Water Heater Maintenance & Installation: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Your water heater works behind the scenes every day—providing hot showers, clean dishes, and sanitized laundry. But like any hardworking system, it needs proper care to last. And when it reaches the end of its life, knowing when and how to replace it can save you time, stress, and money.

Here’s what you need to know about water heater maintenance and new installations.

Why Water Heater Maintenance Is So Important

Just like your HVAC system or plumbing, your water heater needs regular checkups. Ignoring it can lead to:

  • Higher energy bills

  • Rusty or discolored water

  • Leaking tanks

  • Unexpected breakdowns

We recommend having your water heater inspected once a year, especially before winter hits.

A typical maintenance visit includes:

  • Flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup

  • Checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion

  • Testing the temperature and pressure relief valve

  • Inspecting for leaks or wear

  • Ensuring proper venting and temperature settings

Routine maintenance can extend your water heater’s life by years and improve its efficiency.

Signs It’s Time for a New Water Heater

Even with good maintenance, water heaters don’t last forever. Most standard tank models last 8–12 years, and tankless models can last 15+ years.

Here are signs you may need a replacement:

  • Rust-colored or cloudy water

  • Noisy operation (rumbling or popping)

  • Leaks around the base

  • Inconsistent or no hot water

  • Rising energy bills

  • Your unit is over 10 years old

If you’re seeing any of these symptoms, it may be more cost-effective to install a new, energy-efficient unit.

Choosing the Right Water Heater

When it's time to upgrade, we’ll help you find the best water heater for your home and budget. Options include:

  • Tank water heaters (gas or electric): Reliable and budget-friendly

  • Tankless water heaters: Energy-efficient and provide endless hot water

  • Hybrid/electric heat pump water heaters: Great for energy savings in certain climates

We’ll consider your home size, hot water usage, fuel source, and budget before recommending the best fit.

We Handle It All—Maintenance, Repair, or Replacement

At Hoosier Man HVAC & Plumbing, we provide:

  • Annual water heater maintenance

  • Emergency water heater repairs

  • Full-service installations (tank or tankless)

  • Haul-away of old units

  • Code-compliant, professional service

We’re here to make sure your hot water stays flowing—reliably and efficiently.

Need water heater service or an upgrade?
Call us today at 317-657-9818 or book online at hmanhcp.com.
We’ll take care of it—fast, friendly, and done right.

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