Is Maintaining Your Water Heater Really That Important?
Like many major appliances, a water heater needs regular maintenance to maintain efficiency. An inefficient water heater won’t keep the hot water flowing for long! Also, several manufacturers require the system to be flushed and inspected at least once a year to keep the warranty valid.
Checking the water heater once a year does more than just make sure there is always hot water. Regular maintenance extends the water heater's life and prevents unexpected damage from leaking or failing parts.
What to Expect During Water Heater Maintenance
Before scheduling water heater maintenance, homeowners should know what to expect. This routine service includes flushing the unit, testing the thermostat and valves, checking and replacing the anode rod as needed, and looking for leaks or rust. Never omit the flush, which is the most crucial part of water heater maintenance. Scaling may occur inside the water heater because of silt accumulation. This can lead to leaks, corrosion, and sluggish water heating. The accumulation could ultimately lead to an early failure of the water heater.
An annual flush aids in clearing the accumulated silt and limescale. A licensed plumber will shut off the unit's electricity, empty the tank, and then run hot water through it with the drain valve open to remove any sediment. Once the water heater's sediment has been removed, the plumber will check all valves and the anode rod once the tank has been filled again. Despite the seemingly straightforward procedure, this water heater service is best left to a licensed plumber.
Advantages of Regularly Scheduled Water Heater Maintenance
Homeowners must prioritize water heater maintenance because the hot water supply and plumbing system rely heavily on the appliance's proper operation. Water heater maintenance is not always a top concern, but there are several reasons why it should be.
Longer Lifespan
Corrosion and leaks may result from silt and limescale remaining within the tank. The unit might need to be replaced because the damage isn't always fixable. Annually flushing the water heater to remove this build-up gives the appliance a longer lifespan.
Improve Energy Efficiency
One problem that often happens when minerals build up in the water heater is that it uses more energy. This is because the unit isn't working as well as it should be. It typically warms water more slowly than it should. Flushing the storage tank keeps the system working as it should, which improves energy efficiency.
Lower Heating Costs
Flushing the water heater helps ensure it works right, making it more efficient and lowering the energy it uses. Utility bills can also be lowered as the water doesn’t need to run as long before it comes out hot.
Fewer Issues and Repairs
Professional maintenance checkups can help you determine what repairs must be done early. It's very important to plan for any water heater repair and to take care of it promptly. This can help keep the system from breaking down and the need for a water heater replacement.
How Often Does Water Heater Maintenance Need to Be Performed
Water heater maintenance should be performed once a year. However, there are some exceptions. Professionals recommend scheduling maintenance every six months for people who live in areas known for hard water. This is because sediment and other minerals build up faster in those areas, so the system must be flushed more often for optimal performance.
About Quahog Plumbing
With same-day and 24/7 emergency services, Quahog Plumbing strives to keep plumbing systems and equipment in great shape. With over 15 years of experience, their trained technicians use the best tools and the latest technology to tackle jobs. Call today for fast and friendly water heater maintenance services with straightforward pricing in Somerset, MA!
