Water Heater Maintenance Tips for North Texas Homes

When winter hits North Texas, mornings get colder, pipes contract, and your water heater works harder than usual. Then, one day, you turn the knob and . . . nothing.

Luckily, avoiding that moment isn’t hard if you know what steps to take. With a bit of consistent water heater maintenance, you can keep your system running smoothly all winter long. If you’re still having trouble with your water heater, you can trust On Point Plumbing DFW to be there when you need us.

Check and Adjust Your Water Heater’s Temperature Setting

Your water heater’s thermostat protects your system in winter, when the groundwater is colder, the heater will be working hard. Set the temperature too high, and the system overworks itself. If you set it too low, you won’t get hot enough water. A good rule of thumb is 120°F, which is hot enough for daily use and energy-efficient enough to reduce strain on parts. 

Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of your tank. That layer of mineral gunk makes it harder for burners or heating elements to do their job. Gradually, you’ll use more energy, get your water unevenly heated, and shorten your unit’s lifespan.

Flushing the tank once or twice a year can prevent this. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve, let the water run until it’s clear, and then refill the tank. Sometimes this process can be messy or risky for older units. If you haven’t flushed the heater in years or aren’t comfortable doing so, contact a professional DFW plumber. 

Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes

Adding insulation blankets to your tank can help it stay efficient by reducing heat loss. Pipe insulation sleeves or foam wraps are quick DIY fixes, too. They prevent the water inside from cooling too fast and keep exposed lines from freezing in unheated spaces like garages or basements.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

Your water heater has a pressure relief valve to prevent dangerous overpressure inside the tank. It’s small but crucial. Every few months, lift the valve’s lever slightly to let a little water release. You should hear a brief hiss or see water flow through the discharge pipe.

If nothing happens (or if it keeps leaking after you test it), it’s time for a replacement. A faulty relief valve can lead to more serious issues, such as leaks or tank damage. 

Examine the Anode Rod

The anode rod is a metal stick inside your water heater that sacrifices itself to prevent rust. Over the years, it corrodes, and once it wears too thin, rust starts attacking your tank instead.

Checking and replacing this part every few years can help prolong your system's life. If your hot water starts to smell like metal or rotten eggs, that can be a sign that the anode rod is failing.

Listen for Warning Noises

When your water heater starts making odd noises like popping, cracking, or rumbling, pay attention. Those sounds can indicate sediment buildup or overheating in the tank, which can lead to bigger problems like leaks or reduced heating efficiency. Catching them early can save you money and frustration.

Address Problems Quickly

Hearing a hiss from the water heater? Seeing rusty spots or small puddles around it? Don’t wait. Most “no hot water from water heater” calls in winter trace back to ignored maintenance or small leaks.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Professional servicing isn’t just for emergencies; it’s preventive care. A skilled plumber can spot problems before they cause breakdowns. During an annual checkup, they can:

• Flush your tank safely.
• Inspect for leaks, corrosion, and gas line issues.
• Test the thermostat and safety mechanisms.
• Replace worn-out parts before they fail.

Keep an Eye on Water Quality

Hard water is brutal on water heaters. Minerals like calcium and magnesium settle in your tank, forcing it to work harder.

Installing a water softener or filtration system helps extend your water heater’s life while improving your overall plumbing performance. Clean water can mean cleaner equipment and lower energy bills.

Find Expert Water Heater Maintenance with On Point Plumbing

Winter has a way of testing your home systems. But with steady maintenance and a bit of local help, your water heater can power through the cold season without a hiccup.

At On Point Plumbing DFW, we believe in quality work done right the first time. With over 50 years of combined experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and fair pricing. Homeowners in Bedford, Arlington, and across North Texas trust us for water heater repairs, installations, and maintenance. We communicate clearly, show up on time, and back our work with real warranties.

The next time your shower runs cold or you notice your system struggling, call On Point Plumbing DFW—your local water heater experts. We’ll troubleshoot the issue, tune up your setup, and get your hot water running again. Whether it’s a small fix or a full replacement, we’ll ensure it’s done right. Contact us today for professional water heater service in Bedford, Arlington, and throughout North Texas.