Water Heater Myths Busted: What You’ve Heard vs. What’s True

When it comes to home plumbing, few systems are as relied upon—and misunderstood—as the water heater. From energy-saving tips to system types, plenty of myths circulate among homeowners that can lead to inefficient use, surprise breakdowns, or unnecessary repairs. Today, we’re setting the record straight by busting some of the most common water heater myths so you can keep your home running efficiently with help from an exceptional Greenwood plumber.

 
Myth #1: Turning Off Your Water Heater Saves Money

One of the most widespread misconceptions is that turning off your water heater when you're not home—like during vacation—will slash your energy bill. In reality, shutting off the unit completely can cause more harm than good. When turned off for long periods, the system may struggle to reheat efficiently, and in some cases, bacteria can grow in the tank due to stagnant water.

The truth: If you’re leaving for a few days, switch your unit to “vacation mode” or lower the temperature setting rather than powering it down. This prevents unnecessary reheating while keeping the system healthy.

 
Myth #2: Tankless Water Heaters Never Run Out of Hot Water

It’s easy to see why tankless water heaters are appealing—compact, efficient, and able to deliver hot water on demand. But contrary to popular belief, they aren’t magical machines with unlimited capacity.

The truth: While tankless systems don’t store hot water, they can be overwhelmed by multiple simultaneous uses. If someone is showering while another appliance is running hot water, the system may not keep up.

The fix? Make sure your tankless system is properly sized for your household’s needs, or consider installing multiple units in high-demand homes.

 
Myth #3: You Don’t Need Maintenance Unless There’s a Problem

Out of sight, out of mind—until you’re stuck with a freezing shower. Many homeowners assume that water heaters don’t need regular attention, but neglecting basic upkeep can shorten the unit’s lifespan and reduce efficiency.

The truth: Routine maintenance, like flushing the tank or checking the anode rod, can prevent sediment buildup, corrosion, and early failure. Having a professional perform periodic water heater repair or inspections can save you from costly surprises later on.

 
Myth #4: The Bigger the Tank, the Better

It’s easy to think a larger tank means more hot water, but oversizing your system can lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills.

The truth: The right tank size depends on your household size and hot water habits. An exceptional Greenwood plumber can help assess your needs and recommend a properly sized, energy-efficient model.

 
Don’t Let Water Heater Myths Drain Your Wallet

Staying informed about your water heater can make a big difference in both comfort and cost. If you have questions, need an upgrade, or suspect you’re due for water heater repair, don’t hesitate to reach out. For honest answers, expert advice, and reliable service in Greenwood, contact Mathis Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.—your go-to pros for water heaters and beyond.