets your household’s hot water needs, it may be time to upgrade. Newer, energy-efficient models—like tankless systems—can save space and reduce utility bills.

5. Do I really need professional water heater maintenance?

Yes. While DIY steps help, annual professional maintenance ensures your water heater is running safely and efficiently. A plumber in Portland can check for leaks, inspect safety features, clean components, and make sure your system complies with local codes.

Pilot Plumbing and Drain

12323 NE 99th St #123, Vancouver, WA 98682, United States

(360) 768-0141