Water Heater Maintenance Checklist
A one-page water heater maintenance checklist for tank, tankless and heat pump units. Edit it, print or save as PDF.
How to use| Item | OK | Needs attention | N/A | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Readings | ||||
| Setpoint ( °F) / hot water at nearest fixture ( °F) | ||||
| Static water pressure ( psi) | ||||
| Gas: inlet pressure ( in. w.c.) / CO in flue ( ppm) | ||||
| Electric: voltage ( V) / element amps ( A) | ||||
| All water heaters (homeowner + tech) | ||||
| No leaks at heater, fittings, valves or drain pan | ||||
| T&P discharge pipe intact, not capped, plugged or reduced | ||||
| T&P valve tested per manufacturer, reseats without dripping | ||||
| Area around heater clear of storage and flammables | ||||
| Cold water shutoff valve operates | ||||
| Expansion tank pre-charge matches water pressure (where fitted) | ||||
| Seismic straps / supports secure (where required) | ||||
| Tank (gas / electric) | ||||
| Tank flushed, sediment removed | ||||
| Anode rod inspected / replaced (date ) | ||||
| Gas: burner flame, pilot / igniter OK | ||||
| Gas: vent connector secure, drafting properly, no spillage | ||||
| Gas: combustion air and flame arrestor screen clean | ||||
| Electric: elements and thermostats tested, wiring tight | ||||
| Tankless | ||||
| Descaled / flushed through service valves | ||||
| Inlet water filter screen cleaned | ||||
| Venting secure, condensate drain / neutralizer clear | ||||
| Error code history checked | ||||
| Heat pump water heater | ||||
| Air filter cleaned | ||||
| Evaporator coil and airflow clear | ||||
| Condensate drain and trap clear | ||||
| Operating mode set (heat pump / hybrid / electric) | ||||
How to use
- The water heater template is already loaded, with readings, all water heaters, tank, tankless and heat pump sections. Mark sections that don't apply N/A or delete them.
- Add your business name, logo and the job details, or leave them blank to fill in by hand.
- Edit, add, remove or move items and sections. The preview updates as you type.
- Press Print, or Save as PDF and choose “Save as PDF” in the print window.
- Save a draft to reuse the same checklist on your next job.
About this water heater maintenance checklist
Use it as a water heater service checklist for technicians or a yearly check sheet for homeowners. The All water heaters section is a simple walk-around anyone can do; the tank, tankless and heat pump sections cover flushing, anode rods, descaling, filters, venting and condensate. For a whole-house check, use the plumbing inspection checklist.
Follow your local code and manufacturer instructions; this is a general checklist.
Questions
How often should a water heater be maintained?
Many manufacturers recommend flushing tank heaters and descaling tankless heaters about once a year, more often with hard water. Check the T&P valve and look for leaks regularly. Follow the manual for your unit.
What temperature should a water heater be set to?
Many manufacturers and the U.S. Department of Energy suggest about 120°F for most homes. Higher settings increase the risk of scalding. Follow local code and the manufacturer, especially where mixing valves are required.
Can a homeowner use this checklist?
Yes. A homeowner can do the walk-around items. Leave gas, venting, electrical and T&P valve work to a qualified technician if you are not sure.