The Importance of Maintaining the Water Heater
The water heater is one of the most important appliances in the home, providing hot water for sanitation and bathing. Unfortunately, too many owners forget about the water heater, which is likely tucked away in a basement or closet. After years of neglect, water heaters can suffer from wear and tear, requiring costly repairs and running up utility bills due to poor efficiency. Luckily, this scenario is preventable by following some simple professional advice.
To keep the water heater running reliably, all that is needed is annual water heater maintenance. This article is a quick guide to help homeowners understand what happens during water heater maintenance, why it is important, and how often to schedule water heater service.
Steps Done During Water Heater Maintenance?
Water heaters come in two main styles: water tanks and tankless water heaters. Water tanks are the most popular choice for most homes simply because they have a time-tested design, and most homes are already outfitted to accommodate them. Unfortunately, hot water tanks are more likely to succumb to problems over the years because of how they operate. First, the water velocity can slow down in the tank, leading to the settling of solids. During maintenance, plumbers drain and flush the tank to remove the solids interfering with water heater volume and efficiency.
The large tanks conventional water heaters use are also notorious for failing due to corrosion. Every water heater has a device called an anode rod that sacrifices itself to protect the tank. After a few years, the anode rod will be completely degraded. During water heater maintenance, plumbers will inspect and replace the rod if necessary to prevent corrosion.
Both water tanks and tankless water heaters must maintain their heating elements and burners to ensure proper efficiency. During maintenance, plumbers ensure the heating devices are efficient and working well. They will also check all electrical connections and valves.
Reasons for Water Heater Maintenance
Water heater maintenance is a great investment regardless of the type of water heater present. Water heaters use a lot of energy to heat water, so their operation and efficiency have big implications for utility bills. Water heater maintenance is essential, especially in protecting its efficiency.
Repairs must be prevented to reduce further the cost of owning a water heater. During maintenance, the steps taken by plumbers reduce the likelihood of problems in the future. Owners can keep their operating costs to a minimum by preventing costly bills.
How Often Is Maintenance Recommended?
Most experts recommend water heater maintenance every year. However, if a tank has been neglected for a while, or the water source needs to be better or has a high mineral content, more frequent maintenance may be optimal. Local plumbers will know best regarding the interval due to local water conditions. By starting a maintenance program now, homeowners can partner with local experts and better care for their water heaters to save a ton of money over the long run.
About Laney's Inc.
Laney's Inc. maximizes the value of the plumbing in every home with expert maintenance and repairs. They never charge overtime rates for emergencies and offer regular repairs at upfront pricing. Call today for plumbing repairs and hot water maintenance in Fargo, ND.
