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.

Your Winter Water Heater Tune-Up Guide

Your Winter Water Heater Tune-Up Guide

When the cold creeps in and the snow starts to pile up, there’s nothing worse than realizing your hot shower just turned into an arctic plunge. Winter is hard enough without water heater problems and the good news is, a little preventative maintenance now can save you from a mid-January cold-water crisis later. Here are a few easy, DIY-friendly steps to keep your water heater running efficiently all season long.

1. Give It a Little Elbow Room

Your water heater works best when it can breathe. Head down to the basement and make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance around the unit. Over time, storage boxes, paint cans, or the kids’ old hockey gear tend to creep closer. Clear that space so air can circulate and you have easy access for inspection and maintenance.

2. Check the Temperature Setting

If you’ve never looked at your water heater’s thermostat, now’s the time. Set it to 120°F - that’s the sweet spot for most homes. Any higher and you risk scalding (especially if you have little ones), plus you’ll waste energy heating water hotter than you need. Any lower and you might invite bacteria to grow. It’s a quick twist of a dial that can make a big difference in comfort and safety.

3. Flush Out Sediment (It’s Easier Than It Sounds)

Connecticut’s water tends to be mineral-rich, which means sediment can build up in the tank over time. That layer of grit forces your heater to work harder and can even make popping or rumbling noises. To flush it:

• Turn off the power (or gas supply).

• Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom.

• Run the other end to a floor drain or outside.

• Open the valve and let the tank drain until clear.

If it’s been years since your last flush, you may need to repeat the process. This simple step can extend the life of your heater and improve efficiency. Just make sure you close the valve tightly when you’re done.

4. Insulate for Efficiency

Your hot water heater loses heat through its tank and pipes, especially if it lives in a chilly basement. Wrapping it in an insulating blanket (available at any hardware store) can help retain warmth, meaning your system doesn’t have to work as hard.

Also insulate the first six feet of hot and cold water pipes coming from the tank. Foam pipe sleeves are inexpensive and take just minutes to install. It’s one of those small upgrades that pays for itself fast in energy savings.

5. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

This valve is a key safety feature that releases pressure if the tank gets too hot. To test it, place a bucket under the discharge pipe, then lift the valve’s lever gently. You should hear water or air escape briefly. If nothing happens, or it leaks afterward, it’s time to replace the valve. Don’t skip this one; it’s a simple check that can prevent dangerous pressure buildup.

6. Mind the Anode Rod

Your water heater’s anode rod is like a sacrificial hero - it attracts corrosive minerals so your tank doesn’t rust. But it wears out over time. Every few years, check it by unscrewing the hex head at the top of the tank (you might need a socket wrench). If the rod looks thin or coated in calcium, replace it. It’s a $20 part that can add years to your heater’s life.

7. Keep an Eye Out for Trouble Signs

Rusty water, strange noises, or puddles around the base of your heater are all warning flags. A little condensation on cold days is normal but leaks are not. If you see rust or corrosion near fittings, or your water takes longer to heat up, call in a professional before winter really sets in.

8. Know When to Call the Pros

While most of these steps are DIY-friendly, there are times to tag in an expert. If you smell gas, see scorch marks, or aren’t comfortable handling electrical or plumbing components, stop and call a licensed technician. It’s always better (and cheaper) to fix a small issue early than replace the whole system later.

9. Bonus: Plan Ahead for Replacement

If your water heater is over 10 years old, start budgeting for a replacement. Even a well-maintained tank won’t last forever, and Connecticut’s freezing winters are not kind to aging systems. Newer models are more energy-efficient and often eligible for utility rebates, so upgrading might save you more than you think.

A little attention now keeps the hot water flowing and your winter mornings comfortable. Whether it’s flushing out sediment, tightening valves, or adding insulation, these small steps add up to big peace of mind. 

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.

Safeguard Your Pipes in Freezing Weather

As chilly temperatures settle in for the week, it's crucial to ensure the well-being of your pipes. Dealing with a burst water pipe during winter is not only a common inconvenience but also an expensive hassle. Here's a guide to help you minimize the risk of such issues.

Protect Outdoor Water Sources

If you have outdoor water sources like a pool or sprinklers, take preventive measures. Drain them to avoid standing water freezing and expanding when temperatures drop. Anything in an unheated area is vulnerable.

Secure Outdoor Hoses

Remove and drain all outdoor hoses, storing them away for the season. Close the valves to prevent seepage and ensure they are in good condition for future use.

Insulate Your Attic

Install an insulated box above your attic hatchway to retain heat in your house. An underinsulated attic is a potential risk, being the coldest part of the house.

Insulate Water Supply Lines

Identify water supply lines in your home and insulate both hot and cold water pipes. Inexpensive options like pipe sleeves and heat tape can enhance heat retention and prevent freezing.

Seal Unheated Areas

Keep unheated areas such as garages closed to prevent freezing. Garages often have water lines that can easily freeze when temperatures plummet.

Adjust Thermostat When Away

If you plan to be away and want to save energy costs, don't set the thermostat lower than 55 degrees. This prevents freezing issues while keeping energy usage efficient.

If a pipe is already frozen, consider these steps:

• Leave faucets slightly open to encourage water flow and melt partially frozen pipes.

• Use a hair dryer, space heater, or heating pad to circulate water in the frozen section.

• Check all water sources if one pipe is frozen, as others could be affected.

• If unsure, call a plumber to prevent serious and expensive damage.

• Shut off the main water valve while keeping faucets open.

A burst pipe can lead to serious flooding and long-term problems like mold and mildew, affecting your family's health. Don't wait to protect your home—act now, especially during the colder winter months.

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