How to Maintain Your Hot Water Heater for Optimal Use
It is important to know how to properly maintain/use your hot water heater in order to prevent costly repairs or replacements down the road.
There are 14 simple steps you can take on a regular basis to keep your hot water heater running smoothly and efficiently.
1) Check the anode rod:
The anode rod is responsible for protecting the interior of your hot water heater from corrosion. Over time, the anode rod will slowly deteriorate and will need to be replaced. You should check your anode rod every 6 months or so and replace it if necessary.
2) Flush the tank:
Sediment can build up in the bottom of your hot water heater over time, causing the unit to work less efficiently and eventually leading to corrosion. To prevent this, you should flush the tank every year or so to remove any sediment that has accumulated.
3) Check the temperature and pressure relief valve:
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents your hot water heater from exploding if the pressure gets too high. You should check this valve every 6 months to make sure it is working properly.
4) Check the gas connections:
If you have a gas-powered hot water heater, it is important to check the gas connections periodically to make sure there are no leaks.
5) Check for leaks:
Periodically checking your hot water heater for leaks is an important part of maintenance. If you notice any water around the base of the unit, it is important to have a professional check it out as soon as possible.
6) Insulate the pipes:
If your heater is located in an area where the temperature gets below freezing, it is important to insulate the pipes to prevent them from bursting. You can buy special insulation kits at most hardware stores.
7) Drain the tank:
Draining the tank on a regular basis helps to remove sediment that has accumulated over time and also prolongs the life of your hot water heater. You should drain the tank at least once a year.
8) Refill the tank:
After draining the tank, you will need to refill it with fresh water. Be sure to use only clean, fresh water to refill your hot water heater.
9) Check the pilot light:
If you have a gas-powered hot water heater, it is important to check the pilot light on a regular basis to make sure it is still lit. If the pilot light goes out, you will need to relight it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual.
10) Check the thermostat:
The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in your heater. You should check it periodically to make sure it is set at the desired temperature.
11) Check for rust:
If you notice any rust on your heater, it is important to have a professional check it out as soon as possible. Rust can lead to leaks and other problems.
12) Check the drain valve:
The drain valve is responsible for draining the water out of your hot water heater. You should check it periodically to make sure it is working properly.
13) Check the pressure relief valve:
The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents your hot water heaters from exploding if the pressure gets too high. You should check this valve every 6 months to make sure it is working properly.
14) Have a professional inspect your hot water heater:
It is a good idea to have a professional inspects your hot water heater on a yearly basis. They will be able to spot any potential problems and make recommendations for repairs or replacements if necessary.
Conclusion:
Performing regular maintenance on your hot water heater is an important part of owning one. By taking the time to do things like flush the tank, check the pilot light and check for rust, you can help to prolong the life of your hot water heater and keeps it running smoothly. If you have any concerns about your hot water heater, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.