Saturday, August 10, 2013

Gas Water Heater Maintenance Tips

Gas Water Heater Maintenance Tips

By Brian Winters


Performing regular water heater maintenance is one of the most important yet neglected tasks every homeowner needs to be aware of. To keep a water heater running smoothly, it makes a big difference inspecting it from time to time. For guaranteed results, it's better to ask help from a specialist whenever it's time to maintain the water heater.

You should know the fact that your water heater consumes about twenty percent of your energy costs. To reduce it, you can set the temperature to a lower setting without having to compromise the water volume and temperature.

Water heaters can last for about 8 to 12 years if it has been properly maintained. Some units can last for about 15 years, but expect your electric bill to soar in the long run. Follow the tips listed below if you want to prolong the lifespan of your water heater.

Before carrying out repairs, always make sure the gas supply valve is turned off. Take note that water heaters, if not handle properly, can convert into dangerous heating devices. Turn off the cold water supply valve to stop water from entering the unit while the maintenance is ongoing.

To start, check whether the unit is receiving an adequate airflow right to the burner area. You can refer to the local building and plumbing codes to know the dimensions for air inlets. However, you have to make sure there are no flammable liquids near the unit during the maintenance period. To learn more about the proper burning pattern, check your operating manual.

Prevent gas from leaking by tightening the gas connections from time to time. Do not neglect this step since inhaling gas is hazardous to your health. Ask help from a specialist if you're not sure how to repair loose gas connections.

Check the venting system usually located at the top of the tank. You should find the flue pipe and other fittings that come with it. This area should be checked often to protect it from deteriorating. You may have to replace the venting system as soon as it corrodes.

Always have your unit checked by a specialist to keep it up and running. Sometimes, it takes a tweak or two to solve the issue, without having to replace the unit. Do not attempt to fix the heater without professional help as this can cause the problem to escalate.




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