Water heaters are the unsung superheroes of the average American home. They maintain the pressure in your systems, they keep your water hot enough for cooking, and clean enough for your personal hygiene. With these things in mind, it’s crucial for every homeowner to check on their systems and do everything they can to keep them running smoothly.
Here are 3 easy ways you can help your water heater last for years to come.
Flush the Tank Several Times a Year
Water heaters work hard to keep the plumbing in your house running smoothly, but as they pull in water from your local systems, they may end up carrying the minerals and sediments that public water may contain.
To flush your water heater, start by securely connecting a good water hose to the drain spicket and extending it to an outside downhill area. Open the spicket and let 2 to 3 gallons flow out of the hose, stop the flow and wait for 5 minutes before letting another 2 to 3 gallons out of the water heater. REMEMBER THIS WATER IS EXTREMELY HOT AND CAUTION MUST BE TAKEN TO PREVENT PERSONAL INJURY.
Check Your Valves for Leaks
A leaky valve on your water heater can be a problem for even the cleanest of homeowners, as it can decrease your water pressure and potentially cause water damage to the environment around it.
To make sure your valves are strong and secure, shut off your water heater and loosen your valve with the trip lever. If you see or hear a short burst of water or steam exit, then your system is running smoothly. If nothing escapes when you do this test, be sure to completely empty your tank and replace the valve immediately.
Lower the Internal Temperature
An overperforming system can lead to an increase in your heating bills and put you at risk of burning when using the water.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that home water heaters do not exceed 120℉. You can keep your heater at this level by first turning off your system, taking out the thermostat that controls the temperature, fixing it, and then returning it to your system.
Maintaining your water heater can be an easy process and save you money, but it’s important to know what you’re doing and following a regular maintenance schedule. Give our home plumbing and electrical experts a call today at 903-838-6923 or visit us online and find out how we can help your system continue running smoothly this season.