Table of Contents
Top 5 maintenance tips for water heaters to keep running efficiently
A typical water heater is expected to last between 15 – 20 years, provided that it is adequately maintained. By taking care of your water heater, you can not only prolong its life but also keep it working efficiently. Learn below about the top maintenance tips for water heaters.
Insulate Pipes and The Water Heater
- Most modern water heaters have pre-installed thermal insulation. Not only the main water tank but also the pipes are fitted with insulation, which according to one estimate can reduce heat loss by up to 50%. Reduction in heat loss results in minimizing water heating costs and consequently a lower energy bill.
If you have an old water heater, it is in your best interest to install thermal insulation. You can buy thermal insulation from any hardware store and complete it as a DIY project. Turn off the water heater and wear protective gloves before starting work. Properly cover all sides of the pipes and the water tank with a thermal insulation sheet. Now when you turn on the water heater, you’ll notice that it spends less time heating water because the water temperature is maintained longer.
Clean Sediment From The Water Heater
- Over time, water heater tanks can accumulate sediment which can make the heating elements work harder. This sediment is a normal side-effect of using a water heater, especially if your water mains supply is hard water.
To clean the sediment, first, turn off the water heater. Now take a hose and a bucket. Connect the hose to the drain valve and begin emptying the water tank. If you notice any debris or sediment then drain the entire water tank. Now fill it up with water again and repeat this step. Once you are sure all the sediment has been drained, you can disconnect the hose and turn on the water heater for normal use.
Use A Heat Trap
- Modern water heaters have heat traps built-in as a standard. A heat trap allows cold water to flow into the water heater but prevents the hot water from flowing back. If you are using an older model, you can install a heat trap by yourself.
There are several heat traps available online and can be fitted rather easily. If you are unsure, you can always hire a professional plumbing company to do it for you.
Set An Optimum Temperature
The default temperature set by manufacturers is 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Many homeowners never change the temperature setting and let the water heater run at this temperature.
Many plumbing service professionals recommend setting it within the range of 115-120 degrees Fahrenheit as it is the optimum temperature for bathing and washing. By changing the temperature settings and insulating your water heater, you will notice considerable improvements in your heating energy usage and utility bill.
Hire A Professional Plumbing Service
- While the above maintenance tips are pretty straightforward and can be done by anyone as a DIY project, there are some maintenance tasks that are best left for professionals. If you follow the above maintenance tips on a regular basis, you will notice an improvement in your water heater’s efficiency as well as a lower energy bill.
Experts recommend hiring a professional service at least once a year to conduct a thorough assessment of your water heater and to conduct maintenance tasks. They have the right tools and expertise needed for making sure your water heater lasts a very long time. They will also advise you if your water heater is beyond repair and requires a replacement.
If your water heating isn’t performing up to the mark, then give us a call at 832-772-5501. We, at Proline Plumbing, are a plumbing and water heater specialist company operating in Houston Texas. Our specialists will inspect your water heater and make the necessary adjustments so that you are saved from purchasing a new water heater.
