Looking after your water heater is essential for the well-being of your home. It ensures that you have hot water daily to shower, scrub dishes, and do laundry without fail. However, if neglected it can lead to a significant repair or even replacement expenses. In this blog post, we will provide some expert tips on how to maintain your trusty water heater so as not to incur those extra costs.
Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
To ensure the safety of your water heater, it is essential that you inspect the temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve at least yearly. This valve safeguards against explosions caused by incredibly high temperatures or pressures; thus, regular maintenance is key! Regularly checking this feature will give you peace of mind knowing that your unit remains safe from possible harm.
To assess the performance of your TPR valve, cut off both power and water flow to the heater. Place a bucket beneath it before lifting up its lever to release hot water into the container. If no water is released or if leakage takes place after you lift up its lever, then that’s an indication for a replacement!
Inspect the Anode Rod
Your water heater requires an anode rod to defend against corrosion. As time passes, the anode rod deteriorates and should be replaced in order to prevent your water heater from rusting. Without it, your water heater will undoubtedly fall victim to oxidation damage which could lead to costly repairs or replacement of the entire unit.
To examine the anode rod, start by shutting off the power and cold-water supply to your water heater. Subsequently, look for it on top of the unit and take out it. If its size is under ½ inch or if you notice calcium deposits on it, then replace it right away!
Flush the Water Heater
Over time, sediment and minerals can accumulate in your water heater’s tank, reducing its efficiency and causing it to fail prematurely. To prevent this, you should flush the water heater at least once a year.
To flush the water heater:
- Turn off the power supply and the cold-water supply to the water heater.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and open the valve to drain the tank.
- After the tank is drained, close the drain valve and refill the tank.
Inspect the Gas Burner or Heating Element
Maintaining the efficiency of both gas and electric water heaters is crucial. Gas burners or heating elements can be easily clogged by sediment and mineral deposits over time, leading to a decrease in performance that can even lead to breakdowns before their expected lifespan.
To inspect the gas burner or heating element:
- Turn off the power supply and the cold-water supply to the water heater.
- If you have a gas water heater, remove the burner and inspect it for any signs of corrosion or damage.
- If you have an electric water heater, remove the heating element and inspect it for any signs of corrosion or damage.
Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
While there are many steps you can take to maintain your water heater, it’s always a good idea to schedule professional maintenance. A professional plumber can inspect your water heater for any signs of wear and tear and perform any necessary repairs. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your water heater.
Conclusion
Maintaining your water heater is crucial to prevent costly repairs and extend its lifespan. By following these tips, you can keep your water heater in excellent condition and ensure that you have hot water when you need it. If these maintenance jobs seem too daunting for you, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber and get assistance from the pros. Call (281) 857-5704 now and help is already en route!