What do you do when you go to hop into a nice warm shower in the dead of winter, but instead, the water coming out is freezing?
Every time you cook a meal, wash the dishes, use your washing machine or take a shower, you count on your water heater to work. Taking care of the home’s water heater is something that typically falls to the wayside by homeowners. Without proper maintenance, it will become less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.
What if you’ve had a brand new water heater installed, what steps can you take to extend its life as long as possible? The more you prolong the life of your water heater, the more money you’ll save and the fewer headaches you will suffer.
Here are five essential tips to extend the life of your water heater:
- Inspect Regularly: Look for signs of wear and tear. Inspections can help you catch potential problems before they turn into bigger repairs or even replacements. It’s best to give your local plumber a call if you see obvious wear and tear.
- Flush Yearly: It’s important to drain your water heater annually. This allows you to clean out the interior of the tank and remove any buildup. Doing so will help prolong the life of your unit.
- Install Insulation: An insulated water tank will prevent heat from escaping. This, in return, will lead to lower energy bills and less work your water heater will have to do to perform essential functions. Insulation will also prevent water from freezing in the pipes and avoid costly repairs or a burst pipe inside your home.
- Lower the Temperature: As a rule, all uses for hot water in your home can be accomplished with a temperature of 120 degrees or lower. Temperatures any hotter can result in burns. Lowering your water heater’s temperature will also help reduce your overall energy bill.
- Replace the Air Intake Filter: If you have a tankless water heater, this maintenance tip is critical! Over time, tankless water heaters build up debris on the filter. A clean filter allows your unit to function correctly. Replacing the filter regularly will ensure your tankless water heater will continue to provide the necessary functions.
When you have a problem with your water heater, call a skilled and experienced plumber. Your water heater is essential to your everyday life. Without proper maintenance, it will become less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.