Most homeowners ignore their water heaters until there’s a problem with them. When left neglected, however, not only will it shorten their lifespan, but it will also increase utility costs. That said, it pays to take proactive steps to make the most of your traditional or tankless water heater. Carter’s Plumbing shares a few ways you can maximize its service life.
Perform Routine Maintenance
You should regularly perform maintenance checks on your water heater to see if there are any water leaks. Look for gaps and cracks along the body of the unit. If you notice any problems, you should immediately contact a professional to perform water heater repair in Clarkston, MI. In most cases, simply tightening a pipe is all that’s necessary.
Test the Pressure-Relief Valve
The pressure-relief valve is a safety measure built into the heater to release pressure when it gets too high. When a water heater’s internal pressure becomes too high, it can burst.
Testing the pressure-relief valve is easy and merely requires you to lift the lever from the other side or top of your heater. If no water comes out of the pipe when you lift it, you probably need water heater services.
Flush the Tank
A big part of water heater maintenance involves flushing the tank at least once per year. This helps to eliminate sediment buildup, which can lead to problems such as low water pressure, potential bursting, and higher energy bills.
Check the Anode Rod
Inspecting the condition of the anode rod is a good way to lengthen the life of your tank-type water heater. This is a piece of metal installed in the heater to prevent rusting. It collects all of the corrosion before it can enter the tank. You should inspect the anode rod at least once per year and have it replaced by your go-to plumber once it’s rusted. It should last you around three to five years.
Give it Enough Space
When it comes to water heater installation, ensure that your heater has plenty of space around it. This makes it easier to inspect and allows adequate airflow to prevent the risk of a fire.
Let Carter’s Plumbing take care of your water heater replacement and maintenance needs. We recommend solutions that will keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment with our team.
