A water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. Hot water is essential for personal hygiene, cooking, cleaning the dishes, and a whole host of chores. When your unit stops working efficiently, it can lead to costly electric bills. Poor performance can also cause the hot water to run out too quickly. This seems to happen at the worst possible times, and no one likes being in the shower and suddenly getting a blast of cold water.
Routine maintenance can keep the unit working optimally and even extend its life. Here are a few tips for optimal water heater performance
Conduct Regular Inspections
Visually examine your water heater regularly. Look for signs of rust and leaking on the outside of the unit. You can also have a professional plumber check the unit once every year or two to make sure it’s working at peak efficiency.
Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod keeps the interior of the water heater from corroding or rusting. It even protects the unit from damage due to mineral deposits. The rod attracts all of the harmful elements to itself in order to spare the tank walls from damage. These can easily be checked and need to be replaced every few years. Read your owner’s manual for more information or call a plumber when in doubt.
Be Mindful of the Thermostat Setting
If your unit has a visible thermostat, be sure to set it to an ideal temperature. Check your owner’s manual for information specific to your unit. The CDC recommends a temperature of at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent bacteria growth in the tank. However, the temperature should not exceed 130 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid the risk of scalding.
Flush the Tank
Have a professional plumber flush your tank once a year. This can prevent sediment from building up in the tank. Sediment build-up can cause the unit to work less efficiently. This means it will take more power to heat your water to its ideal temperature. It can also cause corrosion and shorten the life of the unit. This process is essential for maintaining an efficient water heater.
Know When to Contact a Professional Plumber
Sometimes it pays to simply call a professional plumber. There are a number of potential hazards that come with working on a hot water heater. All serious repairs should be left to the pros. An inexperienced person can also end up making a situation worse. This may cost you more in the long run.
If you live in southern Maryland or the D.C. area, you can always contact A Better Plumber in Waldorf, MD for water heater repairs and maintenance.
