Maintaining your home’s water heater is an important responsibility for new homeowners. If your hot water heater isn’t properly maintained, it can cause a multitude of damages from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. From regular draining and flushing to performing basic maintenance, here’s a guide for new homeowners to maintain their water heater.
The first step to good water heater maintenance is to learn how your water heater works. Pay attention to the type of unit you have, how to control the temperature, and be aware of potential issues related to your specific unit. This will give you a better idea of how to maintain it without having to call a technician.
Next, flush your water heater tank on a regular basis to flush out sediment and other impurities. You should also drain the tank until brown water runs out of the spigot, then refill it with fresh water. You should inspect the tank for signs of leakage and rust and make sure the tank is connected tightly.Regularly inspect the pressure valve to make sure it is not leaking.
Keep it Clean to Avoid Corrosion and Increase Efficiency
It is important to keep your water heater clean to avoid corrosion, ensure efficient operation, and to maintain its warranty. To do this, clean the outside of the tank with a soft brush and a mild detergent and scrub off any dirt or rust. Inside the tank, build up can be removed with a small amount of vinegar. Then, check all of the connection points to make sure they are properly connected.
During the cleaning process, inspect all of the plumbing connections for any corrosion, cracks, or leaks. Make sure the anode rod is working correctly and in good condition. If it is not, replace it as soon as possible.
Regularly Check the Temperature and Pressure
The temperature and pressure of the water in your water heater should be checked regularly. The temperature needs to be set within the limits recommended by the manufacturer and the pressure should stay at around 30 to 40 psi. If the pressure goes above or below this range, it could cause major damages to the unit.
Check the temperature and pressure gauges on the water heater monthly and adjust them as needed. If there is anything wrong with the temperature or pressure, contact a certified technician to repair it.
Another way to maintain the water heater’s efficiency and ensure it remains safe is to inspect the vent pipe and exhaust fan. These are responsible for releasing the flue gasses from the water heater into the air and should be free from blockages or clogs.
A Few Other Tips for Maintaining Your Water Heater
- Clean the filter regularly and replace it as needed.
- Check the drip pan to make sure it is not overflowing or blocked.
- Check the drain valve for leaks on a regular basis.
- Make sure the water heater is insulated to reduce heat loss.
- Replace the sacrificial anode rod as needed.
Conclusion
Maintaining your home’s water heater is an essential responsibility for homeowners. With proper maintenance, you can reduce the chances of costly repairs, save money on energy bills, and keep your family and home safe. Following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your water heater remains in good shape for years to come.