Water Heater Services in Ann Arbor, MI

Water heaters require several essential maintenance procedures for optimal performance and longevity. Most important is regular flushing to remove sediment buildup, which causes inefficiency and tank damage. Annual professional maintenance for Ann Arbor water heaters typically includes inspection of the anode rod (which prevents tank corrosion), testing of the temperature-pressure relief valve, checking electrical or gas connections, inspecting heating elements or burners, and verifying proper temperature settings. These procedures prevent premature failure while maintaining energy efficiency and safe operation.

For Ann Arbor homeowners, we recommend professional water heater maintenance at least once annually. Homes with hard water conditions, higher usage patterns, or older equipment may benefit from service twice yearly. Regular maintenance significantly extends equipment life—properly maintained water heaters typically last 3-5 years longer than neglected units. Many manufacturers also require documented annual maintenance to maintain warranty coverage. Between professional services, homeowners should check for leaks monthly and flush the tank briefly every 3-4 months to reduce sediment accumulation.

While homeowners can perform basic water heater flushing, the procedure requires certain precautions. You’ll need to shut off power or gas supply, close the cold water inlet valve, connect a garden hose to the drain valve, and direct it to a suitable drainage location. The process typically takes 30-60 minutes and may require multiple draining cycles for heavily sedimented tanks. However, many Ann Arbor homeowners prefer professional service because technicians have specialized tools to break up stubborn sediment, can identify developing problems, and know how to restart the system safely without damaging heating elements.

In Ann Arbor’s moderate-to-hard water conditions, water heaters should be flushed every 6-12 months, with older units or those with significant sediment buildup needing more frequent attention. Signs indicating your tank needs flushing include rumbling noises during heating cycles, decreasing hot water output, longer heating times, or fluctuating water temperatures. During professional maintenance, our technicians can assess sediment levels and recommend appropriate flushing intervals based on your specific water conditions and unit performance.

Water heaters typically fail due to several preventable factors. Sediment accumulation causes overheating that cracks tank linings and damages heating elements. Corrosion accelerates when anode rods are depleted and not replaced. Excessive pressure from improper temperature settings or faulty relief valves can cause tank ruptures. Electrical issues like failed thermostats or heating elements affect electric models, while pilot problems or gas control valve failures impact gas units. With proper maintenance, most Ann Arbor homeowners can avoid these common failure causes and significantly extend their water heater’s useful life.

Warning signs of impending water heater failure include: water appearing rusty or cloudy; metallic taste or smell in hot water; decreasing hot water volume; unusual noises during operation; water pooling near the unit; visible rust on tank exterior; or age exceeding 10-12 years with minimal maintenance. If you notice these symptoms in your Ann Arbor home, schedule professional inspection immediately. Addressing problems early typically allows for less expensive repairs and helps avoid the inconvenience and potential water damage associated with complete system failure.