As temperatures rise and daily routines shift with the seasons, homeowners often overlook a critical component of their home's comfort system: the water heater. While heat might be the last thing on your mind during warmer months, summer water heater maintenance is just as important—if not more so—for ensuring year-round efficiency, safety, and longevity. Let's explore everything you need to know about summer water heater care, including why it's essential, how to prevent common issues, and the steps you can take today to protect your home.

Why Summer Water Heater Maintenance Matters

Even though you're likely using less hot water during the summer, your water heater is still at work. Warm weather doesn’t mean your water heater takes a vacation. In fact, summer brings a unique set of challenges that can shorten your system’s lifespan or compromise its performance, including:

• Hard water sediment builds up faster during warmer weather due to increased mineral activity, especially in regions with high calcium or magnesium content. This sediment can cause water heater problems and smelly water. 
• Vacation mode misuse or disuse during travel can lead to corrosion or bacterial growth inside the tank.
• Increased humidity in some areas can contribute to rust or mold around the heater.

Proactive maintenance in summer ensures your system will be in top condition before the heavy demand of winter returns. Conversely, ignoring your water heater until winter can lead to unexpected failures, cold showers, or emergency repairs when you need it most.

Common Summer Water Heater Issues

Many homeowners don’t associate summer with water heater problems, but issues can arise from seasonal changes in use patterns and environmental conditions. Some of the most common water heater problems in summer include:

• Sediment buildup: Hard water minerals settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing heating efficiency and possibly damaging the tank lining. As mentioned above, the sediment builds more quickly during the warmer months. 
• Thermostat calibration issues: Many homeowners need to turn up their water heater in the winter to combat cold temperatures, but this switch is easy to forget once the warm weather rolls around. If your water heater is set too high during the summer, the water can scald members of your home, especially children, older adults, or vulnerable family members.
• Rust and corrosion: High humidity and idle time can speed up water heater tank corrosion, especially in older systems or those with a deteriorating anode rod.
  Bacterial growth: When hot water sits unused in a tank, especially in warm weather, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria like Legionella. With more vacation time and summer travels, your water heater can be left vulnerable. 
  

Professional maintenance can help prevent or mitigate the impacts of these issues on your water heater.

Summer Water Heater Maintenance: Step-by-Step

Ready to protect your water heater? Here’s your streamlined, effective plan to make sure your water heater stays in peak condition through the summer and beyond.

• Lower the Temperature Setting: In summer, you don’t need scalding hot water. A professional will set your thermostat to a maximum of 120°F (49°C) to save energy, reduce pressure on the tank, and prevent accidental burns.
• Flush the Tank: Especially in Sacramento, minerals and sediment accumulate inside your water heater tank. An expert will drain your tank to remove buildup, improve efficiency, and prevent strange noises or premature failure.
• Inspect the Anode Rod: This sacrificial rod prevents the tank from rusting. If it's heavily corroded or less than half an inch thick, your plumbing professional will replace it. Check this at least once every 1–2 years, especially in older tanks.
• Check for Leaks or Moisture: Your maintenance professional will look around the base of your tank for any dampness, rust, or corrosion. Early signs of leakage often go unnoticed in humid summer months.
• Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (T&P Valve): This safety component prevents your tank from exploding under pressure.
• Clear the Area Around Your Tank: Make sure the area is free of clutter to improve airflow and prevent fire hazards. This is especially crucial for gas-powered water heaters.
• Consider a Vacation Setting: If you’re leaving town for an extended time, either turn your unit off or set it to vacation mode (many modern units have this feature) to reduce energy use and limit wear.
• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Even in summer, insulating your pipes can maintain water temperature and improve overall efficiency. It also prevents condensation from forming on cold water lines.

Even if you’re comfortable handling basic maintenance, a licensed plumber can spot early signs of trouble you might miss. A once-a-year professional checkup is a smart preventative measure.

Tank vs. Tankless: Summer Maintenance Differences

If you have a tankless water heater, your summer maintenance checklist will differ slightly. An expert will complete specialty maintenance steps, including:

• Descale the system annually using a manufacturer-approved cleaning solution.
• Clean or replace the water filter inside the unit.
• Ensure the air intake and exhaust vents are free of obstructions, especially pollen or debris from summer storms.
  

Tankless systems are more efficient overall, but can suffer just as much from hard water and improper maintenance if ignored.

Bonus Tips for Energy Efficiency

Summer is also a great time to optimize your home’s energy use. A well-maintained water heater can reduce your utility bills year-round. Consider these upgrades or changes:

• Install a timer to shut the water heater off during low-use periods.
• Switch to a heat pump water heater for even greater efficiency (these work well in warm climates).
• Add a water softener to reduce mineral buildup if you have hard water—this extends the life of your unit significantly.
  

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Maintenance can stretch the life of your unit, but no appliance lasts forever. Most tank-style water heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless systems can go up to 20 with proper care. If your water heater is over a decade old and showing signs of wear (rusty water, leaks, inconsistent heating), summer is a smart time to replace it—before you're caught in the cold with no hot water.

Summer might not seem like the time to think about your water heater, but taking a few preventative steps now can save you from costly repairs or replacements later. 

Sacramento Water Heater Maintenance: Boyd

If you are ready to schedule water heater maintenance, the local professionals at Boyd are here for you. We proudly offer water heater maintenance, repair, and replacement services to the greater Sacramento area, including Rancho Cordova, Fair Oaks, Orangevale, and beyond. Our specialists invite you to give us a call at (279) 215-8674 or explore our coupons to get started today!

