A water heater is the heart of a household; most family members rely on it. To maximize the life of your water heater, you’ll need to understand how it functions and follow these tips.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your water heater in working condition. Failure to take care of it could see you ending up with a hefty plumbing repair bill, or worse, a burst pipe and flood damage.
Here are some tips for maintaining your water heater:
- Clean the tank every year by using vinegar and baking soda to remove mineral buildup, which can lead to corrosion and leaks. Also, clean out sediments at least once every six months by using an enzyme cleaner especially made for this purpose.
- Keep an eye out for leaks or unusual noises coming from your unit. This is a sure sign that something needs attention before it turns into a major problem!
Replace Problematic Parts
It can be difficult to know where to start when your water heater is giving you problems. The first step is to pinpoint which part of the heater is causing problems and replace it with a better option. The following are some common water heater parts that need to be replaced:
Temperature sensor: This measures the temperature of the water entering the tank and sends that information back to the control panel so it can adjust and heat accordingly. If this sensor is damaged or faulty, it can cause problems with your heater’s function and performance.
Heating element: This is responsible for heating the water in your tank so it reaches the required temperature. If this element goes bad or stops working due to age or damage, it should be replaced immediately before it causes further damage!
Set the Thermostat to the Right Temperature
One of the most important tips is to set your thermostat to the right temperature. Water heaters are built to last for many years, but they have a lifespan. Setting your thermostat too high could mean replacing your water heater before its time.
Setting the temperature too low can also lead to premature replacement. If you’re using a lot of hot water and don’t need it that hot, adjusting the temperature helps save energy and money.
Location Is Important
The most common reason that water heaters fail is that they are not properly protected from freezing temperatures. The best place for your water heater is in an interior closet or even a utility room. If you don’t have one, you can use an insulated cover that can be purchased at any hardware store. If you live in an area where it gets below freezing, consider installing a second smaller water heater for lower-temperature uses.
Conclusion
If keeping your water heater working longer is a priority, it pays to be proactive and keep tabs on the state of your water heating system. This is especially necessary if you have been struggling to get hot water from your taps. These tips for maximizing the life of your water heater will help you do just that.
Always remember to err on the side of caution. If your heater isn’t heating properly, get it checked by a professional rather than waiting for it to get resolved automatically.
