Water Heater Maintenance Explained
The water heater is an important household appliance that some people may rarely think about until they are shocked by an ice-cold shower or faced with a costly emergency repair. Yet this hardworking appliance silently provides comfort and convenience to daily life, heating anywhere from 50 to 80 gallons of water each day for a family's needs.
However, regular maintenance of the water heater isn't just about preventing those dreaded cold showers. It's also about protecting a homeowner’s investment by extending the unit's lifespan, ensuring energy efficiency, and saving homeowners money. This post will discuss water heater maintenance and why it should be a priority for every homeowner.
What Is Done During Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance encompasses several critical tasks impacting the unit's efficiency, performance, longevity, and safety. One essential maintenance procedure is draining and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, which occurs due to minerals naturally present in the water. This sediment layer can significantly reduce energy efficiency, cause problems heating the water, and eventually lead to tank corrosion if left unaddressed. Additionally, checking and replacing the anode rod, a sacrificial component designed to prevent tank corrosion, is crucial for extending the water heater's lifespan. A deteriorated anode rod leaves the tank vulnerable to rust and potential failure.
Testing the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is another essential maintenance task that should never be overlooked, as this component serves as a critical safety feature. The T&P valve prevents dangerous pressure buildup within the tank by releasing excess pressure when necessary. During maintenance, professionals will also inspect the unit for problems and check electrical connections in electric water heaters or gas lines and burner assemblies in gas models, ensuring all components are functioning correctly and safely. These routine checks help identify potential issues before they develop into costly repairs or dangerous situations while maintaining optimal energy efficiency and performance.
Benefits of Routine Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance delivers numerous benefits for households. By investing in routine maintenance, homeowners can significantly improve their unit's energy efficiency, and this enhanced performance results in cost savings on monthly utility bills. Additionally, well-maintained water heaters deliver more reliable hot water output with fewer problems and a lower risk of needing water heater repair.
Another benefit of regular maintenance is the extension of a water heater's lifespan, potentially adding years of service and preventing the need for water heater replacement as frequently. Preventive maintenance helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and costly emergency replacements and repairs. The investment in annual maintenance is minimal compared to the expenses associated with premature replacement or emergency service calls, making it a financially sound decision for homeowners who want to protect their investments and ensure a reliable hot water supply for their households.
How Often to Schedule Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance is crucial for its longevity and efficient operation, with professional inspections and maintenance recommended at least annually. During these annual service visits, a qualified technician should perform essential maintenance tasks such as flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, checking the pressure relief valve, and inspecting all connections and components for signs of wear or potential issues. However, when a home has hard water, this can speed up sediment buildup in the tank and wear and tear on the anode rod, which may require maintenance more often.
The anode rod should be checked during the maintenance inspection but typically requires replacement every three to five years under normal conditions. This sacrificial component protects the tank from corrosion by attracting corrosive elements in the water. However, when a home has hard water, sediment can build up more quickly, requiring a drain and flush of the tank every six months or so, and the anode rod can deteriorate more quickly and require replacement as frequently as every two years.
About Laney’s Inc.
Laney’s Inc. has nearly 60 years of experience serving the Fargo area. They offer honest advice, competitive pricing, and friendly experts. Call them for water heater maintenance and services in Fargo, ND.
