Your water heater holds a significant amount of water, heated and ready for you to draw from whenever you need to. Most people do not think much about it. However, this system can fail due to wear and tear. If this happens, it can cause significant damage to your home. Your home insurance may cover some losses, in some cases. But, maintaining your water heater is still up to you. These tips and steps are easy to follow.
#1: Remove the Sediment
It is common for water heaters to develop a grainy, sometimes gravel-like material at the bottom. This is sediment. It is important to remove it. Doing so helps to improve the longevity of your water heater. It also can help to reduce the energy costs associated with using your water heater.
To do so, shut off the water supply valve to the hot water heater. Place a bucket or container at the base of it, where a pipe runs. This is the temperature-pressure release valve. Lift up this valve’s tab. This will allow some water to escape into the bucket.
Drain the water into the bucket. Then, stir up the sediment from the bottom of the tank and use the water supply valve to allow it to wash out.
#2: Maintain the Temperature Properly
How hot is your hot water tank? If you set this temperature too high, you are going to see a drop in the efficiency of your tank. You also will notice your system might not run as well. This can also reduce the lifespan of your hot water heater. Most often, you should keep the temperature at 100 to 120 degrees. For every ten degrees that you drop it, you could see up to five percent in energy savings.
#3: Minimize Frozen Pipes
If your water heater is close to the outdoors of your home – which most are for venting purposes, be sure these pipes do not freeze in the winter months. Insulation on your water heater reduces this risk. If it does freeze, this can cause the pipe to expand and burst, spewing water throughout your home. Though burst pipes may be something your insurance covers, you do not want to worry about cleanup.
It is also helpful to have a plumber out to your home every year or so. He or she can inspect the system, be sure it is working properly, and handle the draining and cleaning of the tank.
Get A Quote