Reasons A Water Heater Needs Proper Maintenance
Likely sitting in a closet somewhere is a home’s water heater that goes unseen, unheard, and forgotten most of the time. Many people tend to take hot water for granted, and some may not even know where their hot water comes from.
However, just like every other appliance in a home, a water heater needs proper maintenance to function as it should.
Is Cleaning (Flushing) a Water Heater a Big Deal?
Just because a water heater’s tank is filled with drinkable water does not mean that it is clean in any real sense of the word. Many areas have “hard water,” which means many minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, are dissolved in the water. They are not harmful to humans or animals, but they often leave traces behind in the tanks of water heaters and pipes.
Flushing the tank is an essential part of proper maintenance because the sediment formations can lead to problems in the water heater's efficiency, making the heater have to work harder. This decrease in efficiency leads to an increase in utility bills. The minerals and sediment can also lead to corrosion of the tank, meaning a replacement of the water heater will be necessary before its expected lifespan is up.
The sediment can combine with compounds in soap to form the soap scum that tends to line tubs and sinks. These mineral and dirt deposits can lead to some of the following problems:
- Tepid Temps: It’s hard for a water tank to maintain heat when a buildup is present.
- Low Water Pressure: This buildup can move into the pipes and narrow them, making it more difficult for water to pass through.
- Clogs: This buildup passing through can create clogs in pipes, faucets, or showerheads. It can be flushed down drains and hinder that movement as well.
It’s Not Just About Buildup
While this flaky mineral buildup is the primary reason to clean the hot water tank, the water heating unit itself may also need some attention beyond the cleaning. If professionals perform regular maintenance, they may find other things that need to be replaced, cleaned, or tweaked.Listed below are a few of the items that might need adjustments:
- PRV (pressure relief valve)
- Heating element
- Fuel pipes
- Water supply pipes
- Anode rod
- Electrical connections
- Check the tank for corrosion or leaks
What Good Does Maintenance Do?
Having annual maintenance makes a homeowner’s life easier. It provides peace of mind that their water heater works properly and most efficiently. Efficiency saves energy and money for the consumer. Water will flow freely and be as hot as needed.
The hot water will likely last longer because the clean water heater tank can heat more efficiently and may have a slightly larger capacity. Proper maintenance will prevent the higher cost of needing to replace the water heater too soon.
About Laney’s Inc.
Laney’s Inc. is a locally-owned company with more than 60 years of experience serving the residents of Fargo and the surrounding areas. They provide free estimates, no overtime charges, and are available to help 24/7. Call them today for water heater services in Fargo, ND.
