2 minute read
5 Essential Water Heater Maintenance Tips
by Expert Contributor Ryan Corbett, Master Plumber and Co-Owner of Dream Team Home Services
PICTURE THIS: You think you’re hopping into a warm shower in the dead of winter, but instead, the water coming out is freezing!
Your water heater is needed every time you cook a meal, wash the dishes, use your washing machine or take a shower. Taking care of the home's water heater is something that typically falls to the wayside by homeowners. Without proper maintenance, it will become less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.
Similarly, if you’ve had a bran-new water heater installed, do you know how to prolong its life? The more you prolong the life of your water heater, the more money you’ll save and the fewer headaches you will suffer.
5 Essential Water Heater Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect Regularly
Look for signs of wear and tear. Inspections can help you catch potential problems before they turn into bigger repairs or even replacements. It's best to give your local plumber a call if you see obvious wear and tear.
2. Flush Yearly
It’s important to drain your water heater annually. This allows you to clean out the interior of the tank and remove any buildup. Doing so will help prolong the life of your unit.
3. Install Insulation
An insulated water tank will prevent heat from escaping. This, in return, will lead to lower energy bills and less work your water heater will have to do to perform essential functions. Insulation will also prevent water from freezing in the pipes and avoid costly repairs or a burst pipe inside your home.
4. Lower the Temperature
As a rule, all uses for hot water in your home can be accomplished with a temperature of 120 degrees or lower. Temperatures any hotter can result in burns. Lowering your water heater's temperature will also help reduce your overall energy bill.
5. Replace the Air Intake Filter
If you have a tankless water heater, this maintenance tip is critical! Over time, tankless water heaters build up debris on the filter. A clean filter allows your unit to function correctly. Replacing the filter regularly will ensure your tankless water heater will continue to provide the necessary functions.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
One of the most important things you can do when you have a problem water heater is to call a skilled and experienced plumber. When you find yourself stuck with taking cold showers in the dead of winter, it's time to call the experts.
Your water heater is essential to your everyday life. Without proper maintenance, it will become less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.
Expert Contributor Ryan Corbett, Master Plumber and Co-Owner of Dream Team Home Services
DREAM TEAM Home Services
610-215-9937
www.DreamTeamPA.com
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