From showers to dishes to laundry, we rely on our water heaters to keep our lives running smoothly. So, when that hot water suddenly disappears, it can throw a serious wrench in our plans. That’s why taking care of your water heater and giving it the love and attention it deserves is important.
I used to be just like you, and I didn’t know anything about water heaters. But one day, my nice, warm shower suddenly went cold! That’s when it hit me: I needed to learn all about taking care of my water heater. So, I started learning and got to work, and now, I’m here to pass on what I’ve learned to you!
DIY Ways to Take Care of Your Water Heater
Suppose you’re comfortable tinkering with appliances and following instructions. In that case, you can tackle some basic maintenance tasks on your own or hire water heater services.
Here are four easy-peasy DIY ways to keep your water heater in tip-top shape. And you can trust me as I have used them by myself. Let’s discuss:
1. Flushing the Tank
Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater tank, decreasing efficiency and even corrosion. To prevent this, it’s a good idea to flush out the tank once a year. Simply attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, turn off the power or gas supply, and let the water drain out until it runs clear.
2. Checking the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is like your water heater’s safety net. To ensure it’s working properly, lift the lever on the valve and let some water out. You’re good to go if it releases water and then stops when you lower the lever. If not, it might be time to replace the valve.
3. Insulating the Pipes
Insulating your hot water pipes is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent heat loss and save energy. Pre-slit foam pipe insulation is available at any hardware store, and it’s super easy to install—just slip it over the pipes and secure it with duct tape.
4. Testing the Temperature
It’s a good idea to check the temperature of your hot water now and then to ensure it’s not too hot or too cold. You can do this by filling a cup with hot water from a faucet and using a thermometer to measure the temperature.
The ideal temperature for most water heaters is between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water is hotter or colder than that, you can adjust the temperature setting on your water heater.
3 Reasons When You Need Professional Services
- If your water heater is making strange noises or leaking water, it’s a sign of serious issues like sediment buildup or corrosion. Pay attention to it, and call the professionals to get it fixed.
- If you’re always running out of hot water or it needs to get hotter, it’s time to call in the experts. It could be a problem with the thermostat or heating element that needs professional attention.
- If your water heater is over ten years old, it might be time to replace it. Older units are more likely to have problems like leaks or efficiency issues, so it’s best to upgrade to a newer model.
