Why Maintaining Your Water Heater Is So Important
When most people put together a list of spring cleaning tasks, they probably don’t put water heater maintenance anywhere near the top, if it even makes the list at all. But there are several reasons why homeowners may want to make this the first item on the list.
A lack of proper maintenance is the number one reason for water heater breakdowns and performance issues. In many cases, the unit may need to be replaced years before it is expected to, simply because it wasn’t adequately maintained. Yearly maintenance also has various other benefits and can usually be tackled in one afternoon. Homeowners should keep reading to learn why water heater maintenance might be their favorite part of spring cleaning!
Why Is Flushing a Water Heater Important?
Regularly flushing a water heater is important because it removes sediment buildup from inside the unit. Sediment buildup is caused by minerals in the water and is usually more common in areas with hard water. This buildup of sediment can cause problems for the homeowner.Firstly, it forms a barrier between the heat exchanger and the water itself. The barrier causes the burners and heating elements to work harder and longer to heat the water to the correct temperature. This can lead to inconsistent temperatures, a lack of hot water, and increased utility costs. Sediment can also deteriorate the tank's inner lining, which can lead to corrosion and leaks, likely requiring a replacement of the water heater.
Even tankless water heaters must be flushed periodically, as mineral deposits can similarly interfere with heating performance and clog up the internal pipes. A yearly or twice-yearly water heater flush can save homeowners money and headaches in the long run.
What Else Is Involved In Water Heater Maintenance?
The temperature & pressure relief valve needs to be tested to ensure it can properly vent the tank in case of overheating or overpressurization. The anode rod is a device that helps prevent tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements to it instead. It should be inspected annually and replaced around every 3-5 years.
Gas burners and exhaust vents should be cleaned, the pilot light and thermocouple should be checked for proper function, electrical components should be tested for correct wattage, and the whole unit should be inspected for evidence of leaks. Some of these tasks should only be performed by a professional to ensure safety and avoid damaging the unit.
What Are the Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance?
Some key benefits of annual water heater maintenance include preventing the need for costly repairs, extending the unit’s life expectancy, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing overall performance. These benefits can result in significant savings on utilities, avoidable repairs, and premature water heater replacement.
An apt comparison to make is that of car maintenance. Things will start to break down and perform poorly without regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine service tasks. The same goes for water heaters.
To take this analogy a step further, most folks can handle the basics of vehicle maintenance on their own, but when it comes to the more intensive jobs, it’s best to leave it to a mechanic - or in this case, a plumber. Fortunately, this only adds to the benefits as professionals can identify and resolve safety risks, address potential issues early, and optimize efficiency in ways that the untrained cannot. But whether taking the professional or DIY approach, water heater maintenance deserves the top spot on this year’s spring cleaning list.
About The Meridian Company
The Meridian Company is a family-owned, local business that has served its neighbors in Lansing, East Lansing, and the surrounding areas for over 35 years. They provide full-service solutions, fast response, and superior customer service. Their highly trained technicians are available to help day or night, so call them today for water heater services in East Lansing, MI.
