Friday, July 19, 2013

Hot Water Heater Maintenance Tips

By Brian Winters


Proper water heater maintenance will allow you to use your heating system for a long period of time. Doing this regularly can help you avoid costly water heater repairs. Read on to know more tips on how to keep your tank in good condition.

A water heater tank is usually made of heavy steel that comes together with several heating elements. The thermostat is responsible for regulating these elements for proper hot water temperature. However, it is but normal for a heater to stop producing warm water once it reaches the end of its lifespan. At this point, start looking for a replacement unit for your convenience.

Rust and corrosion developing inside the tank can lessen the heating efficiency of your water heater. Look for rust stains all over your tank and replace badly damaged pipes to prevent water from contaminating. Neglecting to address the problem at once can cause you to buy a water heater out of the blue. Tighten all pipe fittings and valve to minimize and stop water heater leaks. However, do not over tighten the connections to avoid damage.

Draining and flushing the water heater can protect the internal tank from corroding since the sediments inside are removed regularly. Water can easily discolor and smell bad if you don't flush the hard water minerals inside. However, if the sediments get too heavy for the tank to handle, you might have to replace the entire unit to solve the problem.

If your water heater has a high water pressure, check the gauge on top to know the water pressure. Pressure should always be below 80 psi to avoid further damage. If you are not sure how to fix this problem, do not hesitate to call a professional. Attempting to repair the tank on your own can put your life at risk since a water heater can overheat or blow up.

Install a water heater with a high heating capacity if you use hot water often in your household. To sustain the efficiency of your current unit, drain and flush your tank every six months. Not only it removes sediments inside the tank, but it improves the water quality at the same time. Doing this regularly can help the water heater to operate smoothly, eventually adding years to it in the long run.

Fight against rust and corrosion by checking the state of your anode rod every 2-3 years. This rod attracts charged water molecules like a magnet to protect the internal components and tank lining from rusting away. You may have to drain the heater to be able to inspect the rod thoroughly. Once it measures less than of an inch, replace it immediately. Using a water heater with a deteriorated anode rod can cause your tank to consume more energy than it used to.

Do not let the situation escalate by asking professional help as soon as possible. This will ensure that your water heater is handled by trained specialists to solve the problem immediately. Start maintaining your water heater if you don't have plans of buying a replacement anytime soon.




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