Extending the Lifespan and Preventing Breakdowns of Your Water Heater
Water heaters are essential to our daily routines, providing us with warm showers and clean dishes. But like any appliance, they require proper maintenance to ensure that they function efficiently and last a long time. Here are some tips for maintaining your water heater to prevent breakdowns and extend its lifespan.
Check the pressure relief valve. As a vital safety feature, the pressure relief valve on your water heater vents any built-up pressure. Keeping this valve in good working order requires routine inspection. You can do this by opening the water heater’s valve a small amount and turning off the power supply. There should be a hissing noise or water to indicate that the valve is open and functioning properly.
Drain the tank. Sediment and other debris can accumulate in your water heater tank, reducing its efficiency and causing it to work harder to heat water, thus draining it at least once a year is important. Do this by turning off the power supply to your water heater, connecting a hose to the drain valve, and opening the valve to allow the water to flow out.
Inspect the anode rod. The anode rod is a sacrifice rod that keeps your water heater tank from rusting. Over time, this rod can lose its strength and become rusty, making it less useful. Check the anode rod by turning off the power to your water heater and pulling the anode rod out of the tank. If the rod is less than 1/2 inch thick or has calcium deposits on it, it needs to be replaced.
Check the thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of your water heater. It’s important to check the thermostat regularly to ensure that it’s working correctly. To do this, turn off the power supply to your water heater and use a multimeter to test the thermostat. Replace it if needed.
Insulate the tank. Insulating your water heater tank can help to reduce heat loss and improve its efficiency. To do this, purchase an insulation blanket and wrap it around your water heater tank. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and leave the controls, thermostat, and pressure relief valve exposed.
For proper maintenance of the water heaters for your home in Burleson, TX, reach out to the most trusted and reliable plumbers of Donald Geeo's Plumbing. Call us (817) 939-1642 today for more information.