Water Heater Maintenance & Safety: The Ultimate Dos and Don’ts

If hot water runs out too quickly, your tank may be undersized.

As a general guideline:

• A family of four often requires a tank of at least 60 gallons (227 L)

Proper sizing improves comfort and reduces system strain.

Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C).
This temperature:

• Helps prevent scalding
• Limits bacterial growth
• Improves energy efficiency

Pro Tip: When leaving for vacation, use “Vacation Mode” or the lowest setting to reduce system pressure and energy use.

Over time, minerals and sediment accumulate at the bottom of the tank.
This buildup:

• Reduces efficiency
• Causes overheating
• Accelerates corrosion

Recommendation: Flush the tank once per year through the drain valve.

In finished basements and condominiums, added protection is essential.
Consider:

• A drain pan under the tank
• A water leak detector
• An automatic shut-off valve (where applicable)

These devices can prevent major water damage.

Keep flammable materials at least 18 inches (45 cm) away.

Avoid storing:

• Paint
• Cardboard
• Cleaning chemicals

This reduces fire risk.

In Quebec, many insurance companies recommend replacing water heaters every 10 years.
Older tanks carry higher leak risk and may affect coverage. Always verify with your insurer.

During inspections, we frequently find water heaters installed without proper drainage, clearance, or protection. These small details often become major insurance claims later.
Preventive maintenance saves thousands.

During a home inspection, water heaters are evaluated for:

• Age
• Safety
• Unusual or suspect installations
• Leakage

During a home inspection, the condition and age of a water heater may become a discussion point if the unit shows signs of wear or potential failure.