Draining a water heater helps it last longer and work better. Dirt and minerals settle at the bottom of the tank, blocking heat and wasting energy.  This can cause loud popping, rusty water or less hot water in your home. Draining removes these problems and can add years to your heater’s life.  But water heaters reach very hot temperatures and use gas or electricity, which can be dangerous. For safe and expert help, our plumber team in North Jersey provides water heater draining that protects your home and family. Why Regular Water Heater Draining Matters Every water heater collects dirt and minerals, even if it is new. This buildup makes the heater work harder, raising energy bills without giving more hot water. Signs include brown or rusty water and loud popping sounds. Yearly draining keeps water clear, reduces noise and adds 3–5 years of life. In Cranford and similar NJ areas, hard water makes buildup worse. Skipping draining often leads to costly breakdowns or even full replacements. Spending a little time or money on yearly draining helps you avoid surprise failures and the high cost of replacing a heater too soon. Step by Step: How to Flush a Water Heater Safely Flushing clears dirt from the tank so your water stays hot and clean. These steps must be followed in order to prevent leaks or damage. Many families in Cranford call water heater professionals for quick and safe services, but you can also do it carefully at home. Here are the steps to flush a water heater safely: Turn off the power breaker for the electric, and set the gas dial to “pilot”. Close the cold water valve by turning it fully clockwise. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and lead water outside. Open a hot tap nearby so air enters and prevents a vacuum lock. Slowly open the drain valve until water runs clear, 20–30 minutes. Run cold water briefly to push out the last dirt and sediment. How to Refill a Water Heater Without Causing Damage Refilling a water heater the wrong way can ruin heating parts. Always take your time to refill slowly and check for leaks. Keep a hot tap open while filling so air escapes.  In North Jersey, where water is often hard, careful refilling also helps protect against scaling. Once the tank is full and the air cleared, turn power or gas back on only after checking everything.  Proper steps keep your refill water heater process safe and protect warranty coverage. With patience, you’ll have steady hot water again without damaging expensive parts. Gas vs Electric Water Heater Maintenance Differences Both gas and electric water heaters need draining, but the safety rules are not the same. Following the right steps keeps your home safe and prevents expensive mistakes. Always check your heater type before starting any work. Key differences between gas and electric water heater draining include: Gas Heaters: turn dial to “pilot”, relight carefully after tank refill. Electric Heaters: shut off breaker, never thermostat, restore power only when full. Hybrid Heat Pump Models: check the manual for safe shutdown and restart steps. Professional Help: best for gas systems with carbon monoxide risks. Tankless Water Heater Descaling Process Unlike tanks, tankless water heaters need descaling to remove buildup inside pipes. Special valves allow cleaning fluid to circulate without removing plumbing. Plain vinegar works for light buildup, while a water heater descaling solution works better in hard water areas like Union County. Let the solution run 45–60 minutes, then rinse with fresh water for 10–15 minutes. Always clean the filter afterward to keep water flowing. Only use manufacturer-approved solutions to protect your warranty. Hard water in New Jersey often means doing this twice a year to prevent expensive repairs and keep hot water steady. Warning Signs Your Water Heater Needs Immediate Attention Water heaters give small warnings before big problems happen. Catching these early keeps your family safe and saves money on repairs. If you notice any of these issues, act quickly to avoid damage, leaks or losing hot water when you need it most. Look for these warning signs in your water heater: Loud rumbling or popping showing heavy dirt buildup inside the tank. Brown or cloudy hot water is often caused by rust or sediment. Running out of hot water faster than normal due to dirt buildup. Hot water turning hot, then cold again, showing tank issues. Sudden high energy bills without changes in water use. Water leaks or pooling around the tank needing immediate repair. Heaters older than 8 years need frequent checks and service. DIY Maintenance vs Professional Service Comparison Some homeowners use drain heaters to save money. While DIY is possible, risks include burns, electrical shock, broken parts and canceled warranties. Professionals provide full inspections, flush dirt safely and keep coverage valid.  Our licensed plumbers at American Way Plumbing also test water quality, which helps choose the right maintenance schedule for local conditions. Professional draining in Union County areas such as Cranford usually costs $75–$250, far less than replacing a heater. Jobs are finished in under an hour, while DIY may take three. Stuck valves or gas systems should always be left to experts for safe and lasting results. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should I drain my water heater? Once a year is best. Homes with hard water may need draining twice yearly. Is draining the same as flushing the heater?  Draining empties water, while flushing removes dirt fully. Flushing keeps heaters cleaner. What happens if I restore power too soon?  Heating parts can burn out if power is on before the tank is full. Do tankless heaters need special solutions? Yes, it is advisable to use brand-safe descaling solutions. Vinegar works only for light buildup. Why does my heater make loud popping noises? Sediment traps steam. Popping means it’s time to flush immediately. How much does professional flushing cost in Cranford, NJ? Usually $75–$250, depending on service type and emergency needs. Save Time &

