Water Heater Maintenance: How to Keep Your Heater in Top Condition
Water heaters are an essential part of our daily lives, providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, and other household needs. However, many homeowners neglect to maintain their water heaters, which can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and even water damage. Our recommendation is to give Plumbing Experts a call at 317.289.7560, email us ken@plumbingexpertsindy.com or schedule an appointment by clicking here for us to come out and inspect your water heater. If that’s not an option, we hope this guide can aid you in maintaining your water heater yourself. In this guide, we'll show you how to keep your water heater in top condition with regular maintenance.
Why Water Heater Maintenance is Important:
Neglecting water heater maintenance can have serious consequences, such as reduced efficiency, increased energy bills, and even water damage. In fact, neglecting maintenance can reduce a water heater's efficiency by up to 50%. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your water heater, improve its efficiency, and reduce the risk of breakdowns and malfunctions.
Steps for Water Heater Maintenance:
Checking the Pressure Relief Valve:
The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature that prevents the water heater from building up too much pressure. To check the pressure relief valve, turn off the power or gas to the water heater, locate the valve, and lift the lever to allow water to flow out. If water does not flow out or the valve is leaking or corroded, it may need to be replaced. Check the pressure relief valve once a year.
Flushing the Tank:
Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the water heater tank, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. To flush the tank, turn off the power or gas to the water heater, attach a hose to the drain valve, and let the tank drain completely. Flushing the tank once a year can help improve the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater.
Inspecting the Anode Rod:
The anode rod is a sacrificial metal rod that protects the tank from corrosion. Over time, the anode rod can become depleted and need to be replaced. To inspect the anode rod, turn off the power or gas to the water heater, locate the anode rod, and check its condition. If the anode rod is less than ½ inch thick or heavily corroded, it should be replaced. Inspect the anode rod once a year.
Testing the T&P Valve:
The T&P (temperature and pressure) valve is another important safety feature that prevents the water heater from overheating and exploding. To test the T&P valve, lift the lever to allow water to flow out and check for proper operation. If the T&P valve is leaking or not functioning properly, it may need to be replaced. Test the T&P valve once a year.
Cleaning the Burner and Pilot:
Buildup on the burner and pilot can reduce the efficiency of the water heater and increase the risk of malfunctions. To clean the burner and pilot, turn off the gas, remove the burner assembly, and clean the components with a wire brush. If the burner or pilot is not lighting properly, cleaning may be necessary. Clean the burner and pilot once a year or as needed.
By following these simple maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your water heater, improve its efficiency, and reduce the risk of breakdowns and malfunctions. Neglecting water heater maintenance can lead to costly repairs, increased energy bills, and even water damage. Take the time to maintain your water heater and enjoy reliable hot water for years to come.
