Simple Steps for Extending the Life of Your Water Heater

Posted on June 29, 2024.

A well-functioning water heater is crucial for the comfort and efficiency of your home, providing the hot water you need for daily tasks. Yet, many homeowners overlook the simple steps that can significantly extend its life. 

This article will guide you through practical and easy-to-follow tips to help you maintain your water heater, ensuring it serves you effectively for years to come. Let’s dive into these valuable insights to keep it running smoothly and your home warm and welcoming. 

Embrace Regular Preventative Maintenance 

Embracing regular preventative maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your water heater. Often, people overlook the importance of routine check-ups, but investing time in preventive maintenance on a hot water heater can save you from bigger issues down the road. Additionally, flushing the tank annually removes sediment buildup, which, if left unchecked, can make your heater work much harder than necessary, reducing its efficiency and potentially shortening its life. Addressing these tasks not only ensures the smooth operation of your water heater but also improves its energy efficiency. 

Another vital task in regular preventative maintenance involves checking the pressure relief valve. This valve releases excess pressure if the tank gets too hot, providing a critical safety feature. Ensure it functions correctly by lifting the valve’s lever and letting it snap back. A proper seal is crucial to preventing leaks. Furthermore, examining and insulating the water heater’s pipes can reduce heat loss and help maintain a consistent temperature, contributing to your water heater’s overall performance and lifespan. Remember, taking these precautionary measures can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. 

The Importance of Maintenance 

Professional water heater maintenance goes beyond what a typical homeowner might accomplish with basic DIY. Certified plumbers bring a level of expertise and experience that's crucial for a comprehensive check. For example, while you might flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, a plumber checks for signs of corrosion and any weaknesses in the tank that could lead to bigger issues down the lane. 

Moreover, plumbers utilize a thorough professional checklist, ensuring that all critical components are evaluated and maintained. A professional will meticulously inspect the anode rod, replace it if it's too corroded, and assess the pressure relief valve's functionality. These tasks might seem straightforward, but having a trained eye can prevent potential oversights, catching issues that are not apparent to the untrained eye. 

Beyond this, there are components within a water heater that require specialized tools and expertise to assess and maintain properly. For example, when plumbers inspect the heating elements in electric water heaters or the burner assembly in gas heaters, they are trained to spot signs of wear or potential failure. They also have the tools necessary for safely handling and replacing these parts, something most homeowners might not have on hand. 

The expertise of a professional can often make the difference between a minor fix and a costly repair. Furthermore, knowing when to call a plumber can be a safeguard against safety hazards. Incorrectly maintained water heaters can become pressure hazards or pose risks of water damage. Ensuring your water heater is up to code and functioning safely is another critical part of professional maintenance. So, while you might handle the basics, the in-depth care from a professional ensures every facet of your water heater is in optimal condition, giving you tranquility and a longer-lasting, efficient heater. 

Troubleshooting Common Problems 

Troubleshooting common water heater problems can sometimes be straightforward, but knowing when to attempt fixes yourself and when to call a plumber is crucial. One of the most frequent issues is insufficient hot water, often caused by a malfunctioning thermostat. Start by checking the thermostat settings; you want it to be around 120°F for optimal performance. If the thermostat appears fine, the problem might be sediment build-up affecting the heating element. In this case, draining the tank to remove the sediment could help. However, if the water still isn't hot enough, it could indicate a failing heating element, requiring professional replacement. 

Another common issue is discolored or rusty water, which often points to corrosion inside the tank. This might mean the anode rod needs replacement, something a new DIYer could manage, but if the problem persists, it's best to call in a professional. Strange noises like popping or rumbling from the tank often result from sediment hardening at the bottom of the heater. Flushing the tank can usually resolve this, but persistent issues might indicate more serious internal damage. 

Water heater leaks are another problematic area that requires immediate attention. Small leaks from the pressure relief valve may indicate excess pressure or overheating, easily checked and adjusted. However, significant leaks often signify severe problems within the tank itself, necessitating professional intervention to prevent water damage and ensure safety. 

If you notice the water heater is not responding to temperature adjustments, the thermostat may be faulty. Sometimes resetting the thermostat can fix this, but recurring issues should be inspected by an expert. Additionally, electrical connections and fuses can sometimes cause the heater to fail. Ensuring these components are secure and functional is vital, but attempting electrical repairs yourself can be dangerous; always call a plumber to handle these issues. 

Regular visual inspections can help catch early wear and tear signs, like corrosion or burnt components, enabling prompt professional intervention and preventing more significant issues down the line. Proper troubleshooting can save you substantial costs and extend the lifespan of your water heater system, making timely calls to a plumber vital when in doubt. 

Related - Signs That Your Water Heater Needs Replacement 

Wrapping Up 

Taking proper care of your water heater can greatly extend its lifespan and improve its efficiency. Regular maintenance and timely professional inspections are key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and ensuring a consistent supply of hot water for your home. 

At R.W.B. Plumbing Inc., we specialize in water heater installation and maintenance services, providing reliable and efficient solutions to meet your needs. We understand the importance of having a dependable water heater, and our team is dedicated to delivering top-quality service to keep your system running smoothly. Don't wait for problems to arise—be proactive in maintaining your water heater's performance. 

Schedule Your Water Heater Installation Today. 

You can also call us at 480 332 1457 or emailing [email protected]. Your home deserves the best in plumbing solutions, and we are here to help you achieve that.