Avoid Problems With Your Water Heater by Following These Steps
With summer just around the corner, you’re probably thinking about all the fun you’ll have in the sun. But summer is also a perfect time to think about checking up on the health of your home and all the appliances and equipment that help it to run smoothly. One particular appliance that you should look at is your water heater. From comfortable showers to efficient dishwashers, your water heater is responsible for many of the conveniences in your life. As such, it’s important to give it a little bit of attention each year to ensure it works properly and you don’t run into any complications.
Keep reading to learn the steps you should take this summer to keep your water heater in good shape, get answers to frequently asked questions, and know whom to call if you ever have a problem!
1. Perform a Sediment Flush
The best thing you can do to maintain your water heater is flush the built-up sediment from it yearly. Whenever your water heater fills itself, it brings in new water, which will inevitably have a small amount of sediment in it. Though there is a component called an anode rod that will help attract the sediment, there will inevitably be sediment on the bottom of your tank, so regular flushing is crucial.
2. See If the Anode Rod Needs to Be Replaced
Inside your water heater is a part called an anode rod, and as mentioned previously, it attracts sediments and minerals that are in the water that enters your heater. Typically, it’s best to replace your anode rod every three to five years, though that estimate can change depending on where you live and the quality of your water. Keep an eye out for signs that the anode rod needs to be replaced, including rust flakes in the water heater, a significant coat of calcium on the rod, the rod being thin and less than an inch long, and the rod having six inches or more of its core wire exposed.
3. Test the Pressure Release Valve
Your water heater uses pressure to draw water in and push it out through the system into your home. Therefore, it needs a pressure release valve, a safety device that prevents your water heater from building up an excessive amount of pressure, which could result in a dangerous explosion. To be fair, this is a very uncommon occurrence, but taking the time to test the pressure release valve once a year is a small way to keep you and your family safe.
4. Check for Signs of Wear and Tear
One of the simplest and quickest tips that we can offer for water heater maintenance, as well as general maintenance, is to give things a thorough look. With just your eyes, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to locate potential problems with your water heater in a matter of minutes. Namely, check for signs of rust or leaks, which will tell you that something is wrong. While you might not be able to pinpoint the exact problem this way, it will let you know that you need to contact a professional.
5. Examine and Adjust the Thermostat
Much like your HVAC system, your water heater has a thermostat that you can use to adjust the temperature of the water. If there’s a problem, you’ll likely be able to tell quickly by your too-hot or too-cold shower or sink. The fix may be as easy as readjusting the temperature, but if it seems like the thermostat is faulty, you should get in touch with an expert.
FAQs
How often is water heater maintenance necessary?
Water heater maintenance should be conducted at least once a year. However, many professionals and manufacturers recommend that you should flush the sediment out of your water heater twice a year, if not more depending on the exact system.
Do I need a professional to do my water heater maintenance?
Most of the items on this list don’t require a professional. That said, if you encounter any problems or find signs of damage in your system while going through the checklist, you should contact an expert to ensure the issue is dealt with properly.
What temperature should my water heater be set at?
Experts agree that water heaters for homes should be set at 120°F. While this temperature can be adjusted to suit individual preferences and needs, anything under that runs the risk of bacteria forming, and anything over 140°F can be dangerous. If you find your water heater to be wildly outside of this range, consider calling a professional.
Contact Joe the Plumber When You Run into Issues
Whenever you need an expert plumber on your side, call us here at Joe the Plumber! We pride ourselves on fast, affordable, and high-quality service that will meet all your needs. From replacements and repairs to maintenance and installations, you can count on us for any work your water heater might need. Contact us today to schedule your service!
