Water heaters are life savers and an essential addition to every home. Yet, most homeowners pay little attention to this household appliance until it stops working. There is a lot that can prolong the life of a water heater. However, handling this appliance can be risky, so seeking help from licensed water heater experts is best.
Let’s explore tried and tested measures homeowners can implement to help maintain water heaters.
REGULARLY CHECK THE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
This valve regulates pressure inside the tank. If the valve is faulty, the situation can easily result in a burst tank. Sediment build-up inside the tank can block the valve. While homeowners can monitor this, it’s best to contact a certified water heater contractor due to the safety measures that must be observed.
WATER HEATER FLUSH
Sediment build-up in the water heater tank is a cause for concern. Not only does it cause your water heater to overwork, but in the long run, it can cause wear and tear inside the tank leading to leakage. Regularly drain the tank and run water through it until it runs clear. Conducting hot water flushes for the tank is a great way to maintain the water heater system.
IMPROVE WATER QUALITY
Low water quality comes with high sediment concentration. This can, over time, build up inside your hot water system and overtax it. Too much stress on this home appliance will reduce its life span. Therefore, it is best that homeowners living in areas with hard water install a water softener and water filter in the tank. This will help mitigate the issue and ultimately help extend the water heater’s life.
ADD A THERMAL EXPANSION TANK
Heated water expands. This expansion causes pressure to build in the tank which, if not regulated, could cause faults in the water heating system. The tank can also burst from this pressure. Adding an expansion tank will help relieve the pressure from the water heater. Licensed water heater experts can gauge the pressure and advise you correctly. Anything over 50 psi but not exceeding 80 psi is ideal.
EVALUATE THE ANODE ROD
The anode rod is critical in extending your water heater’s life span. It protects the heater from rust corrosion. But, homeowners should check it occasionally because it eventually gets rusty. Evaluating it will help you detect any change before the inside of your heater is affected by rust.
PROLONG THE LIFE OF THE WATER HEATER
Water heaters are a pricey investment and can be costly to repair. But they can operate for over a decade if well-maintained. Conducting annual checks through licensed water heater technicians guarantees homeowners maximum value.
Water Heater Pros provides water heater installation and replacement services for Las Vegas and surrounding area residents and businesses. Our expert technicians install both traditional and tankless water heaters for homes and other buildings with gas or electric service. We offer the highest quality installers for efficient, versatile water heaters such as Rheem. Ruud, high-efficiency tankless Navien units, and more. Ask about our installation specials.