Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Hot water is one of the biggest blessings during the winter season. We take it for granted but its unavailability even for a single day can cause a serious disturbance to our life. Water heaters are the primary source of hot water in households. The principle of gratitude dictates for us to take due care of this amazing appliance in our home but, sadly, most people fail to appreciate its importance. This results in water heaters suddenly going rogue and declining to heat water for us.
With proper maintenance, the life of water heaters can be extended for several years. Furthermore, the right maintenance will ensure that no sudden problems arise. The good news is that water heater maintenance is not as difficult as it might seem. Let’s see some of the top water heater maintenance tips that can be used by almost everyone.
1. Complete flush and maintenance:
In order to avoid corrosion and rust (and hence the smelly and discolored water), it is recommended on most water heaters that you have a complete flush and diagnostic check every year. If you see this as a very hectic job, you may want to seek professional help or perform a mini-flush, by draining the water through the drain valve.
2. Temperature and Pressure Valve:
T&P (Temperature and Pressure) valve is one of the most important components of any water heater as it saves you and your house from the dangers of the unnecessarily high buildup of pressure or temperature. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to ensure every few months that this valve is in fine working condition. Simply open the valve manually by lifting up its level and let the hot water flow for a few seconds and then close the valve. If the water continues to leak or the valve does not open in the first place, then the valve must be replaced immediately.
3. Experiment with adjusting temperature, pressure and other options available in your water heater to make sure that all of them work in the desired manner. If you find any discrepancy, then use your skills and knowledge to adjust it or find a professional service provider to help you do so.
Remember to take all precautionary measures and ensure you have the right set of tools and knowledge before beginning your water heater maintenance. For example, ensure that the gas pilot light is off, the circuit breaker is switched off and you have the bucket (for water drain). Give Smith and Son Plumbing a ring to discuss any of these tips and to inquire about our special maintenance agreement that is now 50% off for our 50th anniversary.
