What Is Proper Maintenance On A Water Heater?
Proper maintenance on a water heater is the best choice for your home or business water heater needs. Water heaters are essential appliances in every home. They provide hot water for bathing, cooking, cleaning and laundry. If they fail or break down, you’ll face serious health risks.
Water heaters come in two types – electric and gas. Electric water heaters are powered by electricity, whereas gas ones run on natural gas. Both types require regular maintenance to ensure their safety and efficiency.
Regularly checking the temperature of the water in your tank, replacing filters, and maintaining the system are some of the things you should look out for. Here’s what proper maintenance entails:
- Checking The Temperature Of Your Tank
The first thing that you need to do when it comes to hot water heater maintenance is to check its temperature. You can use an inexpensive thermometer to measure the temperature of the water inside the water heater tank. Make sure that you don’t put the thermometer into the coldest part of the tank because this will cause the reading to be inaccurate.
You should also make sure that the thermostat is set correctly. It should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit if you have a gas-powered unit and 140 degrees Fahrenheit if you have an electric one.
- Replacing Filters
Filters are important parts of any gas water heater. They help remove impurities from the water as it circulates through the tank. When they get clogged with sediment, they reduce the flow of water and lower the efficiency of the heater.
When you replace them, make sure that you remove sediment and clean the filter thoroughly before installing it. This ensures that there are no particles left behind.
- Maintaining The System
There are many other things that you can do to maintain a water heater. For instance, you should regularly inspect the heating elements to see if they’re getting dirty. Cleaning them helps prevent rust and corrosion.
If you notice that the water level is low, you should add more water to the tank. Also, make sure that the drain valve is working properly.
- Inspecting The Thermostat
Your water heater has a thermostat that regulates the amount of energy used to heat the water. To ensure that the water stays within safe limits, you should periodically check the thermostat.
It’s recommended that you change the thermostat once every year. However, if you live in a colder climate, you may want to change it sooner.
How do I know if my water heater needs repair?
If you find yourself wondering whether your water heater needs repair, here are some signs that indicate that it does.
- There Are Leaks In The House
Leaking water is a sign that something is wrong with your water heater. If you spot leaks around the house, you should call a professional immediately.
- The Unit Isn’t Working As Well As It Used To
If your water heater isn’t producing enough hot water, then you need to fix it right away.
- The Water Level Is Low
A low water level means that the water heater is not functioning properly. If you notice that the water is only half full, then you should contact a professional immediately.
- The Thermostat Has Been Set Too High
Setting the thermostat too high can damage your water heater. If the thermostat is constantly on, then you’ll end up using more energy than necessary.
- The Unit Runs Very Hot Or Cold
If you notice that your water heater runs very hot or cold water supply, then you should call a professional. These temperatures could mean that the system is malfunctioning.
- The Drain Valve Doesn’t Work
If the drain valve doesn’t work, then you should call for repairs.
- Your Tank Needs Replaced
If you notice that there are cracks in the bottom of your tank, then you should call an expert. Cracks in the tank can lead to serious problems.
- The Gas Line Is Dirty
Dirty lines can cause dangerous gases to build up inside the tank. If you notice that your gas line looks dirty, then you should have it cleaned.
- You Can’t Turn Off The Water Supply
If you can’t turn off the water supply, then you should call someone who knows how to fix this problem.
- The Pressure Relief Valve Won’t Open
The pressure relief valve is designed to release excess pressure when the water heater gets too hot. If it won’t open, then you should call professionals.
- The Anode Rod Is Damaged
The anode rod is responsible for removing any impurities from the water. If it becomes damaged, then you should call experts.
- The Filter Needs Changing
You should change the filter at least once per month. Doing so will help keep your water running smoothly.
- The Water Heater Stops Producing Heat
If your water heater stops heating the water, then you should call the professionals. This could be a sign that the unit is broken.
- The Water Heater Is Making Strange Sounds
Strange sounds coming from your water heater could be a sign that it’s breaking down. You should call a professional as soon as possible.
- The Water Heater Keeps Spinning
Spinning water heaters are usually caused by a clog in the water pipe. If you see this happening, you should call a gas plumber.
What are some common problems with water heaters?
Common problems with water heaters include
- Leaks are one of the most common problems with water heaters. They can occur anywhere, including under sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, etc.
- Slow flow rates are another common problem with water heaters. This occurs because the water heater has been turned off for a long time.
- No hot water
is also a common problem with water heaters. It happens if the temperature and pressure setting is set too high.
- Low water levels are another common problem with a water heater. This can happen if the water heater isn’t working properly.
- Clogged drains are yet another common problem with water heaters. This happens when hair, soap scum, grease, etc. get trapped in the drain.
- High water bills are another common problem with the water heater. This happens because the water heater is not producing enough hot water.
- Broken parts are another common problem with your water heater. This happens due to wear and tear.
- Frozen pipes are another common problem with home appliances. This happens when the pipes freeze during winter.
- Hot water is another common problem with water heating systems.
- Overheating is another common problem with home appliances.
Why water heater is important?
Water heaters play a vital role in our daily life. Without them, we would have no hot water or warm showers.
Here are some reasons why you need to maintain your water heater:
- Safety
It is very dangerous to use cold water in cooking, washing dishes, or bathing. Cold water can cause burns, cuts, and other injuries.
- Energy savings
A well-maintained water heater saves energy efficiency. In fact, it can save up to 30% on your monthly utility bill.
- Health
A clean water heater keeps bacteria out of your drinking water. This prevents diseases like cholera and typhoid fever.
- Cleanliness
Your water heater helps remove dirt and debris from your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and more.
- Comfort
You will feel much better after taking a shower or bath using hot water instead of cold water.
How often do I need to check my water heater?
The best way to know how often you should check your water heater is to look at its manual. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Check your water heater every month.
- Check your water filter once a year.
- Check your pressure relief valve once a year.
If you notice any strange noises coming from your water heater, contact your local plumbing service provider immediately.
If you see any leaks, call your local plumbing service provider right away.
Do I need to replace my old water heater?
Yes! If you want to make sure that your new water heater lasts longer than your current one, then you should consider replacing it.
However, there are many factors that determine whether you need to replace your water heater or not. Here are some things that you should take into consideration before making this decision:
- How old is your water heater?
- How long has it been since you last checked your water heater?
- What type of water heater do you currently own?
- Do you live in an area where the weather is cold?
- Are you planning to install a new appliance in your house?
If you answered yes to all these questions, then you may be ready for a replacement.
If you answered no to most of these questions, then you probably don’t need to replace your water
heater yet. You can still enjoy the benefits of having a newer model.
Maintaining your water heater is essential to keep it working properly. It also ensures that you get the maximum benefit from your investment. PRO TEK Plumbing Services offers professional gas plumbing services in Sydney, Australia.
We provide reliable plumbing solutions for residential and commercial properties. Our team of highly skilled technicians are available 24/7 to help you with all your plumbing needs. Call us today for more information about our services.
