Your water heater does a lot of work around the house. It provides hot water for your appliances and heats the water for those relaxing showers and tub baths. Performing routine maintenance on your water heater will help it operate properly and save you money in the long run. Read more on what you can do to keep your water heater running efficiently.
Keep it Flushed
The idea of flushing your water heater may seem labor intensive, but it only requires a few supplies and little knowledge. The water that is pumped into your water heater contains a lot of sediment, dirt and minerals. Over time, these particles can settle on the bottom of your water heater and collect on the walls of your tank; resulting in clogged lines and rust. Clogged lines will cause your heater to overwork itself and limit its effectiveness.
In order to drain the tank, you will need a water hose and a bucket. Attach the hose to the outlet located on the heater and use the valve to release the water. Run the other end of the hose into the bucket or have the water flow outside of the home. It is recommended that you flush the tank at least once a year.
Add Insulation
If your water heater feels warm to the touch then it may need additional insulation. An insulation blanket can be added to wrap your electric water heater to help reduce heat loss and increase energy savings. The blanket is a large piece of insulation, usually made of fiberglass with a plastic sheet on the back. An insulation blanket costs around $20 to $25 and can be purchased at most home improvement stores. The added insulation can reduce heat loss up to about 45% and is beneficial in areas subjected to the cold such as the garage. Do not add the insulation blanket if you have a gas heater because it has an exhaust on the top that needs to remain clear. If you are unsure if you need to add one or not, contact ASAP Plumbing and let the professionals help answer any questions you may have.
Replacing the Anode Rod
An anode rod is a metal rod that runs from the top of the tank on the water heater, down into the water inside the tank. It attracts those pesky particulates that bond to the wall of the tank and cause many issues such as rust. Check your owner’s manual for the actual location of the anode rod. While most are visible from the top of the tank (it looks like a hexagon), some may be hidden under panels on the tank. You can get these at most home improvement stores starting around $20.
Give your home’s water heater the care it needs to maintain its longevity. Following these maintenance tips will ensure your water heater will work properly and efficiently for years to come.
If your water heater is in need of maintenance or if you have questions regarding your water heater, contact ASAP Plumbing today at 228-865-2727 or visit www.plumbinggulfportms.com and request a free estimate! We can handle all your plumbing needs including installation, repair and full water heater replacement.
