5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips

5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips

Get Your Water Heater in Shape for Winter

Maintenance is a part of caring for any major appliance in your home. Your water heater is no exception. We’ve compiled this list of five important maintenance tips to perform on your water heater this fall season before the cold weather hits.

Flush the Tank

The tank of your hot water heater needs flushing annually to remove sediment, rust and any other buildup in the system. If sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank, the water heater needs to work twice as hard to heat the water. This can significantly reduce the life of the water heater, causing you to replace it faster.

Insulate the Tank and Pipes

Improve your water heater efficiency this winter season by insulating the pipes and the tank. Most hardware stores sell foam insulation that slips right onto the pipes, as well as a jacket for your tank. Installation is simple and will keep the heat inside where it belongs.

Turn Down the Temperature

To prolong the life of your tank, turn down the temperature. Most tanks default to somewhere around 140 degrees. This is hot enough to scald skin and can be dangerous in households with children. Keep your family safe and decrease the demand on your water heater by limiting the temperature to no more than 120 degrees.

Test the TPR Valve

The temperature and pressure release valve (TPR) is an important safety feature on your tank. Make sure it is working to avoid a dangerous pressure buildup in your tank. Pull the release handle. If you don’t hear any water, it’s time to call in a professional to clean or replace the valve.

Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod’s job is to remove elements from your water which might cause your tank to rust on the inside. The rod needs inspections on a regular basis and replacement every five years to avoid a major problem.

By performing these five maintenance tips each fall, you can prolong the life of your water heater. Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Air is standing by to help with any fall maintenance you might need. Call for a professional check up for peace of mind and to save money on expensive repair bills down the road.