Why is Water Heater Maintenance So Important?
It doesn’t make sense to ignore the needs of the water heater while also expecting it to deliver peak performance. All water heater manufacturers recommend annual maintenance to protect warranties and ensure longevity. Spring cleaning is a great time to focus on water heater maintenance while home maintenance is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.
Whether homeowners do their maintenance or hire a professional, they should ensure it is done every year. This article gives a quick overview of water heater maintenance and why it’s so important.
Flushing Out the Water Heater
Whether the water heater is gas or electric, running the water heater is likely the second most costly thing on the monthly utility bills. Because of the operating costs, it makes sense that homeowners take every opportunity to save money, and one of the biggest opportunities is flushing the tank.
All water has a certain amount of minerals that aren’t removed during treatment. The minerals in the tank create a build-up of sediment that causes reduced efficiency of the water heater. The reduced efficiency means that the water heater has to work harder to heat water, causing utility bills to rise. Annual flushing of the water heater removes any build-up and restores lost efficiency. Flushing the tank also helps prevent corrosion from the minerals and sediment.
More Maintenance Tips for Good Performance
- Check all the valves to make sure they don’t stick
- Check the anode rod and replace it if it shows signs of corrosion
- Check the burner for dust or soot buildup
- Open and close the safety valve, then check for leaks
- Look for signs of corrosion or rust
- Look for leaks around pipe fittings and in the drain pan
In some cases, homeowners can flush the tank and look for these things by themselves. However, hiring professional help can take the guesswork out of a job and ensure it is done properly.
Reasons to Schedule Regular Water Heater Maintenance
Since water heaters are so important for daily life, it makes sense to take care of them. Some of the benefits of regular water heater maintenance are:
- Reduced Costs: Water heater maintenance reduces costs in two ways. First, it lowers utility bills from increased efficiency, and second, it reduces the need for costly repairs.
- Comfort: A well-maintained water heater produces more hot water faster due to increased performance. It also ensures that the water heater won’t fail in the coming year.
- Longevity: Taking care of a tank ensures that it will last as long as the manufacturer claims. Most maintained tanks last well beyond the expected lifespan.
About Vetted HVAC Services
Vetted HVAC Services is the one-stop-shop for all plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical problems in Yorkton, SK. Their highly trained, the trustworthy team has over 120 years of combined experience and ensures every job is done accurately and efficiently. They also provide upfront pricing and free softener salt delivery. Call them today for water heater services in Yorkton, SK.