You need to maintain your water heater, especially if you have recently installed a new unit. Most water heaters’ projected life span is between 8 and 12 years, but that estimate is partially based on whether you have properly maintained the water heater. You don’t want to pay for another water heater replacement in just a couple of years because of poor maintenance, so follow these tips to extend the life of your water heater & avoid water heater replacement as long as possible:
- Drain your water heater twice a year. This eliminates any mineral buildup in your water heater, which is especially important in areas with hard water. The hard water will leave minerals behind that will decrease the efficiency of your water heater, which of course, is bad news for your utility bill and for your morning showers.
- Lower the temperature setting to 120 degrees. Not only will this prevent burns from your water heater (especially important if you have children in your home), but it will also reduce damage to the tank because of overheating.
- Check the pressure relief valve. Lift the valve’s handle and let it snap back. If no water is released, it needs to be replaced.
You can most likely perform these steps in just a few minutes, so don’t waste any time preventing water heater replacement AND increasing your water efficiency AND lowering your energy bill. Sounds like a great idea, huh? If you want to be shown how to maintain your water heater by a professional, call us at Ultimate Plumbing.