KO Plumbing delivers dependable water heater service for Charleston homes. Routine care keeps hot water steady, protects safety systems, and lowers energy use. As a locally owned, owner-operated company, we pair fast response with clear pricing and careful workmanship. Learn what a full visit includes, why annual care pays off, and how we tailor service for both tank and tankless systems.
What’s included in a typical water heater maintenance service
A professional visit is more than a quick look. Here is what KO Plumbing typically performs during water heater service for a home in the Lowcountry:
- Safety and leak check around the tank or unit, shutoff valves, gas connections, and venting.
- Drain and flush for storage-tank models to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
- Descale for tankless models using a clean-in-place pump to clear mineral buildup in the heat exchanger, then rinse and return lines to normal.
- Electrical and gas checks, including breaker and gas-pressure confirmation.
- Thermostat calibration near 120°F for comfort and safety, with the setting labeled for future reference.
- Temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve test on tank models.
- Anode-rod inspection on tank models with a recommendation if the rod is depleted.
- Inlet water-screen cleaning on tankless models; condensate neutralizer check on condensing units.
- Final start-up, purge of air from hot-water lines, and a clean work area. We document settings, note any parts to watch, and provide simple, practical tips to keep things running well between visits.
If you need other help at the same time, we can coordinate with our broader plumbing services checklist so the visit solves more than one problem at once.
Water heater service benefits
Regular water heater maintenance service helps you avoid cold-shower surprises and mid-season breakdowns. Flushing or descaling removes sediment and scale that can overheat parts and waste energy. Calibrating the thermostat improves comfort and can reduce energy use; many homes do best at about 120°F. Testing the relief valve and checking gas or electrical connections improve safety.
Proactive part replacement, such as a worn anode rod, can delay corrosion and leaks. Most homeowners also notice quieter operation and more consistent hot-water temperature.
To learn more about how temperature affects efficiency and safety, see the U.S. Department of Energy’s guidance on lowering water-heater temperature to 120°F. For a simple rule of thumb on flushing frequency, the EPA Water Sense program recommends flushing a water heater once a year.
Tank vs. tankless water heater service
Both types need routine care, but the steps differ:
- Tank models: drain and flush to remove sediment, test the T&P valve, inspect the anode rod, verify venting, and confirm the thermostat setting.
- Tankless models: perform tankless water heater service by descaling the heat exchanger, cleaning inlet screens and air filters, checking the condensate system on condensing units, and verifying error-code history. Leading manufacturers, including Navien, recommend annual maintenance for tankless units.
- For every unit: check for leaks, confirm gas pressure or breaker status, and set the temperature close to 120°F unless a specific application requires a different setting.
Local context: Charleston homes
Charleston’s municipal water is generally soft to slightly hard, averaging about 58 ppm (about 3.4 grains per gallon), which slows scale buildup compared with many inland cities. That helps, yet annual care is still smart because usage and water chemistry vary by neighborhood and season.
Water Heater Service FAQs
- 1) How often should I schedule service?
Most homes benefit from a professional check once a year; tankless systems often call for annual descaling and filter cleaning per manufacturer guidance. In higher-use homes or harder-water areas, service may be needed more frequently. - 2) Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?
Yes. Common steps include descaling the heat exchanger, cleaning inlet screens (and air filters on some models), checking condensate on condensing units, and reviewing error codes. Many tankless makers, such as Navien, recommend annual maintenance. - 3) Is flushing really necessary, and how is it different from descaling?
For storage-tank heaters, flushing removes sediment from the tank. For tankless units, descaling circulates a solution through the heat exchanger to clear mineral buildup. Both help protect parts and efficiency; many guidance sources recommend doing this about once a year. - 4) What are the signs my water heater needs service?
Watch for inconsistent water temperature, reduced hot-water volume, popping or rumbling from sediment, discolored water, or any leaks around the unit. These are common indicators that maintenance is due. - 5) What temperature should I set my water heater?
A setting around 120°F balances comfort, safety, and energy savings for most homes; adjust only if your household has special requirements. - 6) How long does professional water heater service take?
Most routine visits are completed in a single appointment; timing varies by unit type, condition, and access. If we find issues during inspection, we will explain options and next steps before any additional work. - 7) Will DIY maintenance affect my warranty?
Check your model’s warranty and manual. Many manufacturers state that servicing should be performed by a qualified technician, and warranty coverage can depend on following those instructions. - 8) How long do water heaters last?
Typical lifespans are about 10 years for a tank-style heater and around 20 years for a tankless unit, assuming proper maintenance and installation. - 9) Does Charleston’s water hardness change how often I need service?
Charleston’s municipal water averages about 58 ppm (3.4 gpg), which is soft to slightly hard. Annual service still makes sense, since usage and neighborhood water chemistry vary.
Need Water Heater Service Near Charleston?
Ready for reliable hot water? Book a visit with KO Plumbing today. Call 843-499-3945 or schedule online. Want to learn more about who will show up at your door? Read About KO Plumbing and see why homeowners across Charleston trust us with water heater maintenance and repairs.