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How to Be Kind to Your Water Heater

Home | Blog | Published on January 26th, 2026

Your water heater works quietly behind the scenes every day, delivering hot water for showers, dishes, laundry, and more. Like any hardworking appliance, it needs regular care to stay reliable. Scheduling professional water heater maintenance in Gilbert, AZ is one of the simplest ways to extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Being kind to your water heater starts with understanding what happens inside the tank over time.

A Pixar type style homeowner hugging her happy water heater.

What Happens Inside Your Water Heater Over Time

As water heats and cools repeatedly, it leaves behind sediment and minerals—especially in areas with hard water. These particles settle at the bottom of the tank, forming a thick layer of sediment. At the same time, dissolved minerals can cling to internal components, creating mineral scale. This buildup forces your water heater to work harder to heat water, increasing energy use and straining the system.

Sediment Buildup

Sediment acts like insulation between the heating element or burner and the water it’s trying to heat. As the layer grows, your water heater needs more time and energy to reach the desired temperature. This can lead to higher utility bills, inconsistent water temperatures, and rumbling or popping noises coming from the tank. Left unchecked, sediment can also cause overheating and damage the tank lining.

The Critical Role of the Anode Rod

One of the most important—but often overlooked—parts of your water heater is the anode rod. This metal rod is designed to corrode instead of the tank, protecting it from rust. Over time, the anode rod deteriorates and eventually becomes ineffective. If it’s not inspected and replaced when needed, corrosion can begin attacking the tank itself, leading to leaks or complete failure.

What Professional Maintenance Does for Your System

Our expert team takes the stress off your water heater with thorough, professional maintenance. We flush the system to remove built-up sediment and eliminate mineral debris that reduces efficiency. During the service, we also inspect the anode rod, assess its condition, and replace it if necessary to keep corrosion at bay. We’ll examine key components, test safety controls, and make sure your system is operating as it should.

The Risks of Skipping Water Heater Maintenance

Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to a range of problems—from higher energy bills and reduced hot water supply to sudden system failure. In severe cases, neglected water heaters can leak or rupture, causing water damage and costly repairs. Routine maintenance is far more affordable than emergency replacements and helps you avoid inconvenient breakdowns.

Be Proactive and Protect Your Comfort

Being kind to your water heater means giving it the care it deserves before problems arise. With regular professional maintenance, you’ll enjoy better performance, lower energy costs, and peace of mind knowing your hot water system is protected. Let our skilled team handle the dirty work so your water heater can keep serving your home reliably for years to come.

Contact us today for help with water heater maintenance in Gilbert, AZ. Bruce’s Air Conditioning has been keeping residents and businesses cool and comfortable Valley-wide since 1972. Done Right at a Great Price!

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