A homeowner knows the importance of maintaining a furnace and central air conditioner. Yet, few people know how essential it is to maintain a water heater. Water heaters are generally taken for granted as long as they function. Both first-time and long-time homeowners generally leave their water heaters untouched until the water heater breaks down or refuses to work.
THE EFFECTS OF HARD WATER
During the process of water heater maintenance, a plumber can determine the ill effects of hard water on the plumbing system, including the water heater. Calcium can clog pipes and ports and wreak havoc on a water heater.
Finding out sooner rather than later how badly hard water is damaging the water heater not only allows a homeowner to address this problem for the health and functionality of the water heater but also for other appliances that rely on water to work. Maintaining a water heater alerts the homeowner that other appliances are in equal danger of damage from the hard water. It may be prudent to ask a plumber to install a water softener, which will lengthen the life of all water-dependent appliances.
SEDIMENT IN THE BOTTOM OF THE TANK
Inside a tank water heater, there is an anode rod. The rod collects and processes corrosive particles, which would otherwise destroy the water heater. When the water heater is maintained, a plumber can tell if this rod is rusting or breaking down faster than expected.
The plumber can tell by the quantity of sediment in the bottom of the tank, expressed when the plumber opens the bottom valve for annual draining. If so, the water heater must be replaced soon since neither the rod nor the sediment can be fully removed from the tank.
GAS LEAKS
A gas-fueled water heater can develop a gas leak. This is an extremely serious problem. It can be caught during routine maintenance and prevented. Since most water heaters are in places where air circulation does not exist (e.g., a basement), such a place can easily flood with gas, and a lit match will cause an explosion.
PILOT LIGHT PROBLEMS
Some water heaters have pilot lights. The problem with pilot lights is that the slightest draft can blow them out. A homeowner who does not know how to relight it can end up with icy cold water and possibly a gas or propane leak.
When the homeowner knows how to light the pilot light, but it won’t stay on, the reason could be a problem with the ignition switch. Such problems can be caught during regular maintenance. A plumber can, in the process of examining the water heater, make the repairs right away.
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.