Taking care of your water heater is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts for years. Regular maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your water heater running smoothly. Here are some practical water heater maintenance tips that are easy to follow and will help you maintain your hot water heater effortlessly.

Water Heater Maintenance Tips

• Regular Inspection: Having your water heater regularly inspected by a professional is crucial. These inspections help catch minor issues before they turn into major repairs. A professional inspection also ensures that your water heater is operating as efficiently as possible, saving you both time and money in the long run.
• Flush the Tank Yearly: Flush your water heater tank annually helps remove sediment that can accumulate at the bottom. This sediment can cause your water heater to operate less efficiently and may even lead to corrosion. To flush your tank, turn off the power or gas, attach a hose to the drain valve, and let the water drain out until it runs clear. This process helps keep your water heater clean and efficient.
• Insulate the Tank: Adding insulation to your water heater tank can help retain heat and reduce energy costs. This simple step not only helps maintain the water temperature but also lessens the strain on your water heater, potentially extending its lifespan.
• Lower Temperature: Setting your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save energy and extend the life of your heater. Lowering the temperature also helps prevent scalding, which is especially important if you have young children or elderly family members in your home.
• Test the Temperature Pressure Relief Valve: The temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve is a safety feature designed to release pressure if the water in the tank gets too hot. Test this valve monthly by lifting the lever and letting some water out. If water doesn’t come out or flows out continuously, the valve needs to be replaced. If water comes out and stops after you lower the lever, the TPR valve is working properly.
• Replace the Anode Rod: The anode rod helps prevent corrosion inside your water heater’s tank by attracting corrosive elements. Check this rod every few years and replace it if it’s more than half corroded. Replacing the anode rod when necessary can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater.
• Insulate Pipes: In addition to insulating your water heater tank, consider insulating the pipes that lead to and from the unit. This helps keep the water hot as it travels through the pipes and reduces energy costs. Insulated pipes are also less likely to freeze during the winter, preventing potential damage to your home.

When to Call a Professional for Water Heater Maintenance

While some maintenance tasks can be done on your own, it’s always a good idea to have your water heater serviced by a professional periodically. They can identify issues you might not notice and ensure your unit is operating efficiently. Here are some signs that indicate you should call a professional:

• Water Won’t Stay at the Right Temperature: If the water temperature fluctuates without any adjustments, there might be a problem with your water heater. Mineral deposits can damage the heating element or other components, which requires professional attention.
• Lukewarm Water: If your water heater only produces lukewarm water, check its settings. If everything seems correct, a malfunctioning burner, pilot light, or heating element might be the cause, and a professional should inspect it.
• No Hot Water: If there’s no hot water, ensure the unit has fuel (for gas heaters) or power (for electric heaters). If everything seems fine and you still have no hot water, a professional can diagnose and fix the problem.
• Changes in Water Quality: Rust-colored water, cloudy water, or water with a metallic taste or rotten-egg odor are signs of a deteriorating water heater. These issues require professional repair.
• Water Near the Heater: Leaks around the water heater indicate substantial damage. A professional can determine the cause and prevent further damage to your home.
• Noisy Water Heater: Unusual noises like banging, popping, or cracking can indicate sediment buildup or other issues. A professional can flush, repair, or replace the unit as needed.
• Low Hot Water Pressure: Mineral deposits and blockages can reduce water pressure. If you notice a drop in pressure, a professional can address the issue.

Taking these steps and knowing when to call a professional will help keep your water heater running efficiently for many years. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can prevent major problems and extend the life of your unit in Washington.