Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Why Perform Hot Water Heater Maintenance

Why Perform Hot Water Heater Maintenance

By Brian Winters


It is normal for a water heater not to get much attention up until it stops producing enough hot water for your household. The internal components are more likely to rust if you don't perform regular water heater maintenance. If this is the case, expect the heating efficiency to be affected as it consumes more energy than it normally does. You may have to replace your water heater soon since rust and corrosion shortens its lifespan in the long run.

Without a doubt, a water heater's lifespan can be extended through regular flushing and draining. Sediments that are left inside the tank over a period of time can eat the tank lining which leads to major leaking issues. Flush the storage tank every six months to prevent sediments from building up.

Energy costs can also be reduced through regular maintenance. Remember that a heater with a poor heating efficiency can cause your electric bill to soar. A tank filled with hard water minerals will find it hard to heat water, thus, resulting in pricey energy costs. Remove all the sediments and filth to keep your tank operating smoothly.

Draining your tank can boost its heating efficiency as it removes 95% of the sediments lying at the bottom of the tank. To avoid scalding burns, turn off the water heater the night before draining it. Doing this also saves water and electricity at the same time.

If the sediments continue to build up even after draining the tank, it is possible that your anode rod has fully deteriorated. This sacrificial rod should be checked regularly since it absorbs all the charged water molecules that develop every time minerals start to precipitate. This anode rod can minimize the sediments inside, thus protecting the internal lining from rusting completely. Fighting against rust and corrosion is one of the most important reasons why regular maintenance is a must.

Always make sure the T&P valve is working at all times since this valve is designed to release excessive pressure inside the tank, protecting it from overheating and blowing up. It helps adjusting the thermostat settings between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit to minimize the relief valve from opening.

Regular maintenance can also prevent major leaking issues. Checking the plumbing connections and the pipe fittings is important to detect early signs of leaks. Letting your water heater leak for a long time can cause the sediments to find their way out of the tank, developing holes in the process. When this happens, you are left with no choice but to replace the water heater immediately.

Keep your water heater in tip-top shape by performing regular water heater maintenance. When unsure, you can always ask help from a specialist for guaranteed results. It's about time you maintain your heating system to avoid costly repairs in the future.




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