Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Is Water Heater Maintenance Needed?

By Brian Winters


A water heater with a high heating efficiency doesn't come cheap. That is why it is important to maintain it regularly to prolong its lifespan for a couple of years, especially if you still don't have enough budget in buying one. Checking the heater on a semi-annual basis helps sustain the heater's efficiency. You can always ask help from a specialist if you don't have the time to check your unit on your own.

Drain your water heater right before the water starts smelling bad or discolor. This is a common problem for units that are filled with hard water minerals for quite some time. It is very easy for the internal tank to get rusty once the sediments inside get too heavy. You may have a deteriorated anode rod if the water quality doesn't improve.

The anode rod is responsible for attracting all charged water molecules inside the tank, protecting it from further damage. Keep the anode rod in its good condition by inspecting it regularly. Once it measures less than of an inch, replace it immediately. This is important to prevent sediments from building up.

To protect your tank from overheating, adjust the temperature between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting the temperature too low can let the bacteria stay inside the tank while setting it too high can cause the relieve valve to open more often. Rust stains can develop if water continues to leak from the T&P valve.

Replace the heating element gasket as soon as the unit stops producing hot water. Call a specialist to ensure proper gasket installation. This is important to avoid taking unwanted cold showers for a day or two.

Check the relief valve for signs of leaks. This valve should be maintained at all times since it releases excessive pressure inside the tank. Test it by lifting the handle while allowing it to snap back on its own. Water should stop draining as soon as the valve is closed. If not, replace the relief valve right away.

Flush and drain your water heater to fight against rust and corrosion. Draining minimizes the sediment build up, improves water quality and heating efficiency all at the same time. Be careful of hot water leaks since these can give you scalding burns.

Proper care and maintenance includes having the right tools and knowledge in dealing with water heater. Do not put your life on the line by attempting to do it on your own. If you do, always make sure to take safety precautions to avoid unfortunate accidents.




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