02/13/2026
Water heaters and things to look for as a home owner when Inspecting your water heater
Quick checklist for inspecting a water heater (tank and tankless):
Basic info
- Note make/model, capacity (gallons or kW), manufacture date/serial (estimate age).
- Fuel type: natural gas, propane, electric, or heat-pump.
Exterior & installation
- Clearances around unit, proper ventilation for gas units.
- Unit level and securely mounted.
- Check for rust, corrosion, dents, paint blistering.
Leaks & moisture
- Look for water pooling, corrosion or mineral buildup around base, fittings, and drain valve.
- Inspect floor and surrounding walls/ceilings for stains from past leaks.
Connections & piping
- Tightness and condition of inlet/outlet pipes, unions, and fittings.
- Check insulation on hot/cold pipes and presence/condition of dielectric unions (for copper/steel connections).
- Ensure proper slope on condensate/drain lines (tankless) and no kinks.
Pressure relief & safety valves
- Confirm Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve (T&P) is present and plumbed to a safe discharge location.
- Look for signs T&P has discharged (wetness, corrosion). Do not open unless trained.
Drain valve & flushing
- Operate drain valve (carefully) to check flow and for sediment; for tanks consider annual flush if sediment present.
- Check for easy access to drain pan and pan drain line if installed.
Anode rod (tank)
- If possible, check anode rod condition (sacrificial rod corrosion indicates age/need for replacement).
Burner & combustion (gas tanks/tankless)
- Inspect burner and pilot assembly for soot, yellow flame, or corrosion. Flame should be mostly blue.
- Check venting for obstructions, corrosion, proper sealing, and positive draft.
Ignition & controls (gas/electric/tankless)
- Test thermostat and temperature setting (recommend 120°F / 49°C for safety and energy).
- For electric, check for tripped breakers, hot elements condition (if accessible).
- For tankless, check error codes and proper flow/pressure.
Pressure & expansion
- Confirm system pressure within normal range and presence/function of expansion tank where required.
Electrical
- Check wiring for damage, tight connections, proper disconnect/breaker labeling.
- Ensure GFCI where required and no exposed live wiring.
Performance checks
- Measure water temperature at faucet and compare to thermostat setting.
- Listen for unusual noises: popping (sediment), rumbling, continuous clicking (ignition issues).
Signs of failure / replacement triggers
- Visible rust, leaking tank, persistent soot, repeated heating-element failures, heavy sediment, age: tanks ~10–15 years, tankless ~15–20 years (varies).
When to call a pro immediately
- Active gas smell, persistent leak, T&P valve stuck or discharging, corrosion at tank seam, no heating after basic checks, or when you’re unsure about gas/electrical work.
Tools to bring
- Flashlight, thermometer, multimeter (electric units), wrench for drain/anode, bucket, camera/phone.
Safe operation tips
- Don’t block vents or combustion air.
- Set thermostat to 120°F.
- Turn off gas/electric before servicing; if you smell gas, evacuate and call the gas company.
CALL US TODAY AND WE CAN TAKE A LOOK.
207 312 3403
www.mainchoiceinspections.com
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