We cannot deny the fact that water heaters have become part of our everyday lives. It is considered to be one of the most important parts of our homes as it is used for almost everything — From showering, doing laundry, washing dishes and more. This is why it’s vital to maintain it.

When your water heater fails, you will notice it immediately. It will stop providing you an adequate amount of hot water, your clothes will start looking shabby, your dishes are not as sparkly as they once were, and your showers may feel uncomfortable.

Like other household appliances, maintaining your water heater can extend its life. With how vital it is to your home, it is critical to make it a point to ensure that they are properly maintained. Knowing how to identify the warning signs and distinguishing what to do when your water heater is not making the grade is the first step towards proper maintenance. By learning how to do simple maintenance on your water heater, you can prolong its lifespan and keep it working evenly all year long. Here are some tips on maintaining your water heater.

Flush the System

One of the easiest ways to maintain your water heater is to perform a regular flush. Flushing clears out all of the sediments and mineral build up in your water heater tank. As your water heater gets older, sediments build up at the bottom of the tank, resulting in a reduction in the efficiency of your water heater. Remember, before you do the flushing, the whole system must be turned completely off and the water tank must be full. If you are not confident of your capabilities, however, you could also contact a local plumber to help you with the process.

Check the water temperature

In most cases, water heaters are set by default to be over 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Typically plumbers recommend a temperature setting of about 115-120 degrees since this will help to reduce the chances of your water heater overheating, as well as saving you up to 5% of your energy bill.

Take a look at the temperature setting on your water heater. If it is set at an extremely high temperature, consider turning it down. This will prevent your water heater from burning out and could help it to last even longer.

Test the Valve

Both gas and electric water heaters have a safety device called a “temperature and pressure relief valve.” If too much pressure builds up in the tank, the relief valve opens and releases the pressure. — This will prevent damage to your tank. Open the valve, to allow the tank to release some water. If the valve stops, you will then know that it is in good working condition. However, if it doesn’t you will need to replace it.

Also, locate the pressure relief valve and lift it halfway. It should automatically lock back to its original position. You should also hear some noise, as water is released back down the drain tube. If this valve does not work then you know you will also have to start looking for a replacement.

Paying attention to these three major tips can prolong the life of your water heater and give you peace-of-mind knowing that you will never have to suffer that rude arousal of a cold shower.

If you want assistance or you just notice a problem with your water heater, contact the experts at Caccia Plumbing today! Our fully licensed plumbers can service, repair, or upgrade your water heater to best fit your needs.

Call us today at (650) 442-1470 or contact us online. For more plumbing tips, visit our blog page or click here!