How To Keep Your Water Heater Working And Extend It’s Lifespan
A water heater is one of those appliances you use daily. This is why you should perform key maintenance tasks. By doing this, you will be making sure your water heater runs for many years to come, and save money on costly repairs. When the water heater breaks down, you will be inconvenienced because you have to find other options, which can take a lot of time. Here are some tips that are going to help keep the hot water working well.
Lowering the temperature setting on the water heater
The default setting of most water heaters is over 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature recommended by most professional lumbers is between 115 and 120 degrees. When you set the lower temperature for your water heater, you are reducing the chances of the water heater overheating, and you can also expect to see up to 5% savings on your energy bill.
Inspecting the temperature and pressure relief valve
This is the safety valve on the water heater. When the water heater is heating water even after it has reached the set temperature, then it can result in an explosion because there has been a lot of pressure building up inside. To prevent this, the water heater is going to expel excess pressure and temperature through a valve, and the water heater is going to run normally. The three steps of inspecting the valve are;
- Lifting the T & P lever partway then allowing it to snap back.
- You should expect to hear gurgling noise because the valve is sending water to the drain.
- If it doesn’t do anything, then you should make an effort of contacting a professional so the valve can be replaced.
Performing a mini-flush on the water heater
Sediment is going to build up in the water heater tank over time. The sediment can cause the tank to corrode and also reduce the efficiency of your water heater. How often you are going to flush dependence on the hardness and acidity of the water in the area. Below is a simple guide to use in flushing a water heater:
- Shut off the power if you have an electric water heater because safety always comes first.
- Put a bucket under the drain valve or connecting a hose running to a safe place outside
-Open the drain valve of the water heater carefully turning it in a counter-clockwise manner. The water is very hot, and it can easily result in a person getting burned if they are not careful. - After emptying one to two gallons, turn the valve clockwise to shut it down.
If the water heater needs repair and hasn’t been maintained regularly, then you can expect to deal with a corroded valve, and it is not going to properly operate. If you don’t feel confident doing this, then you should call a professional plumber to do it for you.
Call Our 24/7 Plumbing Service
While you can do a lot to prevent the water heater from breaking down, you will still need a professional to do a water heater inspection at least once a year. Call us to schedule this yearly maintenance.
