Water heaters are crucial to the comfort of your household. However, replacing them can be costly. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make your water heater last longer. Taking care of it properly not only saves you money on repairs but also helps avoid the hassle of unexpected breakdowns. The following details ways you can help make sure that your water heater lasts for many years.
Drain and Flush the Tank Regularly
Over time, sediment and minerals from the water can build up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup makes your water heater have to work harder, reducing its efficiency and putting extra strain on the system. To prevent this, you should have a plumber come out to your home and drain and flush the tank every six months to a year. They will simply turn off the power, attach a hose to the drain valve and let the water flow out until the tank is empty. Then the plumber will briefly turn the water back on to flush out any remaining sediment before refilling the tank. This quick maintenance step can be very effective in increasing the lifespan of your water heater.
Examine the Anode Rod
This metal rod inside your water heater prevents rust from damaging the tank by attracting corrosive elements in the water. However, the rod itself slowly wears down over time and needs to be replaced when it is too corroded. Inspect the anode rod at least once every two to three years. If it looks thin or corroded, it is time to replace it. An anode rod is inexpensive and easy to install, but it can make your water heater last longer by protecting the tank from rust and corrosion.
Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Another affordable way to keep your water heater working efficiently is by adding insulation. Wrapping the tank with an insulating blanket can reduce heat loss, and this will enable the water heater to maintain the desired temperature without working as hard. Insulating the pipes connected to the water heater is helpful, especially if they are in a cold area like a basement. This prevents heat from escaping and will reduce the workload on your water heater and cut down on energy costs.
Lower the Temperature Setting
Many water heaters are set to a default temperature of 140°F, which is hotter than necessary for household usage. Lowering the thermostat to around 120°F can reduce wear and tear on the system and make it last longer. Plus, it lowers the risk of scalding and saves on energy costs. This simple adjustment helps reduce how hard your water heater has to work and can make a significant difference over time.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
It is always a good idea to have a professional technician inspect your water heater annually. They can spot potential problems early and make sure everything is working as it should. Regular maintenance prevents small issues from turning into costly repairs and helps your water heater to keep running efficiently.
A little bit of routine care can keep your water heater running for a long time. If you need maintenance and repair on water heater in Fountain Valley, CA, contact Carlson Plumbing.
