The Complete Guide to Water Heater Maintenance: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your System

Tankless vs. Traditional: How Water Heaters Work and Which Is Right for You

Water heaters are unsung heroes in our homes, quietly delivering hot water for showers, dishes and laundry day after day. However, like all hardworking appliances, they need a little TLC to keep running smoothly. Regular water heater maintenance is the key to extending its lifespan and ensuring it provides reliable hot water when you need it most. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through essential maintenance tasks that any homeowner can handle and explain when it's time to call in the professionals at ASAP Plumbing.

Flushing Your Water Heater

Over time, sediment and minerals can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment not only takes up valuable space but also reduces the unit's efficiency. Flushing your water heater is a simple yet highly effective maintenance task that can help resolve this issue.

1. Turn Off the Power: For electric water heaters, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas water heaters, set the thermostat to "Pilot."
2. Shut Off the Cold Water Supply: Locate the cold water shut-off valve, usually located above the water heater. Turn it off to stop the flow of water into the tank.
3. Attach a Hose: Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Place the other end of the hose in a safe drainage area, like a floor drain or outside.
4. Open the Pressure Relief Valve: To allow air into the tank and enable proper draining, open the pressure relief valve on top of the water heater.
5. Drain the Tank: Open the drain valve on the bottom of the tank and let the water flow out. Be cautious, as the water may be scalding hot.
6. Flush the Tank:Turn the cold water supply back on and let it run into the tank while the old water drains out. Continue flushing until the water runs clear.
7. Complete the Process: Close the drain valve, turn off the pressure relief valve and turn the cold water supply back on. Finally, restore power to the unit.

The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature of your water heater. It prevents excessive pressure from building up in the tank. To ensure it's working correctly, follow these steps:

1. Turn Off the Power: For electric water heaters, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. For gas water heaters, set the thermostat to "Pilot."
2. Locate the Valve: The pressure relief valve is usually located on top of the water heater. It has a lever or a small handle.
3. Test the Valve: Lift or flip the valve's handle briefly to allow a little water to escape. You should hear a rush of air or see water flow into the drainpipe.
4. Release the Handle: After testing, release the handle. It should snap back into place and stop the flow of water.

Regularly inspect your water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion. Look for any water pooling around the base of the unit or signs of rust on the tank or pipes. If you notice any issues, contact ASAP Plumbing for a professional inspection and repair.

While these DIY maintenance tasks are essential, it's equally important to schedule professional water heater maintenance annually. ASAP Plumbing's experts can perform a thorough inspection, clean components and address any potential issues. Professional maintenance ensures that your water heater operates efficiently, saves you money on energy bills and provides you with reliable hot water year-round.

In conclusion, proper water heater maintenance is vital for extending its lifespan and avoiding costly repairs or replacements. By following these maintenance tips and relying on the expertise of ASAP Plumbing, you can enjoy efficient and dependable hot water in your home for years to come.