The everyman's guide to water heaters
Practical maintenance, troubleshooting, buying advice, and step-by-step repair walkthroughs — written in plain English for everyday homeowners.
Latest Guides & Articles
Clear, practical how-tos and explainers for tank and tankless water heaters.
What Is a Water Heater Expansion Tank?
A thermal expansion tank protects your plumbing from the pressure created when water is heated. Learn what an …
Water Heater Heat Traps: What They Are and Why They Matter
Heat traps are small, inexpensive fittings that stop heat from escaping your water heater through the pipes. L…
Water Heater Anode Rods: Aluminum or Magnesium?
The anode rod protects your water heater tank from rust. Learn the difference between aluminum and magnesium a…
What To Do If There's Air in Your Hot Water Lines
Sputtering faucets and banging pipes often mean air is trapped in your hot water lines. Learn the common cause…
Why Is My Hot Water Cloudy or Milky?
Cloudy or milky hot water is usually harmless dissolved air, not contamination. Learn why it happens, how to c…
Replacing a Water Heater Gas Valve
A faulty gas control valve can leave you without hot water or a working pilot. Learn the warning signs and how…
How to Repair and Replace a Water Heater Drain Valve
A leaking or clogged drain valve is a common water heater problem. Learn how to repair a leaky drain valve or …
How to Replace a Water Heater Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
The T&P relief valve is your water heater's most important safety device. Learn how to test it and replace it …
How to Replace a Water Heater Dip Tube
Lukewarm showers? A broken dip tube may be the cause. Follow this step-by-step guide to remove and replace a w…
Circulating Pumps — Why Wait for Hot Water?
Hot water recirculating pumps deliver near-instant hot water at the tap, saving water and time. Learn how they…
How Tankless Water Heaters Work
How tankless (on-demand) water heaters work, how they differ from storage tanks, their pros and cons, and whet…
What Temperature Should a Water Heater Be Set At?
The ideal water heater temperature balances scalding risk against bacterial growth. Learn how to check, choose…
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Buying Guides
How to choose the right water heater — tank vs. tankless, gas vs.…
Browse →How-To Guides
Step-by-step do-it-yourself water heater guides — flushing, maint…
Browse →Informational
Plain-English explainers on how water heaters work, venting, temp…
Browse →Replacing Parts
Part-replacement walkthroughs — dip tubes, drain valves, T&P reli…
Browse →Troubleshooting
Diagnose and fix common water heater problems — cloudy water, air…
Browse →Water Heater Parts
Understand the key components — anode rods, heat traps, and expan…
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