Are You Ready for the New Year? Important Water Heater Chores
One way to start a productive new year is dedicating some time to home maintenance. It’s also easier to keep track of household chores when following a schedule. Since the home’s plumbing comes with essential features to maintain warmth and running water, the beginning of the year is a great time to mark off some tasks to keep your home plumbing running optimally. Here are our top water heater chores to check off this new year:
Check for leaks
A visual inspection of the water heater to search for small leaks or pooling water will let you know if you need a repair. Leaks often arise from tank corrosion, an aging unit, or loose fittings. Inspect the water heater for loose screws or bolts and tighten anything that seems unfastened. If a few quick turns of the wrench doesn’t stop the unit from leaking, contact a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the leak.
Flush the water heater
Flushing the water heater at least once a year will help the system work better for more extended periods. As the water heater gets used, minerals pool at the bottom of the tank. This accumulation tends to cause much distress on the heater if neglected. Flushing a water heater is not for everyone, so schedule a water heater flush appointment with a plumbing company if you feel uncomfortable performing the task.
Check the pressure relief valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve safely moderate the pressure and heat within a water heater. All gas water heaters have a T&P valve, while only some electric water heaters do. The tank can explode if something restricts the valve, like sediment or scale buildup within the unit. It is not a common occurrence, but understanding the importance of a properly functioning relief valve is vital for water heater maintenance.
Swap out the anode rod
If you have not changed out the sacrificial anode rod in your water heater in more than three years, it is time to do it now. This rod runs through the water heater attracting sediment to itself and away from the rest of the tank. Since the anode rod consists of aluminum, magnesium, or zinc alloy, it “sacrifices” itself through an oxidation process instead of the water heater. By design, the anode rod corrodes, leaving the tank in good condition. If you replace the anode rod within three to five years, or sometimes less, the rod will deteriorate, preserving the water heater from corrosion and rust.
Maintain your water heater
When a water heater fails, it costs your household more money. Getting ahead of costly repairs or expensive utility bills will save time and headaches as you start the new year. Consider investing in a full-service water heater flush and plumbing inspection each year. This maintenance will ensure that your unit lives out its lifespan and does not create unnecessary problems for your home plumbing.
With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix Arizona and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company with thirty-five years of experience in plumbing. From a simple leak to a complete plumbing renovation, we strive to be reliable, honest, professional and all of our work is guaranteed. Call 602-883-2787 today!
