Inspection Services

Water Heater Servicing

Your water heater works hard every day. A professional inspection and service keeps it running safely, efficiently, and for as long as possible.

Right Choice Home Inspections provides professional water heater inspection and servicing throughout Middle Georgia. We evaluate condition, safety, efficiency, and remaining service life — giving you the documented findings you need to protect your home and budget.

Professional water heater inspection being performed in a home

Average water heater lifespan

8–12 years

Most homeowners don't know the age of their water heater — or that it may already be past its expected service life

Why Water Heater Servicing Matters

Water heaters are one of the most overlooked systems in a home — until they fail. A professional inspection identifies safety hazards, efficiency losses, and early warning signs of failure before they become expensive emergencies.

  • Water heaters are the second-largest energy consumer in most homes, accounting for 14–18% of utility bills
  • The average water heater lasts 8–12 years — many homeowners don't know the age or condition of theirs
  • Sediment buildup reduces efficiency, increases energy costs, and accelerates tank corrosion
  • Faulty pressure relief valves and improper venting are serious safety hazards that often go undetected
  • A failing water heater can cause significant water damage — catching problems early prevents costly repairs
  • Buyers and sellers benefit from documented water heater condition during real estate transactions

What We Inspect

Our water heater inspection covers every major component — from the tank and safety valves to venting, plumbing connections, and electrical systems — for both tank-style and tankless units.

Tank Condition & Age

  • Tank exterior for corrosion, rust, and physical damage
  • Manufacturer date and estimated remaining service life
  • Signs of prior leaks or water damage at base
  • Anode rod condition assessment

Safety Components

  • Temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve function
  • TPR discharge pipe routing and termination
  • Seismic strapping where required
  • Clearances from combustibles and walls

Venting & Combustion

  • Flue and vent pipe condition and proper slope
  • Draft hood and backdrafting risk
  • Combustion air supply adequacy
  • Gas line connections and shutoff valve

Plumbing Connections

  • Cold supply and hot outlet connections
  • Dielectric unions to prevent galvanic corrosion
  • Expansion tank presence and condition
  • Shutoff valve accessibility and operation

Efficiency & Performance

  • Temperature setting and output verification
  • Sediment buildup indicators
  • Insulation and heat loss assessment
  • Tankless unit heat exchanger and scale observations

Electrical Components

  • Electric element and thermostat condition
  • Dedicated circuit and breaker sizing
  • Wiring connections and junction box cover
  • GFCI protection where required

Your Report Includes

  • Manufacturer date, model, and estimated remaining service life
  • Condition assessment of all major components with photographs
  • Safety deficiencies clearly identified and prioritized
  • Efficiency observations and energy-saving recommendations
  • Repair vs. replacement guidance based on age and condition
  • Delivered digitally — typically within 24 hours of the inspection

Who This Service Is For

  • Home buyers wanting to know the age and condition of the water heater before closing
  • Homeowners with a water heater over 8 years old or showing signs of wear
  • Anyone experiencing inconsistent hot water, unusual noises, or higher energy bills
  • Sellers wanting to document water heater condition for buyers
  • Landlords and property managers maintaining rental properties
  • Anyone who wants to extend the life of their water heater and avoid unexpected failures

Note

Water heater servicing is an inspection and assessment service. It does not include repairs, part replacement, or installation of new equipment. Scope and limitations are clearly stated in every report.

Don't Wait for a Cold Shower — or Worse

A professional water heater inspection gives you the documented findings you need to stay ahead of safety hazards, avoid unexpected failures, and make smart decisions about repair or replacement.

Veteran-owned. Detail-focused. Client-first. Built to protect your investment.