Don’t Forget About Water Heater Maintenance

Neglecting a Water Heater Can Have Disastrous Results

Maintaining a water heater is essential for reliable access to hot water in a home. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect this vital task and end up paying the price with disastrous results. Failing to perform regular maintenance on the water heater can lead to several problems, such as leaks and tank corrosion. 

Leaks can cause water damage to the home and spike water bills if left unchecked. Corrosion of the tank means that it won’t last as long, causing it to have to be replaced sooner than expected. Additionally, energy efficiency will suffer if maintenance is ignored, raising energy bills. Homeowners should not wait until something goes wrong to take care of their home’s water heater. This article will explain some of what goes into maintaining the water heater and why it’s vital.

The Importance of Flushing a Water Heater 

Draining and flushing the water heater is vital to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Over time, sediment and minerals can build up inside the tank, leading to several potential problems. This buildup reduces the space in the tank for hot water, resulting in less hot water available when needed. 

In addition, this sediment causes a decrease in the water heater’s efficiency in heating the water, resulting in higher energy bills. Finally, sediment buildup can cause corrosion of the tank and other components inside the unit, leading to additional damage or failure of the system. Flushing out a water heater at least once a year is important to keep it running efficiently and avoid future issues. 

Replacing the Anode Rod and Other Maintenance Tasks

Other crucial tasks besides flushing the tank must also be done during water heater maintenance to keep it working dependably. Things that should be done during maintenance visits include: 

• Check and Replace the Anode Rod: An anode rod protects the steel lining of the tank from corrosion by drawing corrosive elements away from it. The anode rod should be checked during maintenance and replaced every few years as needed.
• Test the Pressure Relief Valve: The pressure relief valve is a crucial safety component that helps prevent the tank from over-pressurizing and exploding. This valve should be checked during maintenance to ensure it works properly. If it isn’t working or there is rust or corrosion, it should be replaced immediately.
• Inspect the Unit for Any Issues: During maintenance, plumbers will inspect the water heater for any signs of problems such as corrosion, leaks, faulty electrical connections, etc. If any issues are found, they must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.

Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance of a water heater can provide many benefits for homeowners. One of the most important is that it helps to extend the lifespan of the hot water system. By regularly having their water heater inspected and serviced, homeowners can help prevent future breakdowns or serious problems from occurring. This can save both time and money in the long run due to avoiding costly repairs and unnecessary water heater replacement.

Routine maintenance also helps ensure that the water heater runs as efficiently as possible. This can reduce energy costs and also provide households with an ample supply of hot water when needed. Additionally, maintaining a water heater helps keep homeowners and their families safe by ensuring all components function correctly.

About Water Heaters Only, Inc.

Water Heaters Only, Inc. is a family-owned company with over five decades of experience serving Phoenix and the surrounding areas. They provide same-day service, flat rate pricing, and no extra charges for emergency repairs. Call them today for water heater maintenance in Phoenix, AZ. 

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