Although water heaters may do a diligent job of providing adequate hot water for eight to ten years with minimal water heater maintenance, this often “out of sight, out of mind” condition may not be serving you well in the long run. This appliance, second only to your heating/cooling system in annual home energy consumption, can be made to run more economically and efficiently by performing a few preventative maintenance steps. It’s not uncommon for a unit receiving regular water heater maintenance to enjoy a life span of 20 years.