Your water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and more. Regular maintenance can extend its lifespan and ensure it runs efficiently, saving you money on repairs and energy costs. In this guide, Frost & Kretsch Plumbing shares some valuable water heater maintenance tips to help you keep your system in top shape.
1. Flush the Tank Annually
Over time, sediment builds up in the bottom of your water heater tank, which can reduce efficiency and cause damage. Flushing your water heater once a year helps remove these deposits and improves the system’s performance. To flush the tank:
- Turn off the power supply (for electric heaters) or the gas supply (for gas heaters).
- Attach a hose to the drain valve and let the water flow into a bucket or drain.
- After draining, close the valve and refill the tank.
If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, Frost & Kretsch Plumbing can handle the job for you. Proper flushing helps extend the lifespan of your heater and ensures it heats water more effectively.
2. Check the Temperature Setting
Keeping your water heater set at the right temperature is key for both efficiency and safety. Most manufacturers recommend a temperature setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to provide plenty of warm water while also preventing scalding and reducing energy costs. Lowering the temperature slightly can also reduce wear and tear on your water heater, helping it last longer.
3. Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a crucial component that helps prevent rust inside your water heater tank. Over time, this rod corrodes and should be replaced every few years. To check the anode rod:
- Turn off the power or gas to your water heater.
- Drain a few gallons of water from the tank.
- Remove the anode rod (usually located at the top of the tank) and inspect it for corrosion.
If the rod is heavily corroded, it’s time for a replacement. A new anode rod can significantly extend the life of your water heater by protecting it from rust and corrosion.
4. Insulate the Heater and Pipes
If your water heater and pipes aren’t insulated, you may be losing heat and wasting energy. Adding insulation to your water heater tank and the first few feet of piping can help retain heat, reduce energy consumption, and improve efficiency. Insulating the water heater is a simple task, but you can also call in a professional if you’re unsure how to do it safely.
5. Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
Even with regular maintenance, it’s important to have your water heater inspected by a professional plumber at least once a year. A licensed technician can spot potential issues before they become costly repairs and ensure your system is running efficiently. Frost & Kretsch Plumbing offers comprehensive water heater maintenance services to keep your unit in excellent condition.
Trust Frost & Kretsch Plumbing for Your Water Heater Needs
For professional water heater maintenance and repair, trust the experts at Frost & Kretsch Plumbing. Our skilled team can help you extend the lifespan of your water heater and ensure it’s operating efficiently year-round. Don’t wait until you have a problem—give us a call today!
Contact us at (586) 675 – 0097 or visit our website at https://fkplumbing.com/ for more information. We’re located at 47212 Jefferson Ave, New Baltimore Mi 48047, and we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs.
By following these maintenance tips, you can improve the efficiency of your water heater and avoid costly breakdowns in the future. With the right care and regular professional attention, your water heater will serve you reliably for many years.
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