A water heater anode rod is a small, low-cost part that keeps your tank safe from rust. It wears out first, so the tank does not.  With care, this rod can make your water heater last more than 15 years instead of just 8. Most rods cost less than $50, but if you ignore it, you might pay over $1,200 simply for a new tank.  Knowing when to check and replace the rod helps your water heater work better and last longer. Families in Cranford and neighbouring areas in North Jersey trust our licensed plumbers at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to handle this job. What Is an Anode Rod in a Water Heater? Inside your water heater is a rod made of metal, this rod is called an anode rod. It slowly wears away, so the tank itself does not rust. If the rod is not replaced, the steel tank can rust and leak in just a few years. With a good rod, your heater can last 12 to 15 years. Anode rods come in different types. Magnesium rods protect best, aluminium-zinc rods help stop bad smells, and powered rods can last for many years. Choosing the right one helps keep your water heater safe and working well. When Should You Replace an Anode Rod? Homeowners should check their anode rod 6 months after installation, then annually to track wear. Most rods need replacement every 3 to 5 years, depending on water conditions, usage and household size. Hard or softened water accelerates corrosion, while private wells often worsen odour and rod depletion. Here are the warning signs that indicate your anode rod needs replacement: Rotten-egg odour from hot water taps due to sulfur bacteria. Rust-colored water signaling failing corrosion protection inside the tank. Core wire is visible through the depleted metal surface of the rod. Diameter shrinking below 3/8 inch from the original 3/4–1 inch size. Heavy calcium buildup coats the rod in hard water homes. Hot Water Heater Anode Rod Removal: Step-by-Step Basics Replacing an anode rod requires the right tools, clearance space and careful safety steps. Always disconnect power and relieve water pressure before starting. Improper removal can damage threads, so that some situations may require a professional plumber’s help. Here are the steps that you have to follow for safe water heater anode rod removal: Shut off the power at the breaker or gas control to prevent heating. Drain 2-3 gallons of water to relieve internal tank pressure. Remove the insulation cap and clean the area around the hex head. Loosen the rod using a 1-1/16 inch socket and breaker bar carefully. Replace the rod if the core wire is visible or the diameter measures under 3/8 inch. Restart the tank by refilling slowly, bleeding air and checking for leaks. Changing the Anode Rod in a Rheem Water Heater Rheem water heaters are common across Union County, and their anode design varies by model. Most Rheem units have hex-head rods beneath foam insulation caps, while others combine the anode with the hot water outlet nipple. Removing these requires disconnecting the outlet pipe first. Failing to maintain your Rheem’s anode rod voids the manufacturer’s warranty, leaving you at risk for expensive replacement costs. Replacement parts differ by model, such as 9007876005 for 40-gallon and 9007877005 for 50-gallon units. For rods older than 5 years, professional extraction is recommended since calcification can lock threads tight. Common Problem: Rotten Egg Smell in Hot Water Many Cranford homeowners report a foul sulfur or rotten-egg odour from hot water. This is typically caused by sulfate-reducing bacteria reacting with magnesium rods to release hydrogen sulfide gas. Fortunately, several solutions can eliminate or reduce the smell effectively. Solutions for sulfur odour include: Switch to an aluminium-zinc anode for odour-resistant protection. Install a powered titanium rod to prevent rotten smells permanently. Disinfect the tank with a chlorination treatment to kill bacteria. Add a whole-home carbon filter to remove sulfur compounds. Call a professional plumber for water testing and permanent treatment. Which Anode Rod Should You Choose? Choosing the right anode rod depends on water chemistry, usage and odour issues. Magnesium is the most affordable and effective option for municipal water, costing around $25–$35. However, magnesium corrodes faster in softened water and worsens odour in sulfur-prone wells. Aluminium-zinc rods last longer in softened water and minimise smells, but provide slightly less corrosion protection. Powered titanium rods cost $150–$200 upfront but never need replacement, eliminate odours, and work best in aggressive water. Our plumbers in New Jersey test water quality during service calls to recommend the best rod type for your home and extend heater lifespan. Do Tankless or Special Water Heaters Have Anode Rods? Not every water heater requires an anode rod. Tankless systems don’t need them since they have no storage tank, relying instead on regular descaling to prevent buildup. Some models, like Rheem Marathon, use polyethylene tank liners, eliminating the need for corrosion protection.  