Having a reliable water heater is essential to everyday life. Taking steps to maintain and extend the life of your unit will go a long way in ensuring you have hot water when you need it. Here are 10 tips to help keep your water heater running smoothly:
- Check Temperature Settings: The recommended temperature for most residential water heaters is between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure yours isn’t set too high or too low by adjusting the thermostat accordingly.
- Insulate Pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes can reduce heat loss, keeping hot water hotter and reducing strain on your system.
- Flush Sediment: Every six months, turn off the power source and drain 1-2 gallons from the tank to flush out sediment or minerals that have built up.
- Use a Timer: If you’re away for long stretches of time, it’s recommended to use a timer on your water heater so it can be shut off when not in use.
- Check Pressure Relief Valve: It’s important to make sure that the pressure relief valve is working properly. This can be done by periodically lifting the lever and testing whether it releases a burst of hot water into an appropriate discharge pipe.
- Adjust Anode Rod: An anode rod helps protect steel components from corrosion, but overtime they will corrode and need replacing. When checking this part, look for any corrosion or deterioration, and replace when necessary.
- Use a Water Softener: Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your tank, so adding a water softening system is recommended to prevent this from happening.
- Monitor Troubleshooting Signs: Listen for strange noises coming from the unit as this could be a sign of an issue that needs to be addressed.
- Check Gas Connections: If you have a gas-powered water heater, it’s important to check all connections regularly for any signs of wear or damage that could create hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Professional maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of your water heater. This should be done at least once a year to ensure proper functioning and identify any issues early on before they become a bigger problem.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your water heater will last longer and remain in peak working condition for years to come! Contact By the Book Plumbing today at 866-441-8511 to learn more about our water heater services or to get a free quote.
