A water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home, providing you with hot water for daily activities like bathing, cleaning, and cooking. However, without proper maintenance, your water heater’s efficiency can decrease over time, and it may even fail when you need it most. At Frost & Kretsch Plumbing, we believe in helping our customers keep their water heaters running smoothly for as long as possible. Here are some water heater maintenance tips to extend its lifespan and ensure it operates at peak efficiency.
1. Flush the Tank Regularly
Over time, sediment can build up inside the tank of your water heater, particularly if you have hard water. This sediment buildup can affect the heater’s efficiency and even cause it to overheat. To prevent this, it’s important to flush the tank at least once a year. Flushing the tank will help remove the sediment and ensure that your water heater runs efficiently. If you’re unsure how to do this, Frost & Kretsch Plumbing can assist with this simple yet essential task.
2. Check the Temperature Setting
Many water heaters are set to a default temperature of around 140°F. However, lowering the temperature to 120°F can not only save you energy but also extend the life of your water heater. A lower temperature reduces the strain on the unit and minimizes the risk of overheating. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your energy bills and the lifespan of your appliance.
3. Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod inside your water heater helps prevent the tank from corroding. Over time, the anode rod can degrade and become less effective, leading to rust and corrosion inside the tank. It’s a good idea to inspect the anode rod every 2-3 years and replace it when necessary. By doing this, you can prevent leaks and damage to your water heater, which can be costly to repair.
4. Keep the Area Around the Heater Clean
Make sure to keep the area around your water heater clean and free of dust, debris, and other clutter. Allowing dust and dirt to build up can restrict airflow, which can make the heater work harder and less efficiently. Regularly cleaning around the unit ensures optimal airflow and reduces the risk of overheating.
5. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
If you have an older water heater, insulating the tank and the surrounding pipes can help maintain the water temperature and reduce heat loss. This is especially helpful during colder months. By reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain the water temperature, you can save money on your energy bills and improve the overall efficiency of your water heater.
6. Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
Even if you follow the basic maintenance steps, it’s always a good idea to schedule an annual inspection with a professional plumber. A trained plumber from Frost & Kretsch Plumbing can inspect your water heater for potential issues, clean components, and ensure that the unit is running smoothly. Preventative maintenance can catch small issues before they become bigger, more costly problems.
Call Frost & Kretsch Plumbing for Expert Water Heater Services
Regular water heater maintenance is essential for keeping your system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. If you need help with any of these maintenance tasks, or if you’re unsure about the condition of your water heater, don’t hesitate to reach out to Frost & Kretsch Plumbing. Our expert plumbers are ready to help with inspections, repairs, and installations.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, give us a call today!
Address: 33717 Woodward #246, Birmingham, MI 48009
Phone: (248) 600-0426
Website: https://oakland-plumbers.com/
Taking good care of your water heater will ensure that you get the most out of your investment and enjoy reliable hot water for years to come.
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