Your water heater provides warm water for you to use for showers, cooking, cleaning, laundry, dishes, and so much more. Because it helps you accomplish so many tasks, you need it working at its best, and giving it a little extra attention goes a long way.
At Schebler Heating and Air, we know how important your water heater is to your daily life. We’ll walk you through some of the simple steps that homeowners can take to keep their water heaters working at their best.
Visual Inspection
The first step in any water heater maintenance process is to perform a visual inspection of the system. Look for any visible signs of rust, corrosion, or leaks that could be pointing to bigger issues.
Even the smallest drops of water or faintest signs of rust can tell you there’s trouble starting to brew. We recommend checking the base of the water heater to make sure there’s no pooling water or damp spots hiding underneath.
It can seem like a small step, but a thorough visual inspection can be very telling. If you notice any signs of trouble, call a trusted professional for water heater repairs.
Check the Pressure Relief Valve
Your water heater’s pressure valve is responsible for making sure pressure and temperatures stay within a certain range. It’s an important safety measure that protects your home if the tank ever builds up too much pressure.
Generally, a professional water heater technician should perform this test. They’ll begin by placing a bucket under the discharge pipe and lifting the valve’s lever to make sure it opens the way it should. A rush of water should flow out of the system and into the bucket.
If nothing comes out, it signals that the pressure relief valve is experiencing issues. Your local plumbing company should be able to recommend the best solution for your exact situation.
Flush the Tank (For Traditional Water Heaters)
Traditional water heaters are built with storage tanks that are constantly heating the water within. Over time, the tanks can become full of sediment and mineral buildup that settles at the bottom, especially if your home has hard water.
A certain amount of buildup will naturally develop over time. As the buildup grows, though, it can prevent your water heater from properly heating the water within. Flushing the hot water tank clears out that sediment so the heating element can do its job without fighting through a thick layer of minerals.
Since the process involves draining hot water and handling valves, it’s best to let a professional take care of it. They’ll shut off the power or gas, connect a hose to the drain valve, and flush the tank until the water runs clean.
Adjust Temperature Settings
The ideal temperature setting for water heaters is around 120°F. This is warm enough to help with all your daily activities and chores, without being so hot that the water becomes uncomfortable or even dangerous to your plumbing.
Over time, though, the temperature on the system’s thermostat can shift a bit, especially if the unit’s been serviced or bumped during cleaning.
Checking the thermostat setting every now and then helps make sure everything’s right where it needs to be while helping your energy bills stay in check. Take a quick look at your thermostat to make sure it’s no higher than 120°F, and adjust if needed.
Test the Anode Rod
Water heaters use anode rods to protect the tank from rust and corrosion. With time and usage, the anode rod will wear down and leave your tank unprotected.
Your plumber can remove the rod, check its condition, and replace it if necessary. Keeping your anode rod in good condition is one of the most important steps you can take in lengthening the lifespan of your water heater.
Inspect for Adequate Insulation
Insulation plays an important role in keeping the water in your tank at the right temperature. Similar to any other part of the water heater, insulation can become damaged over time and lose its effectiveness. When that happens, your equipment has to work harder to maintain heat, which can drive up your energy bills and wear out the unit faster.
Just like how an air conditioner needs good insulation in your home to maintain comfortable temperatures, your water heater relies on proper insulation to hold heat where it belongs. Take a moment to look over the insulation wrap, pipes, and any exposed areas of the tank. If you notice frayed material, gaps, or spots where the insulation looks thin or worn out, it might be time to schedule professional service.
Look for Error Codes
Did you know that your water heater can actually tell you when it’s dealing with certain issues? They communicate this to you in the form of error codes, and these codes can give you a quick clue about what might be going wrong.
Most modern water heaters have a small display panel or indicator light that flashes a specific pattern when there’s a problem. If you notice any blinking lights or codes on the screen, check your owner’s manual for what they mean.
Scheduling service early on can save you from much more costly repairs down the line; pay close attention to what your water heater is telling you, and make sure to schedule help when needed.
Need Quad Cities Water Heater Repairs? Contact Schebler Heating and Air!
Looking for a water heater repair? Need to replace your existing system with a new water heater? No matter your situation, Schebler Heating and Air is proud to provide comprehensive water heater services in the Quad Cities.
Whether you’re in Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline, Rock Island, or any of the surrounding areas, our team’s ready to help you stay comfortable. We proudly provide fast, reliable service at an affordable price. We work with all makes and models, and we’ll walk you through every step so you always know what’s going on with your appliance.
From installation and replacement to repair and maintenance, contact us today for quality workmanship that’ll keep your hot water flowing.