Water Heater Winter Wellness: Keep the Hot Water Flowing with All Hot Water LLC

Jacob Plyler
Oct 20
3 min read

Winter in Upstate South Carolina can bring chilly mornings, icy pipes, and unexpected plumbing problems — but your water heater doesn’t have to be one of them. At All Hot Water LLC, based right here in Seneca, SC, we specialize in keeping your hot water flowing, no matter how cold it gets outside.

Here are simple, effective ways to prepare your water heater for the winter months — and how to know when it’s time to call in the pros.

Wrap It Up: Insulate Your Tank & Pipes

Your water heater works overtime in cold weather. Help it out by wrapping the tank with an insulation blanket and insulating any exposed hot water pipes — especially in unheated spaces like garages, crawlspaces, or basements. You’ll reduce heat loss, improve energy efficiency, and lower your utility bills.

Turn Down the Temp — Safely

If your water heater is set above 130–140°F, it's probably higher than it needs to be. Lowering it to 120°F can reduce energy use, prevent scalding, and lessen wear on your system — all without sacrificing comfort.

Check the Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) is a critical safety feature. To test it, gently lift the valve’s lever — you should hear water release. If it doesn't drain or continues leaking afterward, call a professional right away. A faulty valve can lead to serious damage.

Flush Out Sediment

Over time, minerals build up inside your tank, especially if your home has hard water (a common issue in Upstate SC). This sediment reduces efficiency and shortens your heater’s lifespan. We recommend flushing your tank at least once a year. If you're unsure how, let our licensed techs handle it safely for you.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can wreak havoc on your plumbing system — and they’re more likely to occur when temperatures dip below freezing overnight. To prevent this:

Keep your water heater in a warm, insulated area
Use pipe insulation in vulnerable spots
Let a small trickle of warm water run on extremely cold nights

Is Your Water Heater Trying to Tell You Something?

Don’t ignore the signs that your system might be struggling. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call All Hot Water LLC:

Water takes too long to heat up
Hot water runs out too fast
Unusual popping or banging sounds
Discolored or rusty water
Visible leaks or puddles near the tank

Catching issues early can prevent costly breakdowns later — and help extend the life of your unit.

Quick Winter Water Heater Checklist

Want to keep it simple? Here's a fast reference guide to stay ahead of cold-weather problems:

✅ Insulate tank and pipes

✅ Lower temperature to 120°F

✅ Test pressure relief valve

✅ Flush sediment buildup

✅ Check for leaks or strange noises

✅ Ensure unit is in a warm space

✅ Schedule a professional inspection

Thinking of Upgrading? Ask About Tankless Options

If your current water heater is 10+ years old or constantly needs repairs, winter might be the perfect time to consider a tankless water heater. They’re energy-efficient, space-saving, and provide hot water on demand — no more cold surprises.

We offer expert installation and can help you decide if going tankless is right for your home.

Serving Seneca & the Upstate SC Region

At All Hot Water LLC, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Seneca, Clemson, Anderson, Easley, Greenville, and surrounding communities. Whether you need a seasonal checkup, emergency repair, or full system replacement, our team is ready to keep your hot water flowing — reliably and affordably.