When you turn on your shower or wash your dishes, it’s easy to take that comforting stream of hot water for granted.

But hot water isn’t just a luxury. It’s a vital part of daily life that keeps us clean, healthy and comfortable.

As we head into the colder months and the season of gratitude, it’s the perfect time to give thanks for this modern convenience.

From Buckets to Boilers

Before the invention of the water heater, people heated water manually over open fires or on stoves and carried it in buckets to where it was needed. This was not only time-consuming but also unsafe and impractical.

But by the early 1900s, some Americans began enjoying the first water heaters in their homes. Invented in 1889 by Edwin Rudd, the first automatic water heater used gas to heat water stored in a tank, laying the groundwork for the water heaters we use today. By the 1940s, the use of water heaters became more widespread as indoor plumbing and electricity became standard in most homes.

Over the years, technology has evolved dramatically. As indoor plumbing and electricity became standard, gas and electric tank-style heaters brought reliable hot water to homes across America. Today, modern systems include tankless water heaters, high-efficiency models and hybrid heat pump units.

An Unsung Hero

Imagine life in modern America without hot water. We use it daily to bathe, cook and do laundry. Hot water kills germs, cuts through grease and helps maintain hygiene. Without it, everyday tasks would be slower, less efficient and far less pleasant.

While it might not be the flashiest appliance in your home, your water heater works quietly behind the scenes, delivering comfort on demand with little appreciation. The best way to thank your water heater is by scheduling an annual maintenance appointment.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Routine maintenance not only helps your water heater run more efficiently, but it also helps prevent costly breakdowns on the coldest days of the year. After all, no one wants to take a cold shower when it’s freezing outside.

So, as you gather with family this Thanksgiving, take a moment to appreciate the everyday luxuries that make your house a home. And if your water heater is showing signs of age or isn’t producing enough hot water, it may be time to talk to the experts at C & C Heating & Air Conditioning.

Call us at (586) 439-3319 or contact us online to schedule a maintenance appointment for your home’s water heater. Your water heater and your cold bones will thank us!

company icon