Your water heater works hard every day to provide hot water for showers, dishes, laundry, and more. Most Houston homeowners do not think about their water heater until it stops working, but regular maintenance can extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and help you avoid expensive emergency repairs. Here are the essential water heater maintenance tips every homeowner should know.

Flush Your Water Heater Tank Annually

Over time, sediment from Houston’s hard water builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment reduces heating efficiency and can cause rumbling or popping noises. Flushing the tank once a year removes this buildup and helps your water heater run more efficiently. To flush your tank, turn off the power or gas, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom, and let the water run until it comes out clear. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, call Texas Premier Plumbing for professional water heater maintenance.

Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve, also called the T&P valve, is a critical safety feature on every water heater. It releases pressure if the water temperature or pressure gets too high, preventing a potentially dangerous situation. Test this valve at least once a year by lifting the lever and letting it snap back. You should hear water flowing into the drain tube. If the valve does not release water or continues to drip after testing, it needs to be replaced by a licensed plumber.

Set the Right Temperature

Many water heaters come from the factory set at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Department of Energy recommends setting it to 120 degrees. This lower temperature reduces the risk of scalding, slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your pipes, and can save you money on energy costs. Adjusting the thermostat is a simple task that can be done on the front of most gas water heaters or behind the access panel on electric models.

Inspect the Anode Rod

The anode rod is a metal rod inside your water heater tank that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank from rusting. Over time, the anode rod corrodes and needs to be replaced. Check the anode rod every two to three years by unscrewing it from the top of the tank. If it is heavily corroded or less than half an inch thick, it is time for a replacement. A new anode rod costs much less than replacing an entire water heater.

Know the Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Service

Even with regular maintenance, water heaters eventually need professional attention. Call Texas Premier Plumbing at 713-955-1919 if you notice any of these warning signs: inconsistent water temperature, rusty or discolored hot water, strange noises from the tank, water pooling around the base, or a significant decrease in hot water supply. Our experienced Houston plumbers can diagnose the issue and recommend whether a repair or water heater replacement is the best option for your home.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

A typical tank water heater lasts 8 to 12 years. If your unit is approaching or past that age and requires frequent repairs, replacing it with a new high-efficiency model or a tankless water heater may save you money in the long run. Texas Premier Plumbing offers free estimates on water heater installation and can help you choose the right unit for your household size and hot water needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Finding a reliable plumber in Houston can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Whether you need a simple faucet repair or a major sewer line replacement, choosing the right plumbing company makes all the difference. Here are the key factors Houston homeowners should consider when selecting a plumber.

Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

The most important step when hiring a plumber in Houston is verifying they hold a valid Texas plumbing license. Licensed plumbers have completed the required training, passed state examinations, and meet the standards set by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Additionally, make sure your plumber carries liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. This protects you from being held responsible if an accident occurs during the job. A reputable Houston plumbing company like Texas Premier Plumbing is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind.

Read Reviews and Ask for References

Online reviews are one of the best ways to evaluate a Houston plumber before hiring them. Check Google reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau for consistent feedback from past customers. Look for patterns in the reviews rather than focusing on a single comment. A plumber who consistently receives praise for punctuality, fair pricing, and quality work is a strong choice. Texas Premier Plumbing has earned the Angie’s List Super Service Award in both 2019 and 2020, reflecting our commitment to customer satisfaction.

Get Written Estimates and Compare Pricing

A trustworthy plumber will always provide a written estimate before starting work. Be cautious of any plumbing company that refuses to give you an upfront price or pressures you into immediate decisions. While you should not automatically choose the cheapest option, comparing estimates from two or three Houston plumbers gives you a fair idea of what the job should cost. Watch out for unusually low bids, as they often lead to hidden charges or subpar work.

Ensure They Offer 24/7 Emergency Service

Plumbing emergencies do not follow a convenient schedule. A burst pipe at 2 AM or a sewer backup on a holiday weekend demands immediate attention. When choosing a Houston plumber, prioritize companies that offer around-the-clock emergency plumbing service. This way, you already have a trusted professional to call when disaster strikes rather than scrambling to find help during a crisis. Texas Premier Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency plumbing service throughout the Houston area, so you are never left without help when you need it most.

Look for Experience and Range of Services

Experience matters in plumbing. A company that has been serving Houston for many years has likely encountered every type of plumbing problem and knows how to resolve it efficiently. Additionally, look for a plumber who offers a comprehensive range of services including drain cleaning, water heater repair and installation, sewer line service, hydro jetting, and video camera inspection. A full-service plumbing company can handle all your needs under one roof, saving you time and ensuring consistent quality across different types of work.

Contact Texas Premier Plumbing Today

When you are ready to work with a plumber who meets all of these criteria, call Texas Premier Plumbing at 713-955-1919. As a family-owned and operated plumbing company, we have proudly served Houston and the surrounding areas for over 20 years. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, our licensed team is here to provide honest, reliable, and affordable plumbing service. Visit our services page to learn more about what we offer, or contact us to schedule your appointment today.

