What are expert tips for seasonal water heater maintenance?

Set calendar reminders for each seasonal check. A water heater blanket costs $20-$30 and pays for itself in one winter in unheated areas. Going on vacation for more than a week? Set gas to VACATION mode or electric to lowest setting. Keep a log of seasonal checks -- patterns tell you about water quality and tank health.

What mistakes should I avoid with seasonal water heater maintenance?

Ignoring seasonal temperature changes and wondering why bills spike in winter. Turning the heater off completely for vacation. PILOT mode or minimum setting is better. Forgetting to insulate pipes in unheated areas before winter. Skipping the spring maintenance window -- by winter, problems become emergencies.

Seasonal Water Heater Maintenance

Maintenance Guide Easy 15-30 minutes per season $0 DIY

Created by Ryan Pietrzak Illinois Licensed Plumber · In the plumbing industry since 2009

Updated February 20, 2026

Key Takeaway

Water heater demands shift with the seasons. Incoming water temperature drops 20-30F in winter, forcing the unit to work harder. Summer brings less demand but higher ambient temps. A quick seasonal check keeps things running right without surprises when you need hot water most.

Overview

What to Know

Spring

Spring is your annual maintenance window. Flush the tank, check the anode rod, test the T&P valve, and inspect venting. After a winter of heavy use, catch any developing issues before summer's lower demand masks them.

Summer

Lower the thermostat 5-10F to save energy -- incoming water is warmer. Check for condensation on gas heater vent pipes in air-conditioned spaces. Inspect the area around the heater for new moisture or leaks.

Fall

Return the thermostat to 120F. Incoming water temps are dropping. Check the pilot light on gas units -- fall weather changes can affect draft. Insulate exposed hot water pipes in unheated spaces before the first freeze.

Winter

Monitor energy usage -- a sudden spike means the heater is struggling with colder inlet water. If the heater is in an unheated space, ensure ambient temps don't drop below 40F. A water heater blanket can save 7-16% on heating costs in cold spaces.

Pro Tips

Set calendar reminders for each seasonal check.
A water heater blanket costs $20-$30 and pays for itself in one winter in unheated areas.
Going on vacation for more than a week? Set gas to VACATION mode or electric to lowest setting.
Keep a log of seasonal checks -- patterns tell you about water quality and tank health.

Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring seasonal temperature changes and wondering why bills spike in winter.
Turning the heater off completely for vacation. PILOT mode or minimum setting is better.
Forgetting to insulate pipes in unheated areas before winter.
Skipping the spring maintenance window -- by winter, problems become emergencies.

When to Call a Pro

If your water heater can't keep up with demand despite being properly sized, the elements or burner may be failing. Loud popping or cracking from the tank in winter means heavy sediment is being superheated -- flush immediately or call a pro.

Bottom Line

Five minutes per season keeps your water heater running right all year. Spring flush, summer efficiency tweak, fall preparation, winter monitoring. Simple stuff that prevents expensive surprises.