As the Sacramento summer approaches with its triple-digit temperatures and dry climate, homeowners and property managers have a lot to prepare for; but one thing that's often overlooked (until it's too late) is the sewer system. When temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with clogged pipes, backups, and unpleasant odors.

Whether you're managing a business or maintaining a home, your sewer system needs seasonal attention. Here's what every Sacramento property owner should know to keep things flowing smoothly all summer long.

Why Summer Is a Critical Time for Sewer Maintenance?

It is easy to associate sewer issues with heavy rains and winter storms, but Sacramento's hot, dry summer poses its own set of challenges. With increased water usage (thanks to gardening, irrigation, and guests), higher temperatures that accelerate the breakdown of waste, tree root intrusion, and reduced moisture in the soil that can shift pipes, summer is a pressure-cooker for sewer systems.

In fact, local plumbers often see a spike in service calls during the summer months. Foul odors, slow drains, and even full-blown backups become more common when sewer systems aren’t prepared for the season.

Key Signs Your Sewer System Needs Attention

The last thing you need during pool parties or those scorching summer days where you just want to stay inside is a sewer issue. Before the hottest part of the year sets in, be alert to these early warning signs of sewer trouble:

• Frequent clogs in sinks, tubs, or toilets
• Unpleasant smells coming from drains or around your property
• Gurgling sounds when water drains
• Water backing up into showers or tubs
• Slower than normal drainage
• Patches of unusually lush grass or pooling water in your yard (a possible sign of a sewer leak)

If you notice any of these symptoms, don't wait until you're facing an emergency. Preventive maintenance now can save you thousands later.

The Sacramento Sewer Challenge: What Makes It Unique?

Sacramento homes and infrastructure face some distinct challenges due to geography and climate. Many older homes in regions like Rancho Cordova, Sacramento, Orangevale, and Citrus Heights have clay or cast iron pipes that are decades old. These are more vulnerable to cracking and root intrusion, particularly during dry summers when tree roots go hunting for moisture—and often find it in your sewer line.

Another unique factor? Sacramento's growing population and expanding urban infrastructure. Increased demand on aging systems can lead to more frequent backups, especially in densely populated areas or during events like the California State Fair, when water usage spikes dramatically.

What You Can Do: Summer Sewer Prep Checklist

Getting your sewer system ready for summer doesn’t have to be a major undertaking. With a few smart steps, you can avoid costly disasters and keep your system running efficiently.

Here’s a simplified summer sewer prep checklist:

• Schedule a sewer line inspection. This is especially important if your home is more than 20 years old. A camera inspection can spot cracks, clogs, or intrusions before they become a bigger issue.
• Hydro jet your lines. High-pressure water cleaning can clear out grease, debris, and minor tree roots that are already intruding.
• Inspect and maintain cleanouts. Make sure your sewer cleanouts are accessible and free of blockages. This is your main access point in an emergency.
• Limit what goes down the drain. Avoid flushing wipes (even "flushable" ones), grease, or fibrous food scraps that can clog your system.
• Install a backwater valve. If you don’t already have one, this device can prevent sewage from backing up into your home during high-volume situations.
• Conserve water. Spread out water use to reduce strain on your pipes. For example, don’t run the dishwasher and washing machine at the same time.
• Address tree root problems. If you’ve had root issues in the past, you may need a sewer pipe lining service or a trenchless sewer replacement.
• Know your plumbing emergency contacts. Make sure you have the number of a trusted local plumber who offers emergency service, just in case.

How Often Should You Get a Sewer Inspection in Sacramento?

For most homes in Sacramento, an annual inspection is a good baseline. However, if your property is older, has large trees nearby, or you've experienced past sewer issues, you might benefit from biannual checks—especially before and after summer.

Many local plumbing companies offer maintenance packages that include camera inspections and hydro jetting at a reduced rate. These are often more cost-effective than emergency repairs and can extend the life of your entire plumbing system.

Environmental and Health Concerns in Hot Weather

Sewer issues don’t just damage your home—they can also affect your health. In hot Sacramento summers, bacteria thrive. A sewer backup can expose you and your family to pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and hepatitis A. Foul odors can also cause problems for homeowners. 

Outdoor leaks or backups can contaminate groundwater or stormwater systems, which is a growing concern as the city pushes toward sustainable water use and reduced runoff pollution.

Being proactive not only protects your investment—it also contributes to a healthier, cleaner Sacramento community.

When to Call a Sewer Professional

Sewer problems aren’t the place to cut corners. If you suspect a problem or haven’t had your system checked in years, call in a licensed Sacramento plumber. Look for companies that offer:

• No-dig trenchless repair options
  
• Free camera inspections with service
• Emergency availability
• Knowledge of local city codes and permitting
• Positive local reviews and references

Getting your sewer system ready for summer is one of the most important (yet often neglected) aspects of seasonal home maintenance in Sacramento. The stakes are high—your health, home, and wallet are all on the line. By investing in a seasonal inspection, addressing known issues, and staying mindful of what goes down your drains, you can avoid major headaches and enjoy a worry-free summer.

Drain Cleaning In Sacramento: Boyd Plumbing

Need help with your Sacramento-area sewer system? The local sewer, drain, and plumbing experts at Boyd are here to help. We proudly serve local homes and businesses throughout Sacramento, including those in Rancho Cordova, Lincoln, Davis, Roseville, and beyond. Our specialists invite you to give us a call today at (279) 215-8679 to schedule a summer sewer inspection before the heat hits its peak.