Your water heater works hard every day to keep your showers hot and your dishes clean, but without proper care, it might not last as long as you’d like. The good news is that with some simple maintenance and a little know-how, you can extend the life of your water heater and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Here’s how to keep your water heater in top shape for years to come.
1. Flush the Tank Annually
Over time, sediment and minerals can build up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This build-up reduces the efficiency of your water heater and can cause it to overheat, leading to a shorter lifespan. Flushing the tank at least once a year helps remove this sediment, keeping your water heater running smoothly.
How to do it: Turn off the power or gas to your water heater, attach a garden hose to the drain valve, and drain the tank until the water runs clear. This simple task can make a big difference in your water heater’s longevity.
2. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a crucial part of your water heater that helps prevent corrosion by attracting minerals that would otherwise rust the tank. However, over time, the anode rod can corrode itself and stop doing its job.
How to do it: Every few years, have a plumber inspect the anode rod. If it’s heavily corroded, it’s time to replace it. This small, inexpensive part can add years to your water heater’s life.
3. Maintain the Temperature at 120 Degrees
Setting your water heater’s thermostat too high can not only increase your energy bills but also put unnecessary stress on the unit, leading to a shorter lifespan. Keeping the temperature at 120 degrees is hot enough for most household needs while reducing wear and tear on the heater.
How to do it: Locate the thermostat on your water heater (usually behind a panel), and adjust the temperature to 120 degrees. This simple adjustment can help your water heater last longer and save you money.
4. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Heat loss from your water heater can cause it to work harder than necessary, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Insulating the tank and the first few feet of hot water pipes helps retain heat, allowing the heater to operate more efficiently.
How to do it: Purchase a water heater insulation blanket and wrap it around the tank, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Pipe insulation is also easy to install and can be found at most hardware stores.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular professional maintenance is key to keeping your water heater in good working order. A plumber can spot potential issues before they become big problems, saving you from unexpected breakdowns and extending the life of your heater.
How to do it: Schedule an annual inspection with Aqua Knight Plumbing. Our experts will check all the critical components of your water heater, flush the tank, inspect the anode rod, and ensure everything is in optimal condition.
Conclusion: Invest a Little Time, Save a Lot of Money
A little bit of maintenance goes a long way in prolonging the life of your water heater. By following these simple tips, you can keep your water heater running efficiently and avoid the inconvenience and cost of an unexpected replacement.
If you need help with water heater maintenance, Aqua Knight Plumbing is just a call away! Whether it’s flushing the tank, inspecting the anode rod, or performing a complete system check, our friendly plumbers are here to help. Give us a call at 630-755-0583 to schedule your water heater maintenance today and keep the hot water flowing for years to come!
