Tank Water Heater Maintenance Checklist
A water heater is a basic, year-round necessity for every household.
A water heater is a basic, year-round necessity for every household. So, it must stay in top shape and function correctly to ensure that the home never runs out of hot water required to complete everyday tasks like cleaning clothes, showering, and washing dishes. However, the water heater often remains an overlooked appliance in various homes. Several homeowners neglect routine maintenance, resulting in inefficient performance and premature failure.
Regular tank water heater maintenance is the only way to avoid sudden and unexpected breakdowns, ensure proper functioning, and help the unit last as long as possible. Here are a few water heater maintenance tips to extend its lifespan and ensure safe and efficient operation:
Perform a regular visual inspection
A simple way to avoid unexpected water heater disasters is to examine the unit from time to time for any visible issues. Check the tank, pipes, joints, and other water heater parts for leakage, rust, cracks, discolored water, loose screws, foul odors, or odd noises. Call a professional plumber for repairs if there are any signs of a problem with the water heater.
Flush the heater to remove sediment
It is customary for water heater tanks to accumulate a significant amount of sediment at the bottom, which, if not cleared, impacts the heater’s performance, lowers its lifespan, and increases heating costs. Experts recommend flushing the tank once a year and twice if the home receives hard water. Draining the tank to remove sediments is one of the most essential water heater maintenance tasks. In addition, consider installing a water softener and water filtration system to remove contaminants from the water and reduce sediment build-up.
Inspect the anode rod
Another essential water heater maintenance tip is to check the anode rod located inside the water heater tank. Anode rod has a steel core with zinc, aluminum, magnesium coating, or similar metal. The primary purpose of the anode rod is to protect the water heater tank lining from corrosion by attracting the corrosive elements. When the anode rod fails to do its job effectively, the water heater tank lining will corrode faster, and the water heater will require replacement. An anode rod requires replacement every three to five years. Check the anode rod to determine its condition and need for replacement.
Check the temperature and pressure relief valve
One of the most crucial elements of water heater maintenance is checking the pressure relief valve. It is a safety feature that prevents an explosion when the temperature or pressure inside the tank exceeds the safe level. The valve opens and releases the excess temperature and pressure. Test the temperature and pressure relief valve for correct functioning. A plumber can install a new valve if the existing one is faulty.
Consider insulation
Insulating the pipes and water heater reduces the standby heat loss, prevents condensation, reduces wear and tear, and lowers the water heating cost. Wrap an insulation blanket around the water heater and get pipe insulation matching the pipe’s diameter.
Protect the water heater
Regular water heater maintenance is more cost-effective than premature water heater replacement. It helps spot problems before they worsen and avoids a potential plumbing emergency. Hire a professional plumbing company to inspect and maintain the tank water heater. Experienced plumbers can perform a thorough check and take corrective actions to prevent water damage and increase the heater’s lifespan.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
