Check the temperature & pressure relief valve on the hot water heater (annually) to be sure the lever is functioning. Consult the operating manual for the procedure. If the valve does not work, have it replaced. (Note: Water will drain from the line linked to this valve. Have a bucket handy to catch it.) According to the Uniform Plumbing Code, a pipe should be connected to the pressure relief valve, extending down along the side of the tank to w/in 6 inches of the floor. This extension pipe prevents the spraying of hot water when the valve is released or if a malfunction occurs.

Open the drain valve at the hot water heater tank bottom & drain 1 or 2 gallons of water from the hot water heater to remove any sediment that may have accumulated in the tank bottom (semiannually; if drain water contains a high degree of sediment, drain more often). (Note: If this procedure is not done regularly, residual sediment particles may prevent the faucet valve from reseating properly upon closing & the valve washer may have to be replaced.)
Inspect the exhaust stack on gas & oil fired hot water heaters to ensure that all pipe connections are secure & free of rust, corrosion, & obstructions (annually). (Note: It is essential that fuel fired hot water heaters vent their gasses to the outside; escape of gasses inside the home could be lethal & pose a fire hazard.)

If insulation has been mounted on the exterior of the hot water heater tank, inspect it to ensure that the insulation remains in the proper position, noting particularly that it is not blocking the combustion air inlet or the exhaust vent of gas or oil fired units (quarterly).

Plumbing Tools & Materials • bucket • flashlight

Difficulty: beginner

Repair Time: 10min

Advice by Friendly Plumber ® • Wear rubber gloves & you may have to get a hose bib cap for the drain valve after you drain a little bit of water. the plastic valve sometimes leaks.

Check the temperature setting on the hot water heater. If it is above 120°F or 140°F, or if your automatic dishwasher does not have its own heating element, you are wasting energy & increasing your risk of getting scalded from hot water.

Check the temperature gauge on the boiler of your tankless water heater system (semiannually). Consult the operating instructions to determine the correct temperature setting.

Inspect the joints around the tankless hot water heater mounting plate (annually). If corroded or covered w/ mineral deposits, determine the cause of the leak & repair. It may be necessary to call Friendly Plumber for help on this item. If a gas or oil fired hot water heater is located in the garage, basement, or utility area, do not store gasoline in the same area. Gas fumes can build up & be ignited by the hot water heater pilot light flame.