Your water heater is what's responsible for all the hot water you get from your sinks and showers. Like any home appliance, you need to properly maintain your water heater to ensure optimal performance. With that in mind, the team at Roto-Rooter of St. Cloud, MN, is here with these helpful tips to maintain your water heater for years to come.
1. Periodically Drain the Tank
You should flux the water heater tank at least once every six months to a year. Flushing and draining the tank tests the drain valve and keeps the discharge pipe clear of blockages. Draining the tank is as simple as opening the drain valve and letting the water flow for a few minutes. Make sure you turn the shutoff valve before draining the tank.
How to drain the Water Heater tank?
Here are 5 Easy Steps to drain your Water Heater Tank:
1. Shut off the unit from the circuit box
2. Shut off the cold water supply line. Leading to the water heater.
3. Open up the hot water heater faucet at the highest point in the house.
4. Hook up the water hose to the drain at the bottom.
5. Extend the hose outside and open the valve to let the water drain outside
More detailed step-by-step guide in the video.
2. Adjust Temperature Dial
You should keep your hot water at about 120 degrees F, as any higher causes unnecessary strain and can increase your energy costs and reduce your water heater's efficiency. If you are leaving for an extended period, you should turn the water temperature down.
3. Visually Inspect the System
Regardless if you have a water heater tank or tankless water heater, you should get in the habit of inspecting the appliance to look for signs of leaks and damage. If you find any leaks, call an expert to patch the holes and professionally inspect and maintain your water heater.
4. Test Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve allows the heater to vent pressure from the hot water to prevent tank and pipe damage. You can test the relief valve as part of routine water heater maintenance by opening it and listening for the characteristic hiss of escaping water vapor and gas. If the valve is stuck, don't try to force it open, as it could be dangerous.
5. Check the Anode Rod
Your water heater tank is susceptible to scale and sediment buildup from mineral deposits in the water. The anode rod exists to capture the majority of this sediment and prevent buildup in the tank. If the anode rod is highly corroded, you should replace it with a new rod.
6. Tighten Connections
Unlike electric water heaters, gas water heaters connect to a gas supply piped in through the walls. Loose connections on gas heaters can cause gas leaks that pose a health hazard to you and your family. With an electric heater, tightening electrical connections can prevent the heater from tripping the circuit breaker from improper current draw or voltage.
Water Heater Replacement & Water Heater Installation Near Me
Roto-Rooter of St. Cloud, MN, is the best provider of gas water heater and electric water heater services. Our expert team has over 85 years of experience as a residential and commercial plumber. We can help maintain your water heater and protect your investment.
Next time you search for "water heater maintenance near me," contact us online or give us a call at (320) 207-1079 to speak to an emergency plumber!
