Water Heaters 101: How to Keep Your Hot Water Flowing Smoothly

Few things are more frustrating than stepping into a cold shower or waiting endlessly for your water to heat up. Your water heater quietly works every day to keep your home comfortable — from showers and laundry to dishes and cleaning. But without regular maintenance, even the best systems can lose efficiency or break down unexpectedly.

At Prestige Plumbing Werks, we help Connecticut homeowners keep their hot water flowing year-round. Here’s what you need to know to keep your water heater in top shape — and what signs to watch for before trouble strikes.

Understanding Your Water Heater: The Basics

Most homes rely on one of two main types of systems:

1. Traditional Tank Water Heaters – These store hot water in a tank and continuously heat it, so it’s ready when you need it.

2. Tankless Water Heaters – These heat water on demand, offering energy efficiency and endless hot water when properly maintained.

   
   

Regardless of type, every water heater needs routine maintenance to remain efficient and safe.

Top Tips to Keep Your Hot Water Flowing Smoothly

1. Flush the Tank Annually

Over time, sediment from your water supply settles in the tank. This buildup reduces efficiency and can cause overheating, noise, or even premature failure. ➡️ Have your water heater flushed once a year to clear out sediment and improve performance.

2. Check the Temperature Setting

The ideal water heater temperature is around 120°F. Higher settings waste energy and increase the risk of scalding, while lower settings can promote bacterial growth.

3. Inspect the Anode Rod

This small metal rod prevents rust inside your tank. If it’s heavily corroded, it can no longer protect the interior. Replacing the anode rod every 3–5 years extends the life of your water heater.

4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

Your T&P valve (temperature and pressure relief valve) is a crucial safety feature. Lift and release the valve handle once a year — you should see water flow out briefly. If not, it may need to be replaced.

5. Insulate Pipes and Tank

Insulating hot water pipes — and older tanks — reduces heat loss and helps your system work more efficiently, especially during cold Connecticut winters.

6. Schedule a Professional Inspection

A trained plumber can catch minor issues before they become significant problems. At Prestige Plumbing Werks, we check for leaks, corrosion, thermostat calibration, and overall system performance during every inspection.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention

If you notice any of these red flags, it’s time to call a professional:

●     Lukewarm or inconsistent water temperature

●     Strange noises like popping or rumbling

●     Rusty or discolored water

●     Leaks or puddles near the unit

●     Water is taking longer than usual to heat up.

Ignoring these signs can lead to sudden breakdowns or costly replacements.

  

Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?

Most traditional water heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless systems can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is near the end of its lifespan, replacing it can actually save money in the long run by improving energy efficiency and reducing repair costs.

The experts at Prestige Plumbing Werks can help you determine whether a repair or replacement is best for your home — and provide honest, upfront pricing with no surprises.

Keep the Hot Water Flowing — Call Prestige Plumbing Werks Today!

Don’t wait for cold water to tell you something’s wrong! Routine maintenance is the easiest way to keep your water heater running efficiently, safely, and reliably.

Prestige Plumbing Werks proudly serves Burlington, Avon, Simsbury, and surrounding Connecticut communities with trusted, professional plumbing services — including water heater inspections, repairs, and installations.

📞 Call 959-590-8065 or visit www.prestigeplumbingwerks.com to schedule your Water Heater Tune-Up today!