How To Extend The Life Of Your Water Heater

Don’t wait for your water heater to break down before calling your local, trusted plumber. Make sure you schedule preventative tune-ups regularly so your water heater system functions longer and more efficiently. Here are some tips you can do to extend your water heater life expectancy.

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How To Increase Water Heater Lifespan

water heater maintenance to extend lifespan

This article includes six effective ways to increase your water heater’s service life. These methods can help your water heater function efficiently while preventing the need to have early water heater replacements.

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Flush The Water Storage Tank

A common problem with water heaters is the sediment buildup/mineral deposit. Your heater has a high chance of developing this problem whether you have soft or hard water. Mineral deposits can clog water pipes, reduce the storage tank capacity, lower the efficiency of the water heater, and damage your water heater. Conduct regular tank flushes to prevent this problem. It is recommended that this task is done every six months. Flushing your tank can be messy if you do not have the right tools, safety gear, and knowledge. Have a professional plumber help you. They can inspect and maintain your water heater for you.

Descale Your Tankless Water Heating System

image of an automatic or tankless water heater

Tankless water heaters can accumulate minerals as time passes, like traditional tank water heaters. Mineral collects around valves, pipes, and inlets in tankless systems. You need to ensure the tankless water heater is always free from sediment to extend its lifespan. However, cleaning a tankless system properly can be challenging and risky as it includes working with potentially toxic chemicals and electricity. For example, undiluted vinegar and other solutions are needed in the descaling process. There could be severe consequences when these chemicals aren’t used properly. Call a professional plumber to check your on-demand water heater and clean it thoroughly.

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Inspect The Anode Rod

A water heater system has an anode rod. It is made of zinc- or aluminum-coated steel core. Its primary function is to protect the interior lining of the storage tank. Having a worn-out or damaged anode rod will cause a storage tank leak. Therefore, schedule preventative maintenance regularly. A professional will check the anode rod’s thickness and coating. They will have to loosen the hex head and drain some water to do this. Doing so includes working with electricity, so proper tools, gear, and caution are needed. Therefore, leave it in the capable hands of a certified plumber. A plumber can also quickly and seamlessly replace the anode rod for you.

Check The Hot Water Heater Thermostat Setting

plumber adjusting water heater thermostat

Check the temperature setting of your tankless water system at least annually. Having the temperature set too high will spike up your energy bills and hasten scale buildup. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that the water heater temperature should be set as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit to remove dangerous bacteria from the water. On the other hand, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that the water heater’s temperature should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Consult a certified plumber to help you find the best temperature setting for your home.

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Test Pressure-Release Valve

image of a plumber performing water heater flush

Traditional tank water heaters are usually equipped with different safety features. This includes a built-in pressure-relief valve. This component automatically releases pressure when it reaches dangerously high levels so the tank doesn’t explode. It is crucial to your safety, so you should always make sure that the pressure-release valve is in tiptop condition. You can determine if it is working properly or not by lifting the valve’s lever. Doing so should let the water flow out of the discharge pipe. If it doesn’t happen, contact a qualified plumber to diagnose and repair the problem. Professional plumbers provide quality services while using quality replacement parts that will last for a long time.

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Insulate The Water Heater And Pipes

A method to increase your water heater’s life expectancy is to ensure it isn’t always running at full capacity. This will lessen the rate of wear and tear. The US Department of Energy (DOE) states that insulating your water tank can reduce standby heat losses by as much as 45% and lower your water heating bills by up to 16%. In addition, insulating the pipes can keep winter-related plumbing issues like frozen pipes at bay. Insulate both cold and hot water pipes to achieve the best results.

Insulation ensures that the water pipes are free from condensation during the summer. However, it can be difficult to insulate your water heater properly because of hard-to-reach areas and parts like temperature controls. Insulating the water system on your own will highly likely result in you not doing it correctly because you do not have the proper tools, among other reasons. Delegate this task to a qualified plumber to save time and money.

 

Conclusion

Extend your propane water heater’s lifespan by insulating the water pipes and heater, checking the thermostat setting at least once a year, inspecting the anode rod, conducting regular pressure-relief valve checks, descaling your tankless system, and flushing the water storage tank. These tasks can be difficult or dangerous, especially if you do not have the right tools, skills, and knowledge. Therefore, let a professional plumber assist you.

Call Tevis Energy For Reliable Home Comfort Services

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For all your reliable fuel delivery service needs in central Maryland and southern Pennsylvania, do not hesitate to call Tevis Energy. Our company provides excellent fuel delivery services that are highly affordable, fast, and friendly. Our sister companies offer a full line of HVAC services, fireplace, whole house generators, and water heater services.

You can count on Tevis Energy to provide you with superior service at all times. Call us today to know more about the financing options and various delivery plans we offer.
Our company also has a wide range of HVAC services to help improve your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Some of our services include furnace maintenance, heater repairs, HVAC replacements, and more. Call us today.

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