If you live in an area with hard water, minerals like lime and calcium can slowly settle at the bottom of your tank and create a thick layer of sediment. Over time, this buildup forces your water heater to work much harder because the burner must heat through that “rock” before it can even reach the water, leading to wasted energy.

You should listen to your water heater for a “gurgling” or “popping” sound, as this is often a warning sign that sediment is trapped and needs to be flushed out.

For newer water heaters, you can prevent this by making it a monthly habit to drain several buckets of water from the valve at the bottom.

However, if you have an older unit that has never been flushed, it is important to reach out to a licensed professional. In older tanks, sediment can “plug” tiny leaks, and opening a crusty valve might prevent it from closing completely, causing a permanent leak.

Your water heater’s temperature setting matters more than you might think. Water that’s too hot can cause burn injuries. Set your water heater to 120°F to prevent scalding while meeting daily needs.

Here’s how to check your current water temperature:

• Run hot water from your bathroom faucet for one to three minutes
• Use a reliable thermometer to measure the water
• Test kitchen and other bathroom faucets

Your water heater needs some breathing room. Maintain at least a three-foot zone around the unit. Never store gasoline, paint or solvents near the unit.

Also, keep the burner intake free of dust and pet hair. This helps prevent carbon monoxide buildup and maintains safe venting.

If your pilot light goes out, turn off the gas valve using hand pressure only, never tools. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which you can usually find near the lower tank control. If you’re not comfortable relighting it safely, call a qualified technician.