How to Maximize the Life of Your Water Heater

One-and-Done Maintenance

Some of the things needed to maintain your water heater can be done only once and you won’t have to look back at it again. Follow these easy plumber tips that help to extend the life of your water heater.

Space – Before installation, make sure your water heater has plenty of open space around it. This will help you with your maintenance checks, giving you some much-needed space for inspection. The heater will also have room for allowing air in, which can help reduce fire hazards.

Insulation and Temperature – You should install some insulation around the pipes and the heater. Cover both hot water and cold-water pipes. Setting the temperature is usually done once. However, if you will be leaving home for a long time, we recommend adjusting the temperature accordingly then switching it back when you return. When leaving for a long time, set the temperature to the lowest setting or shut it off until returning home.

Water Softeners – If you live in an area that has high mineral content in its water systems, then you most likely have hard water. Hard water can be a factor in cutting the lifespan of your water heater because it causes a mineral content buildup in your heater. This can also lead to the need for a water heater repair. If you live in an area with hard water, then water softeners can help remove the minerals seeping into your water heater.

Regular Maintenance

While the above tips are done once only, there are other ways in which your water heater should be checked on regularly.

Check-ups – Annual checks should be done on your heater to make sure no damage is done. Even a small crack or leak in the body or pipes can lead to frustrating problems like flooding. Be sure to call the professionals for repairing your heater if anything abnormal is sighted.

Anode Rod – An anode rod is a piece of metal that prevents the water heater from rusting. It is an important piece in the heater because it attracts all the corrosion before it can reach the tank. It should be annually maintained to make sure the rust is not fully corroded, considering if it is, then the rod cannot prevent the corrosion and it will move on to the tank itself.

Along with the above tips, you can regularly check on other factors as well, such as testing the temperature pressure-relief valve, inspecting gas lines, and flushing the tank. Being well educated about what your water heater needs is necessary for maintaining it properly. Check with Sunshine Plumbers to make sure you have everything covered.