Early Fall Is a Good Time to Give Your Water Heater Some Attention

We tend to think about our heating systems as soon as the temperatures start to drop, but there’s another hardworking appliance in the house that deserves a little attention this time of year: your water heater.

Early fall is a great time to give it a once-over. As the weather cools, the water entering your home gets colder, which means your water heater has to work harder to bring it up to temperature. Add in more hot showers, baths and general indoor time, and a small problem now can become a much bigger inconvenience in the middle of winter.

A little preventative maintenance can help keep your water heater running efficiently and, hopefully, help you catch trouble before you're standing in a cold shower in January.

1. Clear the Area Around It

Start with an easy one. Head down to the basement or utility room and take a look at what has accumulated around your water heater.

Boxes, paint cans, cleaning supplies and miscellaneous household storage have a way of migrating toward mechanical equipment. Keep the area around the unit clear so you can easily inspect it and so there's adequate airflow around equipment that requires ventilation.

While you're there, take a good look at the floor around the tank. Any unexplained moisture, rust or staining is worth investigating.

2. Check the Temperature

For many households, 120°F is a good water-heater setting. It provides plenty of hot water while reducing the risk of scalding and avoiding the energy waste that comes with keeping water unnecessarily hot.

If your water suddenly seems much hotter or cooler than usual, however, don't just adjust the thermostat and forget about it. A noticeable change can sometimes point to a thermostat, heating element or other issue that needs attention.

3. Consider Flushing the Tank

Over time, minerals and sediment can collect at the bottom of a traditional tank-style water heater. That buildup can reduce efficiency and is sometimes responsible for the popping or rumbling noises you hear coming from an older tank.

Periodically flushing the tank can help remove that sediment. If you routinely maintain your water heater and are comfortable doing it, follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular model.

If the tank hasn't been flushed in years, is quite old, or you're not sure what you're doing, this may be a good job to leave to a plumber. Older drain valves don't always appreciate being opened after sitting untouched for a decade.

4. Look at the Pipes and Insulation

If your water heater is located in an unfinished or chilly basement, insulating accessible hot-water pipes can reduce heat loss as water travels through the house. Foam pipe insulation is inexpensive and relatively easy to install.

Some older tank-style water heaters may also benefit from an insulating blanket, but don't automatically wrap every tank you see. Many newer models are already well insulated, and additional insulation may not be recommended. Check the manufacturer's instructions first, particularly with gas-fired units where vents, controls and air intakes must remain unobstructed.

5. Don't Forget the Safety Components

Tank-style water heaters have a temperature and pressure relief valve designed to release water if pressure or temperature inside the tank becomes unsafe.

This is an important safety device, but it's also one I don't recommend experimenting with if you're unsure of its condition, especially on an older water heater. If you notice leaking or corrosion around the valve or discharge pipe, have it inspected by a professional. A plumber can also check the valve as part of routine water-heater maintenance.

6. Ask About the Anode Rod

Inside most traditional tank water heaters is an anode rod designed to corrode before the steel tank does. It's a relatively small component that can have a big impact on the life of the water heater.

Anode rods don't last forever. If your tank is several years old and you've never had the rod inspected, ask about it the next time you have the system serviced. Replacing a depleted rod can help protect a tank that's otherwise in good condition.

7. Pay Attention to What Your Water Heater Is Telling You

Water heaters usually give you some warning when things aren't quite right. Keep an eye — and an ear — out for:

• Rust or corrosion around fittings

• Water collecting around the bottom of the tank

• Rumbling, popping or other new noises

• Rust-colored or cloudy hot water

• Hot water that runs out faster than it used to

• Water that takes noticeably longer to heat

• Unexplained changes in water temperature

None of these automatically means you need a new water heater, but they're good reasons to have it checked before the problem gets worse.

8. Know the Age of Your Water Heater

If you have no idea how old your water heater is, fall is a good time to find out. Check the manufacturer's label for the model and serial number; the manufacturer can usually help you determine the date it was made.

Traditional tank water heaters don't last forever, and once yours gets into the 10-year-plus range, it's smart to pay closer attention to its condition and start thinking ahead. That doesn't mean replacing a perfectly good water heater simply because it had a birthday. It means avoiding the unpleasant surprise of having an aging tank fail without a plan.

If replacement is on the horizon, you'll also have more choices when you're planning ahead than you will during an emergency. Today's options include high-efficiency tank models, heat-pump water heaters and tankless systems, depending on your home and your family's needs.

A Little Fall Maintenance Goes a Long Way

We spend plenty of time getting our homes ready for colder weather — cleaning gutters, servicing furnaces, sealing drafts and putting away the patio furniture. Your water heater deserves a spot on that fall checklist too.

