Your water heater is one of the most useful and hardworking household appliances in your home. When temperatures plummet, a functional water heater is a real godsend. It ensures an uninterrupted supply of hot water.
Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of water heater tanks. Sediments can cause leaks, odd noises, and negatively impact water heater efficiency. Unaddressed sediment build-up is a recipe for disaster and can cause serious damage to your system.
Like every other household appliance, your water heater needs periodic maintenance. Regular maintenance prevents problems. Well-maintained water heaters are reliable, need less energy to operate, and are safer to use.
Here are some water heater maintenance tips from Holman Plumbing.
Lower and Maintain the Temperature to 120 Degrees
Many water heaters are set at a higher temperature (as high as 140 degrees) than prescribed by the manufacturer. This is a recipe for disaster. At higher temperatures, even more minerals settle and form deposits. Extremely hot water may also cause a first- or second-degree burn.
To steer clear of performance issues and safety risks, set the thermostat to 120 degrees. Water heated at 120 degrees can help accomplish all household tasks. Before going on a vacation, remember to change the thermostat setting to ‘vacation’.
Flush Your Water Heater Once a Year
Though sediment may not damage your water heater, it can affect your system’s efficiency. Periodically drain your water heater’s tank and remove sediments. Start by shutting down your water heater. Allow the water to cool. Then attach a hose to your water heater and drain the remaining water out of your tank.
Thoroughly clean the tank. After you get rid of accumulated dirt and debris, refill your water heater and turn it back on.
Periodically Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
This valve is designed to release excess pressure. To test your TPR valve, place a bucket under the discharge pipe. Next, lift the lever. If water comes out and stops when you lower the lever, your TPR valve is working the way it was intended to.
Regularly Check the Anode Rod
Your water heater’s sacrificial anode rod attracts corrosive minerals and removes them from the system. If your anode rod is too corroded, it can’t do its job. Anode rods usually last five years. To prevent serious damage, replace your anode rod in a timely manner.
Holman Plumbing is one of the most trusted plumbing contractors in Santa Rosa. We offer top-notch water heater services in Santa Rosa. Whether your water heater is not heating properly or not heating at all, our team will get to the root cause of the problem and come up with a solution. To schedule a water heater inspection, call (707) 495-5002.