Whether you rely on a traditional tank-style water heater or a modern tankless system, your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It’s responsible for everything from hot showers to clean dishes and laundry. But without proper care and maintenance, even the best systems can break down or lose efficiency—especially during Minnesota’s cold winters.
At Affinity Plumbing & Water Conditioning, we help homeowners in Eden Prairie, MN, and nearby communities like Minnetonka, Chanhassen, Edina, and Bloomington keep their water heaters running safely and efficiently. Here are essential tips to help you care for your traditional or tankless water heater and know when it’s time to call a professional.
1. Set the Right Water Temperature
One of the simplest and most effective things you can do for your water heater is setting the right temperature.
Recommended setting: 120°F
- Helps prevent bacterial growth, including Legionella
- Reduces risk of scalding, especially in homes with children or elderly residents
- Lowers your monthly energy bills by reducing standby heat loss
- Prevents overheating in tank systems, which can cause pressure buildup
Most manufacturers set water heaters at 140°F, but that’s hotter than necessary for most Eden Prairie homes. Adjusting it to 120°F balances comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
Not sure how to adjust your thermostat? Our water heater repair and maintenance experts can check it during your next service call.
2. Flush Your Water Heater Annually to Prevent Sediment Buildup
Both traditional and tankless water heaters need to be flushed regularly to remove sediment, especially in areas like Eden Prairie that have moderately hard water.
Flushing Guidelines:
- Tank water heaters: Flush at least once a year to prevent rust and scale from building up in the tank.
- Tankless water heaters: Descale or flush every 6–12 months to keep the heat exchanger clear and efficient.
Skipping regular flushing can lead to:
- Reduced water heater efficiency
- Higher energy bills
- Rumbling or banging noises
- Premature system failure
Let the pros handle it. We provide professional flushing and maintenance services for both tank and tankless units.
3. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Water heaters often show signs when something isn’t right. If you catch the warning signs early, you can avoid major breakdowns and expensive replacements.
Common red flags:
- Discolored or rusty water
- A metallic smell from hot water
- Inconsistent water temperatures
- Loud popping, hissing, or rumbling sounds
- Leaking water at the base or from pressure relief valves
- A drop in water pressure when using hot water
If you notice any of these symptoms in your Eden Prairie home, it’s time to schedule a professional water heater inspection.
Don’t wait for a cold shower—contact our Eden Prairie plumbers today for a fast, reliable diagnosis.
4. Know When to Call a Plumber
While some maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, others are better left to the pros—especially when it involves gas, electric, or water line connections.
Call Affinity Plumbing & Water Conditioning if:
- Your tank or tankless unit is leaking
- You smell gas near your water heater
- Your pilot light won’t stay lit
- You hear odd noises or see error codes on a tankless unit
- It’s been more than a year since your last inspection
Regular checkups not only extend the life of your system, but they also ensure it’s running safely and efficiently year-round—especially during Eden Prairie’s frigid winters.
We specialize in tank and tankless water heater repairs in Eden Prairie and surrounding cities like Bloomington and Chaska.
5. Consider Upgrading to a Tankless Water Heater
If your current system is over 10 years old or struggles to keep up with your household’s hot water demands, it may be time to upgrade.
Benefits of a tankless water heater:
- Endless hot water on demand
- Compact size—great for smaller utility closets or tight spaces
- Up to 30% more energy-efficient than traditional models
- Longer lifespan (typically 20+ years with maintenance)
While tankless systems do cost more upfront, they can offer major savings over time and are an excellent fit for busy families in Eden Prairie and nearby communities.
Thinking about making the switch? Explore our tankless water heater installation services to see if it’s right for your home.
6. Don’t Forget About Water Quality
Your water heater’s performance is directly affected by your home’s water quality. Hard water can cause mineral buildup inside your tank or tankless unit, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of premature failure.
Pro Tip: Installing a whole-home water softener can improve water heater performance and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.
Ask us about adding a water conditioning system to your Eden Prairie home for better efficiency and water quality.
Serving Eden Prairie and Surrounding Areas with Expert Plumbing Services
At Affinity Plumbing & Water Conditioning, we’re proud to serve homeowners in Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Edina, Chanhassen, Bloomington, and surrounding communities. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a brand-new water heater installation, our experienced plumbers are here to help.
We offer:
- Traditional water heater repair and replacement
- Tankless water heater service and installation
- Annual maintenance and system flushing
- Water softener and filtration system installation
Schedule your water heater service today and get peace of mind knowing your system is in expert hands.