If a water heater is located inside the living area of a home, such as in a closet, put a drain pan such as this one under it to catch leaks. Water-Heater Maintenance Field reporter Joe Lovitt visits with plumbing expert Dave Lohman, who offers tips on proper maintenance for a water heater that will prevent problems. Drain the sediment out of a water heater once a year. To do so, simply open the water valve on the tank and drain a gallon or so of water out. Stop draining once the water runs clear.
Water heaters have a magnesium tube called an anode inside the tank to prevent rust.
The anode attracts elements that cause rust, and in doing so rusts away itself and should be replaced about every five years. If the anode is causing a strange odor in the water, have the water analyzed to see if water-conditioning equipment needs to be installed in place of the anode. A water heater's relief valve is an important safety device. If the home's hot water is too hot or the pressure seems to be unusually high, check the relief valve. If water is dripping from the valve, it may need to be replaced.