Like other household appliances, regularly maintaining your home’s hot water heater can extend its useful life. Because we rely on water heaters daily, it’s important to make sure they are properly maintained. A regular maintenance schedule can keep it running for its 15-year expected lifetime and possibly beyond. Follow FloHawks’ water heater maintenance tips below.
- You can improve the efficiency of an older unit by insulating it with a fiberglass jacket. Newer units are already insulated so check your owner’s manual to make sure.
- Test the valve. Both gas and electric water heaters have a safety device called a temperature and pressure relief valve. If too much pressure ever builds up in the tank, the relief valve opens and releases the pressure. This will prevent damage to your tank. Open the valve, let the tank release some water. If the valve stops then you know it is in good working order. If not, then you will need to replace it.
- Flush the system. At least once a year, drain several gallons out of your water heater using the drain valve. This will help to remove sediment and debris and will also help to make the unit operate more quietly. Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce your water heater’s energy efficiency and also clog your water lines. You can flush the system by connecting a garden hose to the drain valve and letting the water run into a bucket until the water is clear. Be sure to run it to a place where the hot water will not cause damage.
- Check the water temperature. One major sign that your hot water heater has reached the end of its useful life is fluctuations in temperature. If your heater is not producing hot water or produces less hot water than it used to, chances are you need to get it repaired or replaced. Set the thermostat to 120 degrees. You will save up to 5% in energy costs for every 10 degrees you lower the temperature, plus you’ll reduce the risk of scalding.
If your heater is old, leaks, makes loud noises, or fails to consistently produce hot water, it is probably at the end of its useful life. If you are experiencing any of these issues or any others with your water heater, the professionals at FloHawks will be happy to inspect your unit. They can help you diagnose and fix any problems with your water heater or help you replace the existing one within your home.
Both electric and gas heaters can be very dangerous so do not risk trying to fix a problem on your own – it’s best to leave it to a professional like FloHawks. Learn more about FloHawks’ professional water heater installation and repair services here. Our FloHawks technicians are available 24/7 to help you with your water heater or any other household plumbing or septic issue. Call us today at 1-800-356-4295 or contact us online.
