Water heaters offer the convenience and comfort of having hot water readily available at all times. However, like any other appliance in your home, they require proper care and maintenance to prevent costly repairs or replacement.
Some issues, such as explosions or fires, are life-threatening. By following these simple tips, you’ll avoid a water heater disaster:
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Here Are Seven Prime Ways To Avoid A Water Heater Disaster:
1. Never Ignore Issues
Water heater issues such as unfamiliar noises, leaks, or decreased hot water production are warning signs of something wrong. If you notice any of these problems, don’t ignore them.
Call plumbing repair experts to have a look as soon as possible. Other minor issues, such as sediment buildup, can be fixed with a simple flush. However, if you wait too long, the problem could worsen.
2. Know the Age of Your Water Heater
The average lifespan of a water heater is 8 to 12 years. If your unit is getting older, it’s more likely to experience problems. Have a professional inspect it regularly to catch any issues before they become significant.
Replace the heater before it completely breaks down to avoid being left without hot water. Go for a system that adequately meets your household’s needs, such as a tankless water heater. An energy-efficient model will help you save on utility bills.
3. Don’t Overlook Maintenance
Flushing your water heater regularly is one of the most critical maintenance tasks. This simple task removes sediment from the bottom of the tank that causes problems such as decreased hot water production and shortened lifespan. Most manufacturers recommend flushing once per year.
If you have hard water, flush more often. Other tasks include checking the anode rod and keeping the area around the unit clear of debris. Remember to shut off the power before performing any maintenance tasks.
4. Check the Temperature
If your water heater is set too high, it could be a safety hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends setting temperatures no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding. Doing this will also save on utility bills. Adjust the temperature by finding the thermostat on the unit and turning it to the desired setting.
5. Be Careful About What You Store Nearby
Don’t store flammable liquids like gasoline or propane near your water heater. If there’s a gas leak, it could cause an explosion. Also, keep the area around the unit clear of clutter to prevent accidental fires. If you have a gas water heater, ensure proper ventilation.
6. Check Whether There’s Rusting
Water heater rusting is due to the corrosion of the metal tank. It’s often caused by hard water or a build-up of sediment in the tank. Extensive rusting leads to leaks. Eventually, the tank will need replacement. To prevent this, flush the water heater regularly and have it inspected by a professional every few years. Also, install a water softener if you have hard water.
7. Inspect The Sacrificial Anode Rod
The sacrificial anode rod protects the water heater tank from corrosion. Over time, the anode rod will rust, requiring a replacement. Replacing is a simple task that you can do yourself. Simply remove the old anode rod and screw in a new one. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Know When to Call a Professional
While you can do some simple maintenance tasks yourself, a professional should handle more complex issues such as leaks or strange noises. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Take time to learn how the unit works and what kind of maintenance it needs. You’ll catch problems early on, preventing disasters.
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