Water heater maintenance can be done easily, by anyone and everyone. A regular inspection and maintenance can help your water heater to survive for many years. Here are some ways how you can extend the life of your water heater.
Change the Anode
Check the anode rod made of magnesium or aluminum every 9-10 months. This rod is responsible for preventing the water tank from corroding. Replace this anode rod when you start seeing the internal core steel wire. If you have hard water supply in your area, check the rod more often.
Drain and Flush the Tank
Over time, debris, minerals, and other sediments develop on the bottom and walls of the tank. Every three months, drain the hot water tank. Flush the tank with gallons of water to remove the buildups. These sediment buildups can lead to internal corrosion and overheating of the tank.
Install Water Softener
If you obtain hard water that has a high concentration of minerals, install a water softener. This device will protect your water heater and other plumbing systems and fixtures from getting corroded. This will reduce the chances of sediment buildups too.
Check the TPR Valve
The temperature-pressure relief valve releases excess temperature and pressure inside the tank by releasing water from it. Excess pressure can result in pipe and tank ruptures or leaks. Check this valve every couple of years to ensure that it is working efficiently. Turn the key several times to see if it is moving smoothly. If not, fix it. Consider replacing it if the valve is too old.
Install Expansion Tank
An expansion tank holds expanded hot water that the water tank cannot hold. This way, expansion tank prevents the water heater from rupturing due to thermal expansion of water. Install it to lower down the chances of water heater damages.
Insulate the Tank
Insulate the water heater tank by wrapping tank blanket on the outer surface. This keeps the water hot for a longer time and reduces heating bills. This way, it reduces the frequent use of the tank, thus decreasing the damage.
Check the Venting System
For gas water heaters, check the venting system every three months. Check and make sure there is no damage or obstruction in the system, vent pipe, and air supply. Do the inspection every three months. Replace the damaged or corroded part of the system to facilitate easy flow of air and heat.
Carry Out an Annual Inspection
Call a professional plumber for a thorough annual water heater inspection. This will help them to identify the hidden defects that can lead to bigger, severe tank problems. Fix the minor defects before they get worse and affect the lifespan of your water heater.
By following these maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your water heater. But, even the best maintenance cannot prevent a water heater from failing. Every hot water tank will need repairs and replacement sooner or later. You can get in touch with our professional water heater installers whenever you face an issue related to your water heater.
Change the Anode
Check the anode rod made of magnesium or aluminum every 9-10 months. This rod is responsible for preventing the water tank from corroding. Replace this anode rod when you start seeing the internal core steel wire. If you have hard water supply in your area, check the rod more often.
Drain and Flush the Tank
Over time, debris, minerals, and other sediments develop on the bottom and walls of the tank. Every three months, drain the hot water tank. Flush the tank with gallons of water to remove the buildups. These sediment buildups can lead to internal corrosion and overheating of the tank.
Install Water Softener
If you obtain hard water that has a high concentration of minerals, install a water softener. This device will protect your water heater and other plumbing systems and fixtures from getting corroded. This will reduce the chances of sediment buildups too.
Check the TPR Valve
The temperature-pressure relief valve releases excess temperature and pressure inside the tank by releasing water from it. Excess pressure can result in pipe and tank ruptures or leaks. Check this valve every couple of years to ensure that it is working efficiently. Turn the key several times to see if it is moving smoothly. If not, fix it. Consider replacing it if the valve is too old.
Install Expansion Tank
An expansion tank holds expanded hot water that the water tank cannot hold. This way, expansion tank prevents the water heater from rupturing due to thermal expansion of water. Install it to lower down the chances of water heater damages.
Insulate the Tank
Insulate the water heater tank by wrapping tank blanket on the outer surface. This keeps the water hot for a longer time and reduces heating bills. This way, it reduces the frequent use of the tank, thus decreasing the damage.
Check the Venting System
For gas water heaters, check the venting system every three months. Check and make sure there is no damage or obstruction in the system, vent pipe, and air supply. Do the inspection every three months. Replace the damaged or corroded part of the system to facilitate easy flow of air and heat.
Carry Out an Annual Inspection
Call a professional plumber for a thorough annual water heater inspection. This will help them to identify the hidden defects that can lead to bigger, severe tank problems. Fix the minor defects before they get worse and affect the lifespan of your water heater.
By following these maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your water heater. But, even the best maintenance cannot prevent a water heater from failing. Every hot water tank will need repairs and replacement sooner or later. You can get in touch with our professional water heater installers whenever you face an issue related to your water heater.
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