Bradford White heaters integrate anodes into hot water nipples rather than separate rods, requiring a different removal process. Commercial glass-lined tanks may have dual rods for extended protection under high demand. Hybrid heat pump heaters still require anode rods since they use traditional storage tanks. Always check your specific heater’s manual to confirm maintenance needs. Local Insights: Water Quality in Cranford NJ & Surrounding Areas Along With Anode Rod Wear Water supply comes from a mix of municipal sources and private wells, with hardness levels ranging from 120 to 150 ppm on average. Private wells, especially near the Rahway River, often test higher in sulfur, creating more odour complaints. Homes using water softeners see anode rods deplete almost twice as fast due to ion exchange chemistry. Older houses with pre-1990 water heaters face even greater risk of corrosion. Regular professional inspections ensure that rods are replaced on time and water chemistry is tested properly. Our plumbers in Cranford and other Union County areas use water testing kits to recommend the best rod type. DIY vs Professional

Hot water is something most families use every day without thinking. But when the shower turns cold, water looks rusty, or a leak shows up in the basement, it can cause stress and cost a lot to fix.  That’s why having a water heater maintenance checklist is so helpful for New Jersey homes. Simple care can stop problems, save money on bills and make your heater last longer. This blog will guide you through easy monthly checks and key yearly steps. Our licensed plumber team at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Cooling uses this same list to keep homes warm and comfortable. Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters for NJ Homeowners Regular care can stop 8 out of 10 breakdowns. It keeps hot water steady, lowers bills and makes tanks last longer. In North New Jersey, hard water and freezing winters put extra stress on heaters. Neglect can mean floods, gas leaks or unsafe pressure. It can also shorten lifespan by years. Regular water heater inspection makes sure your system meets code, runs safely and avoids water damage from sudden leaks. Monthly Quick Checks Every Homeowner Can Do Small problems often start quietly, but a quick monthly check helps you find trouble before it grows. These 5-minute steps don’t need tools, just your eyes and ears. Catching early warning signs can save you from a costly breakdown. If you notice anything serious, call a plumber right away. Here are simple monthly checks to keep your system safe: Walk around the tank and look for puddles or rust. Listen closely for popping, hissing or rumbling inside the tank. Check that the thermostat dial is set at 120°F. Look at the relief valve pipe for drips or corrosion. Make sure pilot flames burn steady blue, not yellow or flickering. Smell for any sulfur or rotten egg odors near the heater. Annual Professional Maintenance Tasks That Save Money Getting your water heater checked once a year keeps it safe and running longer. Regular visits cut energy bills and stop costly emergencies. In New Jersey, where hard water causes buildup, professional care matters even more. A licensed plumber knows exactly what to check. Here are important tasks your plumber should do each year: Flush several gallons from the tank to remove sediment buildup. Test the relief valve carefully and replace it if leaking. Inspect the anode rod closely and replace it when it looks worn. Clean burners and vents on gas units for safe operation. Test heating elements and gaskets on electric heaters for leaks. Check expansion tank pressure to keep the water system safe. Tankless Water Heater Maintenance for NJ Homes Tankless water heaters are popular because they give endless hot water and save energy. But even these “low-maintenance” units need care to last. Hard water in areas such as Cranford, NJ, builds up minerals inside the heater, which can cause clogs and shorten its life.  A licensed plumber, like American Way Plumbing, can descale your system every 6 to 12 months. With regular service, your tankless heater stays efficient and runs smoothly. Seasonal Maintenance: Prepping Your Water Heater Before NJ Winter Winters get very cold, and that makes your water heater work much harder. A full check-up helps stop pipes from freezing, leaks from starting and costly breakdowns in the middle of winter. Here are easy things to do before winter starts: Test your expansion tank to handle winter pressure changes safely. Keep heater spaces warmer than 55°F to stop pipes from freezing. Mark shut off the valves clearly so the family can use them quickly. Bundle furnace tune-ups with water heater checks for full protection. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should I flush my water heater?  Once a year for most homes. With hard water or visible sediment, every 6 months. Do tankless heaters need maintenance? Yes, descale every 6-12 months and clean filters regularly. What is an anode rod? A metal bar that protects the tank from rust. Replace every 3-5 years. Can I do maintenance myself?  You can do monthly checks and basic flushing. Leave gas, electric and valve work to licensed plumbers. What does an inspection cost in Cranford, NJ?  Basic checks are $80-$120. Full service with flushing is $150-$200. How long will a maintained tank last?  Often 12-15 years. Tankless units can reach 20 years with care. When to Call a Plumber in New Jersey?  Sometimes small water heater problems turn into big issues if ignored. Leaks, strange noises or no hot water at all, are clear signs that it’s time to get professional help. Our licensed plumbers in North Jersey know how to fix problems quickly and safely. If you notice rust-colored water, gas smells, or your heater just isn’t keeping up, don’t wait. Contact us to keep your family safe and comfortable.

