The main cause of water heater failure is sediment buildup in the tank. Often there is sizzling and popping when the element heats up -- as it works harder to heat the water. This not only wastes energy but often causes early replacement, as well. You can save money and extend the life of your unit by occasionally draining the tank and flushing away sediment. Here's how: for electric heaters, turn off the power, for gas turn the control to ?pilot.? Next, turn off the cold-water inlet valve and attach a garden hose to the outlet valve at the bottom. You'll be running hot water, so be careful. Then, open a nearby faucet to improve flow. Once the water drains out, reopen the cold-water valve to flush the tank, then reverse the process, turning faucets off last. Check your thermostat (it should be no more than 120°F). If you take these precautions, a water heater that might have lasted only 10 years could last 15 or more. And that's the On The House tip for today.