How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater with Regular Maintenance

Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, quietly providing hot water for everything from showers to dishwashing. Like any appliance, it requires maintenance to function efficiently and last as long as possible. Regular maintenance can not only improve the performance of your water heater but also save you money on energy bills and prevent expensive repairs or premature replacement.

Here are some essential maintenance tips to help extend the life of your water heater and keep it running smoothly:

1. Flush the Tank Regularly

Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate inside your water heater’s tank, especially if you live in an area with hard water. This sediment can reduce the efficiency of the heater, causing it to work harder and consume more energy. In extreme cases, it can cause the tank to overheat or even fail.

To prevent this, it’s recommended to flush your water heater’s tank at least once a year. Flushing the tank removes the sediment and helps maintain the heater’s efficiency. The process involves turning off the power or gas supply to the heater, attaching a hose to the drain valve, and allowing the water to flow out until it runs clear.

If you’re unsure about how to flush your tank, consider hiring a professional plumber to do it for you. Regular flushing can significantly extend the lifespan of your water heater by keeping it running at peak performance.

2. Check the Temperature Setting

The temperature at which you set your water heater can impact its efficiency and longevity. Water heaters are typically set at 140°F by default, but this temperature is often higher than necessary for most households. Lowering the temperature to 120°F can reduce the wear and tear on the system, prevent overheating, and save energy.

Not only will adjusting the temperature reduce your energy bills, but it also helps protect your water heater from working harder than it needs to. For those in households with young children, 120°F is also the ideal setting to avoid scalding accidents.

3. Inspect the Anode Rod

The anode rod inside your water heater plays a crucial role in preventing corrosion. This metal rod attracts corrosive elements, which would otherwise corrode the interior of the tank. Over time, however, the anode rod can deteriorate and may need replacing. If it’s not replaced, the tank itself can rust, leading to leaks or even complete failure.

To keep your water heater in top shape, inspect the anode rod once every 1-2 years. If it’s heavily corroded or worn down, replacing it can extend the life of your water heater significantly.

4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) is a safety feature that prevents the water heater from over-pressurizing, which can lead to dangerous situations. Over time, sediment can build up around the valve, causing it to malfunction.

To ensure the valve is working correctly, test it annually by lifting the valve’s lever. If water flows out when you lift the lever and stops when you release it, the valve is functioning properly. If water continues to flow or nothing happens, the valve may need to be replaced.

5. Insulate Your Water Heater

Insulating your water heater can improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss. Insulation helps maintain the temperature of the water, meaning your heater won’t have to work as hard to keep water hot.

For electric water heaters, use a water heater blanket, which is designed to wrap around the tank and keep it insulated. If you have a gas water heater, make sure not to cover the thermostat or the burner compartment. Insulating pipes leading into and out of the heater can also help maintain water temperature.

6. Schedule Professional Inspections

While some water heater maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, it’s important to have a professional plumber inspect your system regularly. A licensed plumber can detect potential issues early and perform maintenance tasks that require expert knowledge. Having an annual inspection can catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.

Conclusion

With regular maintenance, you can significantly extend the life of your water heater, improve its efficiency, and prevent unnecessary breakdowns. Simple tasks like flushing the tank, checking the temperature setting, and replacing the anode rod can go a long way in ensuring your water heater continues to perform well for years. Don’t wait until there’s a problem—taking proactive steps now can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of dealing with a malfunctioning water heater in the future. Reach out to your trusted plumbers here at Eric’s plumbing and drain today!