Seeing water around your water heater is scary. It makes you worry about flooding, high bills and costly repairs.  A water heater leaking from the bottom does not always mean you need a new tank right away. Sometimes the problem is simple, like a loose valve or small fitting. Other times, it points to a bigger issue that needs quick replacement. In New Jersey, this problem is common. Cold winters make heaters work harder, and hard water builds up inside tanks, both add stress that can lead to leaks.  This guide explains safety steps, common causes, quick checks, repair vs replacement decisions and how to stop future leaks. Our licensed plumber team at American Way Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning offers same-day water heater leak repairs to keep your home safe. Safety First: What to Do Immediately If you see water around your heater, the most important thing is to keep everyone safe. Water can cause shocks with electric heaters, and gas heaters can be a fire risk. Acting fast helps protect your home and family while you wait for help. Once it’s safe, follow these steps to limit damage: Turn off the power at the breaker for electric units, or turn the gas dial to “OFF” for gas heaters. Close the cold water valve above the heater to stop more water from flowing in. Take pictures of the damage for your insurance company. Move furniture, boxes and other items away from the wet area. Most Common Causes of Bottom Leaks Water at the bottom of your heater can happen for many reasons, and not all of them mean the whole tank is broken. Some causes are small and easy to fix, while others show it may be time for a new system. Knowing the possible reasons helps you understand what your plumber may find when checking your unit: Here are the most common causes of bottom leaks: Leaking Drain Valve or Pipe: Washers wear out, threads loosen or rust forms. This is the most frequent cause of a leaking drain pipe in older units. T&P Relief Valve Discharge: The valve releases hot water when pressure gets too high. An AO Smith relief valve leak or a similar brand problem often signals unsafe pressure. Internal Tank Corrosion: Rust creates small holes inside the tank. This usually means the heater has reached the end of its 8-12 year life. Heating Element Gasket Leaks: In electric units, water escapes where elements connect, then runs down and pools at the bottom. Condensation or Loose Fittings: Cold water entering a hot tank causes condensation. Loose top fittings also drip water that slides down. Expansion Tank Failure: When the extra tank fails, pressure forces water through relief valves, making it look like a bottom leak. How to Diagnose the Source Quickly You can often figure out where the leak is coming from with a quick look. This helps you explain the problem to the plumber and makes repairs faster. Check the relief valve pipe for any dripping or rust stains. Look at the drain valve near the bottom for puddles. On electric heaters, see if the covers for the heating parts look wet. Use a cloth to wipe the top connections and check for drips. A flashlight can help you spot orange rust lines at the seams, and a mirror works for hidden spots at the back or bottom. These simple checks give you a good idea of the source before help arrives. Repair or Replace: Making the Right Decision A water heater leak does not always mean you need a new tank. Small problems like a drain valve, relief valve, gasket or loose pipe can usually be fixed for about $150 to $300. But if the tank has rust, holes or leaks along the seams, then the repair is not safe. In that case, replacement is the better option. New water heaters cost about $1200 to $2500 and also save 20 to 30 percent on energy bills. A simple rule is this: if your heater is younger than 7 years, repairs often work fine. If it is older and keeps breaking, replacing it saves more money in the longer run. What If It’s Leaking from the Top? Sometimes water at the top of the heater runs down the sides and looks like a bottom leak. This can trick homeowners and cause worry. Top leaks often come from loose inlet or outlet fittings, worn seals on the anode rod, or a relief valve dripping from the top. Rusty pipe connections are also common in heaters over 5 years old. The good news is that these issues usually cost less to fix than bottom tank leaks. A plumber can tighten parts, replace seals or change small fittings without needing to replace the whole water heater. Preventing Future Leaks & Extending Lifespan You can stop leaks by taking care of your water heater before trouble starts. In counties such as Essex County, the water has lots of minerals, and these can hurt your tank if you don’t clean it. Simple care helps your heater last longer, saves money and keeps hot water ready for your family. Here are easy steps to keep your heater safe: Flush the tank once a year to clear dirt and minerals. Test the relief valve every 3 months and change it every 3-5 years. Check the anode rod every 2-3 years and replace it if worn. Keep the water set at 120°F to save energy and stay safe. Have inspections before winter when heaters work the hardest. Use a water softener in areas with hard water. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is it safe to keep using a leaking water heater? No, leaks create flooding risks, shock hazards and cause mold growth. Shut it down and call a plumber. Can tightening a drain valve stop the leak completely? It depends, worn valves usually need replacement, while over-tightening is a temporary solution and has the potential to make it worse. Do all leaks