All checklists
Plumbing · Once a year
Water heater check
A quick look-over of a tank water heater: leaks, the relief valve's discharge pipe, and the area around it.
Add to an item in my homeSteps
- 1Look for water, rust or corrosion around the base and fittings
- 2Confirm the temperature-relief discharge pipe is in place and points toward the floor or drain
- 3Keep the area around the heater clear of stored items
- 4Check the temperature setting (many households use about 120°F)
- 5Note the age from the label — record it on the item
- 6Follow the manual for flushing sediment, or ask a plumber
Steps follow the sources listed. Your item's manual comes first.
Safety first
Water from the tank and relief valve can scald. Gas units: if you smell gas, leave and call your gas utility.
When to call a pro
For leaks, a relief valve that drips, rumbling noises, or any gas smell.
In GoodKeap
Open the item on its page, choose Add checklist, and pick this one. Tick steps as you go, add a note, and each time is saved to the item's record.