A traditional water heater lasts about 10-13 years while a tankless water heater can last for 20 years or more. Regardless of the type of water heater you have, it’s important to stay up-to-date on maintenance needs and recommendations. Below, we go over water heater maintenance tips you shouldn’t ignore.
Flush Your Water Heater
A water heater should be flushed at least once a year. A “flushing” refers to the removal of water to remove excess minerals and dirt. Taking this step helps reduce wear and tear on the water heater’s internal parts, including the tank.
Check Your Valves
A water heater has a valve that helps relieve pressure. Be sure the valve isn’t leaking or sticking by turning it to the on position to relieve a bit of pressure. If there are any issues, contact a water heater repair professional. Also, check nearby valves, including the one that allows you to shut off your water heater if it “lets go” or releases water.
Watch Your Water Pressure
If your home’s water pressure is too high or too low, it can affect your water heater and how it operates. If the water pressure is too high, for instance, your water heater could end up working too hard to send the right amount of water to your home’s faucets. If it’s difficult to control your water pressure, there’s a special valve that can be installed to solve this problem.
Watch the Mineral Content of Your Water
The mineral content of water is referred to as hard water. If you have issues with hard water, your water heater can be affected over time. Hard water has extra minerals that speed up corrosion. With a traditional water heater, this can affect the anode rod, which is located in the center of the tank. It’s a protective rod that keeps minerals from the sides of the tank.
Signs It’s Time for Water Heater Maintenance
There are some signs to look for suggesting it’s time for professional water heater maintenance or repair services. The main ones include:
- Bad smelling water
- Discolored water
- Water that takes too long to heat
- Water that’s too hot or too cold
- Odd sounds coming from your water heater
- Water leaking from your tank
Get More Life Out of Your Water Heater
If your water heater is more than a year old, it’s time for water heater maintenance and upkeep services. Let the team at Evenflo Plumbing take care of your water heater maintenance needs in Corvallis, OR.
