Posted: May 4, 2026

What Upkeep Do Water Heaters Need?

Book your annual maintenance visits with Fraticelli Oil & Propane

Your water heater isn’t one of those items in your home that you use every once in a while. In fact, it is very likely that you use your water heater every single day. This piece of equipment provides the warm water that you need for washing your hands, showering, cleaning your dirty dishes, and doing your laundry. However, in order for your water heater to do this, you need to maintain and take care of it.

Caring for your water heater

Your home’s water heater should be professionally serviced once a year. During these appointments, a technician will typically examine the unit, check to make sure that the pipe fittings are secure, and confirm that everything is working effectively. These appointments are also the best way to catch small issues before they turn into large and potentially costly problems.

The importance of water heater upkeep

Maintaining your water heater helps your equipment in multiple ways:

• It extends its lifespan: Your water heater will last longer than it otherwise would with regular maintenance.
• It helps with your equipment’s effectiveness: Maintenance helps your water heater work at peak performance level, ensuring your home has the warm water it needs while lowering costs at the same time.
• It lowers the risk of breakdowns and needing repairs: Professional maintenance helps catch small issues early, preventing system breakdowns.

Signs that you need water heater maintenance

You should absolutely book annual professional maintenance appointments for your water heater, but if you are having issues, don’t wait until this annual appointment to address them. Looking out for warning signs is important. These include:

• An increase in your home’s energy bills: A sudden spike in energy costs may mean your water heater is working harder than necessary.
• Rusty or discolored water: This could indicate rust inside your water heater, which can damage your system if not addressed.
• Unusual smells: Odors may be caused by bacteria buildup inside the tank and should be addressed by a professional cleaning.
• Leaks: Water around the base of your unit is a serious issue that can lead to property damage and should be handled immediately.

Water heater services from Fraticelli Oil & Propane

Fraticelli Oil & Propane is here to help homeowners in central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire with the purchase, installation, and service of traditional water heaters, indirect-fired water heaters, and tankless water heaters. Whether you need to upgrade your current system or require a repair, you can count on us.

Contact Fraticelli Oil & Propane today and let us know how we can help with all your water heater needs.