Essential Water Heater Tips for Idaho Landlords and Property Managers

Why Water Heaters Matter More Than You Think

If you manage rental properties in Idaho, you know one thing for sure—tenants hate cold showers. A failing water heater isn’t just inconvenient—it can damage your reputation, increase turnover, and even lead to legal issues if not handled promptly. That’s why staying ahead of water heater maintenance and replacements is essential for landlords and property managers alike.

1.  Know the Age of Every Unit

Water heaters generally last:

• 8–12 years for traditional tank systems

• 15–20+ years for tankless systems

Keep a log of each property’s unit age and brand. If you didn’t install it, check the serial number to determine the manufacture date. Replacing before failure reduces surprise emergencies and unhappy tenants.

2.  Schedule for Annual Maintenance

Proactive maintenance is your best friend. Once a year, be sure to:

• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup (especially important in hard-water areas of Idaho)

• Test the pressure relief valve

• Check for signs of rust, leaks, or corrosion

Consider setting up a regular maintenance agreement with a local plumber (like us!) to make it hands-off.

3.  Respond Quickly to Complaints

If a tenant reports no hot water or unusual sounds, act fast. Quick responses:

• Prevent further damage

• Show professionalism and care

• Help avoid rent withholding or negative reviews

It’s also your responsibility under Idaho’s landlord-tenant laws to maintain basic utilities like hot water in livable condition.

4.  Include Water Heater Language in Lease Agreements

Protect yourself and set clear expectations by adding:

• Instructions for reporting issues (with emergency vs. non-emergency guidelines)

• Tenant responsibilities (e.g., notifying you about leaks immediately)

• Limitations on tampering or DIY repairs

This keeps communication clear and protects your investment.

5.  Consider Upgrades for Long-Term Savings

Older properties may benefit from switching to:

• Tankless water heaters, which offer endless hot water and energy savings

• High-efficiency tank models, especially if tenants pay utilities

You may also be eligible for Idaho utility rebates or federal tax incentives for energy-efficient upgrades.

6.  Plan for Replacements, Not Just Repairs

Don’t wait until a unit fails catastrophically. Set a replacement budget cycle for properties, especially multi-family units, and consider staggered updates to avoid all systems aging out at once.

Need a Water Heater Pro You Can Count On?

Whether you manage one unit or 100, JustWaterHeatersID.com is your trusted partner for:

• Fast repairs

• Annual service

• Professional installations

• Emergency replacements

Let’s keep your properties (and your tenants) running smoothly.

Schedule a service today or ask us about bulk pricing for property managers!