Water Heater Maintenance: Annual Checklist and How to Drain It (2026 Schedule)

A water heater that gets yearly maintenance lasts 12-15 years. Skip it, and 6-8 is typical.

Schedule at a glance

Frequency	What to do
Every 6 months	Test the temperature/pressure relief (TPR) valve
Every 12 months	Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment
Every 2-3 years	Inspect the anode rod and replace if more than 50% corroded
Every 5 years	Replace the anode rod regardless of condition
Every 5 years	Inspect and replace the heating element (electric models) or burner assembly (gas)

How to do it

Annual flush — turn off power (electric) or set gas to pilot (gas).
Turn off the cold water inlet at the top of the tank.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Route the hose to a floor drain, outside, or a large bucket.
Open the TPR valve at the top of the tank to break the vacuum, then open the drain valve.
Let the tank drain completely (15-30 minutes). The water will look brown if there's heavy sediment.
Briefly open the cold water inlet to flush remaining sediment — close once water runs clear.
Close the drain valve, refill the tank (cold inlet open), then close the TPR valve once water exits it steadily.
Restore power / gas and wait 30-60 minutes for hot water to return.

Signs you're overdue

Popping or rumbling sounds during heating (sediment buildup)
Water heater takes much longer than usual to reheat
Rusty or discolored hot water (corroded anode rod or tank)
Hot water has a rotten-egg smell (bacterial growth in the tank)
Visible water around the base of the tank
Energy bill has crept up 20%+ over the last 12 months

What it costs

Annual flush: free if you DIY. Anode rod: $20-$50 part, $200-$400 with plumber. Replacement TPR valve: $20-$40. Tankless descaling kit: $40-$80.

FAQ

Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?

Yes. Tankless units need yearly descaling (flushing with vinegar or descaling solution) to remove mineral buildup. In hard water areas, every 6 months. Without descaling, lifespan drops from 20 years to 8-10.

How do I know if my anode rod needs replacement?

Drain a few gallons to lower the water level below the rod, then unscrew the top hex bolt. Pull the rod out — if there's more than 50% of original thickness remaining and no full sections of bare steel core showing, it's fine. Otherwise, replace it.

Is it safe to drain a water heater myself?

Yes, for tank-style heaters. The risks are scalding (the water is 120-140°F) and the hose getting too hot to handle. Use a heat-rated hose, wear gloves, and let the tank cool for 1 hour first if you're nervous.

What does the TPR valve do and how do I test it?

Temperature/Pressure Relief valve prevents the tank from exploding if pressure spikes. To test: lift the lever briefly. Water should rush out the discharge tube — if not, the valve is stuck and needs replacement immediately.

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Water Heater Maintenance: Annual Checklist and How to Drain It