Know When a Plumbing Emergency Requires Immediate Attention

Plumbing emergencies do not follow a schedule. They can strike at any hour, on any day, and often at the worst possible time. For Houston homeowners, knowing the difference between a minor inconvenience and a true plumbing emergency can save thousands of dollars in water damage and repair costs. Texas Premier Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency plumbing service throughout the Houston metro area.

Burst or Frozen Pipes

While Houston does not experience harsh winters often, the occasional freeze can catch homeowners off guard. When temperatures drop below freezing, exposed pipes in attics, garages, and exterior walls can freeze and burst. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, causing severe structural damage to your home. If you discover a burst pipe, immediately shut off your main water supply and call a licensed plumber.

Sewage Backup in Your Home

A sewage backup is not only inconvenient but presents serious health hazards. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria that can cause illness. If you notice sewage coming up through floor drains, toilets, or bathtubs, this is a critical emergency. Common causes in Houston include tree root intrusion into sewer lines and aging clay pipe deterioration. Our team uses video camera inspection to quickly identify the source of the problem.

No Water Supply

Losing your water supply entirely is a clear emergency situation. Before calling a plumber, check with your neighbors to determine if the issue is isolated to your home or affects the entire area. If it is only your property, the cause could be a main line break, a failed pressure regulator, or a serious leak underground. Our experienced plumbers can diagnose the issue and restore your water supply quickly.

Gas Line Leaks

If you smell rotten eggs or sulfur near your water heater, stove, or gas lines, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and require professional repair. Texas Premier Plumbing has licensed gas line plumbers who can safely repair or replace damaged gas lines in your Houston home.

Major Water Leaks Causing Damage

Any leak that is actively causing damage to your floors, walls, or ceilings requires immediate attention. Houston’s humidity makes water damage particularly problematic, as mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. Acting quickly to stop the leak and dry the affected area is essential to preventing costly mold remediation.

Trust Texas Premier Plumbing for Emergency Service

When a plumbing emergency strikes your Houston home, you need a company that responds fast and gets the job done right. Texas Premier Plumbing has been the trusted choice for Houston area families since 1989. We are available around the clock at 713-955-1919 for all your emergency plumbing needs. Do not wait for a small problem to become a disaster. Call us today.

Why Houston Homes Need Regular Plumbing Maintenance

Living in Houston, TX means dealing with unique plumbing challenges that homeowners in other parts of the country rarely encounter. From our clay-heavy soil shifting foundation pipes to the extreme heat affecting outdoor plumbing, Houston homeowners need to stay proactive about their plumbing systems. At Texas Premier Plumbing, we have been serving the Houston metro area since 1989 and have seen these issues firsthand.

1. Slab Leak Detection and Repair

Houston sits on expansive clay soil that shifts dramatically with moisture changes. This constant movement puts stress on the water lines running beneath your home’s foundation, leading to slab leaks. Signs include unexplained increases in your water bill, warm spots on your floor, or the sound of running water when all fixtures are off. Our licensed plumbers use advanced leak detection equipment to pinpoint slab leaks without unnecessary digging.

2. Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines

Houston’s older neighborhoods often have aging sewer infrastructure. Tree roots seeking moisture can infiltrate sewer lines through small cracks, causing blockages and backups. Regular drain cleaning and periodic video camera inspections can help prevent these costly emergencies. Texas Premier Plumbing offers professional drain cleaning and hydro jetting services to keep your lines clear.

3. Water Heater Failures

Houston’s hard water takes a toll on water heaters, causing sediment buildup that reduces efficiency and shortens the unit’s lifespan. We recommend flushing your water heater annually and replacing units older than 10 years. Whether you need a repair or a full water heater replacement, our team provides same-day service throughout the Houston area.

4. Running Toilets and Leaky Faucets

A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, significantly increasing your utility bills. Leaky faucets are equally wasteful and often indicate worn internal components. These may seem like minor issues, but they add up quickly. Our plumbers can diagnose and repair these common problems efficiently, saving you money on your monthly water bill.

5. Low Water Pressure

If you notice reduced water pressure throughout your Houston home, it could signal corroded pipes, a failing pressure regulator, or even a hidden leak. Homes built before the 1980s may have galvanized steel pipes that corrode over time, restricting water flow. Our team can assess your plumbing system and recommend the best solution, whether it is a simple repair or a full re-piping project.

When to Call a Professional Houston Plumber

While some minor plumbing issues can be handled with basic tools, many problems require the expertise of a licensed plumber. If you are experiencing any of these common plumbing problems, do not wait until a small issue becomes a major emergency. Contact Texas Premier Plumbing at 713-955-1919 for fast, reliable plumbing service in Houston, Austin, and Livingston, TX. We are available 24/7 for emergency plumbing situations.