Take ten minutes to look it over now. Check for leaks and corrosion, clear the surrounding area and think about when it was last serviced. A little attention in September or October can help keep the hot water flowing when you really don't want to be thinking about it in January.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Hot Water Heater Maintenance: Winter Is Coming

As temperatures drop, ensuring your home is ready for the colder months becomes crucial. One appliance that often gets overlooked is the hot water heater. A little preparation now can prevent unwelcome surprises when you need hot water the most.

Here’s how you can prepare your water heater for winter:

1. Drain and Flush Your Tank

Over time, sediment collects in your water heater, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Draining and flushing the tank twice a year helps prevent this buildup. Late fall is a perfect time for this task.

• Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Turn off your water heater and allow it to cool.

2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and run the other end to a bucket.

3. Open the valve and let the water drain.

4. If the water is discolored or contains sediment, continue refilling and draining until it runs clear.

5. Close the valve, disconnect the hose, and restart the unit.

2. Adjust the Temperature

Keep the thermostat at 120°F to balance efficiency and safety. If you’re planning to leave home for a few days or more, lower the temperature to save energy. For every 10°F you lower, you can save about 5% on energy costs.

3. Insulate for Energy Efficiency

Cold temperatures can affect your water heater’s efficiency. Insulate the tank and exposed pipes to retain heat:

• Use a fiberglass blanket for the tank, avoiding vents or valve openings.

• Cover pipes with foam or fiberglass insulation.

This simple step can reduce heat loss and protect your unit from condensation issues.

4. Check for Leaks

Inspect the valves and fittings for any leaks. Tighten loose connections, or replace faulty parts if necessary. Always shut off the water supply before making any repairs.

5. Call in the Pros

If your water heater is over 8-12 years old or if maintenance feels overwhelming, consider hiring a plumber for a professional inspection. Winter is a busy season for service providers, so schedule your appointment early to avoid delays.

6. Know When to Replace

A failing water heater can lead to unexpected cold showers or costly water damage. Replacement costs vary and really depend on the model, tank size, and your home’s needs. Research your options and don’t forget to check out EnergizeCT for rebate options. Most importantly, don’t wait until it’s too late. Taking these steps now ensures your water heater runs smoothly all winter long, saving you stress and money.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visitwww.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

A Fall Maintenance To Do List

As the days get shorter and outdoor projects become harder to tackle, now’s the perfect time to take care of a few key tasks before the colder weather sets in. Here are my top five tips to prepare your home for fall and winter.

1. Clear Those Gutters Falling leaves are just around the corner, and they’ll quickly clog your gutters and downspouts. If you've been thinking about installing gutter guards, now’s the time! These will prevent debris buildup and spare you the hassle of frequent clean-outs. Clean, functional gutters are essential to channel water away from your home and avoid potential damage.

2. Check Your Doors Stiff, hard-to-open doors are a sign that cooler temperatures are already having an effect. As the weather shifts and wood contracts, gaps can form, allowing cold air to seep inside. Make sure your door sweep is in top shape, and consider adding weather stripping to seal any cracks between the door and its frame.

3. Assess Your Insulation Many homes I visit are under-insulated, which creates discomfort in both winter and summer. Adequate insulation helps maintain a steady temperature throughout the house. If your second floor is consistently warmer than the first, it’s a good indication that your home could benefit from more insulation.

4. Inspect Your Roof Now is an ideal time to check your roof for any damaged shingles or issues around the chimney flashing. Snow lingers on roofs far longer than rain, making it easier for leaks to develop during the winter. Addressing small roof problems now can prevent larger, more expensive repairs later.

5. Evaluate Your Windows Using a thermal camera, I often find homes losing a lot of heat through old wood sash or aluminum windows. Replacing them with energy-efficient vinyl windows can make a noticeable difference. And the added bonus? Many vinyl windows come with tilt-in sashes for effortless cleaning, which we love at my house.

6. Get Your Hot Water Heater Tuned It’s not an outside project but if your hot water heater isn’t working when you need it, it’s going to make life very uncomfortable. Make an appointment now to have your systems flushed and inspected before the season gets too busy, or DIY it if you’re comfortable doing the work. Either way, don’t wait until it’s too late.

Owning a home means regular upkeep, but it’s an investment that pays off in comfort and energy savings. By taking a few simple steps now, you can enjoy a cozier home this winter—and keep those utility bills in check.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company founded in 1975. Have questions? Email info@odonnellbros.com with “Ask the Pro” in the subject line. All inquiries may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.