Hot water heaters require routine maintenance in order to function properly. This includes draining the tank and removing sediment, checking the anode rod, and tightening any loose drain valves. If your water heater is leaking, it may be due to a loose drain valve. Preventative maintenance on a hot water heater should include checking and changing anodes, flushing sediment, testing and changing temperature/pressure relief valves and such. It used to be that preventive maintenance meant anodes and sediment. These days, there is a more basic task that needs to be done regularly, and most people don't yet realize it. The basic task that needs to be done regularly is checking the water heater's temperature. You can do this by feeling the outside of the tank. If it feels hot, the water inside is too hot and could cause damage or scalding. You can adjust the temperature by turning the thermostat to a lower setting.
In terms of repairs and maintenance, most professionals suggest having your water heater flushed out at least once every year. The tank will be emptied out through a hose, and then refilled with clean water. This helps remove any sediment or dirt that may have built up inside the tank, and can help extend the life of your water heater. If not regularly flushed, your water heater can corrode more quickly. The sediment can also block the passages that allow water to flow in and out of the tank, or it can clog the pressure and relief valve (which helps keep your water heater from exploding).
Most water heater manufacturers will recommend inspecting the condition of the sacrificial anode every one (1) to three (3) years and replacing it when it appears to be consumed. This is especially true if you have hard water or use a water softener. The best way to extend the life of your water heater is to be familiar with the maintenance schedule and to follow it. You should test the temperature relief valve at least once a year, flush the water heater every 4 months, and clean the tank once a year. You should also replace the anode rod every 2-5 years. For gas water heaters, you should check the burner every year.
In terms of repairs and maintenance, most professionals suggest having your water heater flushed out at least once every year. The tank will be emptied out through a hose, and then refilled with clean water. This helps remove any sediment or dirt that may have built up inside the tank, and can help extend the life of your water heater. If not regularly flushed, your water heater can corrode more quickly. The sediment can also block the passages that allow water to flow in and out of the tank, or it can clog the pressure and relief valve (which helps keep your water heater from exploding).
Most water heater manufacturers will recommend inspecting the condition of the sacrificial anode every one (1) to three (3) years and replacing it when it appears to be consumed. This is especially true if you have hard water or use a water softener. The best way to extend the life of your water heater is to be familiar with the maintenance schedule and to follow it. You should test the temperature relief valve at least once a year, flush the water heater every 4 months, and clean the tank once a year. You should also replace the anode rod every 2-5 years. For gas water heaters, you should check the burner every year.