5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Heater Running Efficiently 1

Check the T&P Valve

The temperature and pressure (T&P) valve in your water heater releases excess pressure and heat. This valve is a safety feature that is critical to the proper functioning of your water heater. You should regularly check the T&P valve to ensure it is working correctly. A faulty T&P valve can cause overheating and damage to the water heater or even cause an explosion.

Test the T&P valve by lifting the valve’s lever and letting it snap back. You should hear a gurgling sound. If you do not hear any sound, or water continues to run after releasing the valve, the valve is faulty and needs to be replaced by a professional.

Determine the Age of Your Water Heater

Most water heaters have a life span of 8 to 10 years. After this time, they may not function efficiently and require costly repairs. Knowing the age of your water heater can help you determine when you need to replace it before it breaks down. To determine the age of your water heater, check the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker. The serial number typically contains the manufacture date.

Drain the Tank and Flush the System

Draining and flushing your water heater will remove sediment that can accumulate at the bottom of the tank. Over time, sediment can build up and cause damage to the system or reduce its efficiency. To perform this maintenance, follow these steps:

5 Water Heater Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Heater Running Efficiently 2

  • Turn off the heater and shut off the water supply to the tank.
  • Connect a garden hose to the tank’s drain valve.
  • Open the drain valve and let the water flow out of the tank until it runs clear.
  • Close the drain valve and open a hot water faucet.
  • Turn on the water supply and let the tank fill completely.
  • Once the water runs from the faucet without sputtering, turn the faucet off.
  • Turn on the heater and let the water heat up before using any hot water in the house.
  • Insulate the Water Heater

    Insulating the water heater can help prevent heat loss. Heat loss can cause the heater to work harder, increasing energy consumption and raising your electricity bill. The insulating blanket needs to completely cover your water heater. Confirm you are purchasing the right size blanket for your water heater.

    Check the Anode Rod

    The anode rod is a metal rod that hangs in the tank and is used to protect the water heater from corrosion. Once the rod deteriorates, it needs to be replaced. Performing this maintenance is easy:

  • Turn off the heater and shut the water supply off.
  • Locate the anode rod and remove it from the tank.
  • If it is corroded or less than ½ inch thick, replace it.
  • Install the new rod and turn on the water supply to refill the tank.
  • Turn on the heater and let it heat up completely before using any hot water.
  • By following these five water heater maintenance tips, your water heater will function efficiently and will last longer. Regular maintenance can also prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future. If you are unsure about any of these maintenance tasks or are having trouble with your water heater, consider contacting a professional plumber for assistance. Gain additional knowledge about the topic in this external source we’ve compiled for you. https://www.waterheatersdenvercolorado.com/water-heater-repair-denver.

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