As temperatures fall, your water heater becomes one of the most relied-upon appliances in your home. From warm showers to clean dishes and laundry, you depend on it every day—especially during NYC’s cold, wet winters. At Boris Mechanical, we get more service calls for water heater issues in December than any other month. That’s why November is the ideal time for a pre-winter inspection and tune-up.
Here’s our NYC plumber-approved checklist to prepare your water heater for winter:
1. Flush the Tank
Sediment from NYC’s water supply can build up inside your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and leading to corrosion. Flushing the tank once a year removes this buildup, helping your system heat faster and last longer.
2. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod helps prevent tank corrosion—but it wears out over time. If it’s heavily deteriorated, your tank could be at risk. A plumber can inspect and replace the rod before damage occurs.
3. Inspect for Leaks or Rust
Small leaks around the base of the water heater or corrosion at the fittings may signal early failure. Catching these signs now can prevent water damage and emergency replacements later.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
This safety valve prevents dangerous pressure buildup in the tank. It should be tested annually—if it’s stuck or leaking, it must be replaced immediately.
5. Adjust the Temperature
For winter, we recommend setting your water heater to 120–125°F. This ensures hot showers without risking scalding or overworking the unit.
6. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Exposed hot water lines lose heat quickly in cold spaces like NYC basements or boiler rooms. Adding pipe insulation keeps water hotter and helps the heater work more efficiently.
Signs You May Need a New Water Heater
- System is over 10 years old
- Rust-colored water from taps
- Strange noises or smells from the tank
- Water takes too long to heat or runs out quickly
Avoid cold showers this winter.
Contact Boris Mechanical today for your November water heater tune-up or a professional consultation on replacement options.
