
Water Heater Maintenance
Keep Your Hot Water Flowing with Schaal's Water Heater Maintenance

Nobody wants to step into the shower and get blasted with cold water. That is usually the moment you realize your water heater needed attention weeks ago. Regular water heater maintenance can keep that from happening. At Schaal Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our tune-ups are meant to keep your system running the way it should, cut down on surprise breakdowns, and make sure your hot water is there when you need it.
We have been serving Des Moines and central Iowa for more than 75 years and we back up our work with guarantees so you know the job is done right. Calling Schaal means your water heater gets the attention it needs to handle another Iowa winter.
Our Water Heater Maintenance Service: What We Do
Water heaters run every single day. Between showers, dishes, and laundry, it does not take long for wear and tear to show up. Our maintenance visits go over the whole system, step by step:
- We check the tank for leaks, rust, or corrosion.
- We drain and flush out the sediment that builds at the bottom. That grit is what makes heaters noisy and less efficient.
- We inspect the anode rod. It is a small part, but it keeps the tank from corroding too soon.
- We test the temperature and pressure relief valve, a key safety feature.
- Burners or heating elements get cleaned so they heat water quickly.
- All valves and connections are looked over for leaks.
- On gas units, we check the vent pipe to make sure it is clear.
- At the end, you get a rundown of what we found and any recommendations for the future.
The Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance
A lot of homeowners ask if maintenance is really worth it. Here is why it is:
- A clean, maintained system lasts longer, which means you do not have to replace it as soon.
- Sediment removal helps the heater run more efficiently, which saves you money each month.
- Little issues get caught early instead of turning into costly repairs or emergencies.
- Keeping up with service keeps your manufacturer’s warranty valid.
- Most importantly, you know your system is safe and ready.
It might not seem like a big deal when the water is running fine, but you notice the difference on cold mornings when everyone in the house needs a shower. A heater that has been serviced just works better. Many families in Des Moines have told us they didn’t realize how much faster their water heated up until after their first tune-up. That efficiency adds up over the years, keeping your home comfortable while also saving money on your utility bills.
The Cost of Water Heater Neglect
Skipping maintenance usually shows up in ways you can’t miss. Rust-colored water from your faucets, loud banging or popping sounds from the tank, or hot water that runs out faster than it used to. In the worst cases, the tank leaks or fails completely, and that often happens right in the middle of an Iowa cold snap.
When that happens, you are not just dealing with the cost of a new water heater. A leaking tank can damage floors, walls, and anything you have stored nearby. We often see basements in older Des Moines homes where one bad leak ruined carpet, furniture, or storage boxes. Compared to that mess, the cost of a yearly tune-up is small. Staying ahead with regular service is the smarter choice.
Trust Schaal for Your Water Heater Maintenance Needs
Schaal Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has been part of the Des Moines community since 1946. We know the plumbing systems in local homes and how Iowa’s weather puts them to the test. Families here choose us because we send trained, certified technicians, we stand behind our work, and we treat every home with care.
Do not wait for your water heater to quit. Call Schaal today to schedule maintenance. We will help you extend the life of your system, lower your bills, and keep the hot water flowing when your family needs it most.

