How to Maintain Your Gas Water Heater?

A hot water heater is a basic necessity and you cannot afford this necessity to fail or become inefficient even for a day. There are several easy and inexpensive ways to increase your water heater's efficiency and life. All you need to do is follow these 7 maintenance tips to keep your gas water heater running perfectly for a longer period.

• Check the Temperature-Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve

Turn off the gas to extinguish the pilot light and cut-off the cold water supply. Lift the valve lever to release some air (vapor) and water from the TPR valve. If you don’t see anything escaping from the valve, replace the TPR valve. Check this valve annually.

• Check the Insulation

Check the insulation of the hot and cold water pipes, and the water heater tank. If the insulation is missing or not in good condition, install new ones. Wrap an insulating blanket around the tank. Do not cover the top and bottom part of the gas water heater. Insulate the pipes using the self-sticking 3/8-inch-thick foam insulation that matches the pipes' diameter.

• Check the Anode Rod

Drain the water heater tank, loosen the hex head screw, and unscrew the anode rod. Replace the sacrificial anode rod if you notice calcium deposits on it or if it is less than ½ inch thick. Inspect the anode every 2-3 years.

• Drain and Flush the Tank

Drain the remaining water in the water heater tank by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve. Turn on the cold water supply to the gas water heater and let the cold water flush the tank. Continue flushing the tank till clear water runs out of the hose. Repeat this every 7-8 months to keep the sediment buildup at bay.

• Relight the Gas Water Heater

Check if there is a flame inside the heat access panel. If not, shut off the gas supply valve. Remove the excess gas by blowing gently. Now, turn the gas valve to "On" position and control knob to "Pilot" position. Hold a burner lighter or match stick near the access opening. You will see a small flame.

• Adjust the Thermostat

Unscrew the cover of the temperature dial at the side of the tank. Using a flathead screwdriver, adjust the temperature dial to 120°F. Close the panel and check the water temperature after one hour. Adjust again if necessary.

• Check Leaks

Check for drips and leaks from all the connections of the water heater. Check the connection of the drain valve, TPR valve, and water pipes.

These maintenance tips are quite easy to perform, but if you are not comfortable doing them, call our Edmonton professional plumbers. Our experts at Hot Water Tanks Edmonton know how to increase the efficiency and life of any hot water heater, and they’re just a call away.