When people think about water heaters they usually think “maintenance free”. They usually don’t think about performing any type of preventive maintenance. However, you can keep your water heater in top condition and make it last longer just by performing two little tasks every six months. All you need to do is test the pressure valve and flush the tank.

Testing the pressure release valve is important to make sure it is operating properly. If it is not, the tank can over pressurize and explode. Flushing the tank every six months is also very beneficial. Doing this will prevent sediment build up which will reduce your water heater’s energy efficiency and clog up your water lines. If you are unsure how to perform these steps, consult your owner’s manual.