Many Fredericksburg, Virginia, homeowners don’t realize the benefits of water heater services. With annual maintenance, your water heater will last longer and perform more efficiently. Here’s how to maintain your water heater:
Perform Spot Checks
Water heater maintenance includes checking the unit periodically for drips, leaks and puddles. Be alert for any rust or cracks on the surface of the unit. If you have a gas heater, ensure that the pilot light is blue.
Inspect the Pressure Relief Valve
This valve ensures safe and effective water heater operation. Should your unit become overly pressurized, the relief valve releases excess pressure. A malfunctioning valve can result in an exploding tank.
Flush the Water Heater
Water heaters should be flushed every year. Annual flushing rids the tank of sediment buildup. Excessive sediment hampers the efficiency of the water heater, and it can clog your water lines too.
Check the Anode Rod
This rod keeps water heaters from rusting inside, and rod replacement costs less than water heater replacement. The rod should be replaced when it’s obviously corroded. Replace the rod if over six inches of core steel wire is visible. The rod also needs replacement if it’s coated with calcium. To improve performance, replace your existing rod with a zinc-aluminum model.
Reduce Water Heating Costs
Covering your water heater with a coat of insulation can increase the unit’s energy efficiency by up to 40 percent. Additionally, you can dial down the water temperature to 120°F without losing any comfort in your shower or bath. Savings are typically about five percent.
The Total Comfort team can keep your HVAC healthy and your plumbing right. If you’d prefer to have a professional maintain your water heating tank, call Total Comfort at (540) 413-0982 to schedule water heater services. One of our service technicians will be more than happy to answer your questions.
