Heater details
| Item | Your heater |
|---|---|
| Install date | |
| Tank or tankless | |
| Fuel: natural gas or electric | |
| Brand and model number | |
| Serial number | |
| Capacity or rated flow | |
| Location in the house | |
| Installer and their CSLB license number | |
| Permit number, if one was pulled |
Service history
| Date | What was done | By whom | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flushed or descaled | |||
| Anode rod checked | |||
| Relief valve tested | |||
| Seismic straps checked | |||
| Repair |
Why record this
Hard water is the main enemy of water heaters in North Orange County. A record of flushing and descaling shows whether maintenance is keeping up with scale, and the install date tells you and a plumber how much life the heater likely has left. The serial number often encodes the manufacture date, which helps if the install date is unknown.
When it comes time to replace the heater, the card also helps the plumber plan: fuel type, location and venting all affect what can go in its place.
Quick safety check each time you update the card
- Seismic straps are snug around the tank
- Relief valve drain line is in place and not capped
- No water pooling at the base
- The area around a gas heater is clear of stored items
- No scorch marks near the burner or vent
- Carbon monoxide alarms nearby are working
Label terms
- BTU input
- How much gas a gas heater uses at full fire.
- First-hour rating
- How much hot water a tank can deliver in an hour of use.
- T&P valve
- The temperature and pressure relief valve that protects the tank.
- Anode rod
- A sacrificial metal rod that corrodes so the tank does not.
Common questions
Where is the install date if I do not have records?
Check the rating label and serial number; many manufacturers encode the manufacture date there. A plumber can help read it.
How often should I update the card?
Each time the heater is serviced, flushed or repaired.
Does a tankless unit need a card too?
Yes. Descaling history is especially useful for tankless units in hard-water areas.
General information for North Orange County, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.