Modern tank water heaters can last around 15 years with proper maintenance, and at that point, you’ll likely be replacing it due to energy efficiency rather than a particular fault or failure. Despite this, many water heaters fail within six to eight years. In order to help you avoid this, let’s explore the steps you can take to prevent the most common problems.
Flush the System
Many homeowners take a break/fix approach to their water heaters, which is a big mistake. Most manufacturers recommend flushing their systems at least once a year. Your plumber will hook up a hose to the drain valve to remove all the sediment and limescale that has built up over time. Sediment is the number one contributor to high energy consumption in water heaters. Limescale undermines the tank and other components, including the heating elements.
Tankless water heaters require regular flushing too. While they don’t build up sediment, they do build up mineral deposits. Flushing them is how you descale these systems. The process is a bit different as it often requires a recirculating pump and a 5-gallon bucket.
If your water is hard, you may need to flush or descale as often as every six months. Many plumbers recommend water softening systems for tankless water heaters. It’s a good idea for tank water heaters too. Installing a water softener will actually save you money in maintenance and equipment costs over the long term.
Replace the Sacrificial Anode Rod
A sacrificial anode rod attracts minerals and sediment in order to slow the rate at which it accumulates. These rods give out over time. During your annual maintenance, your plumber will inspect the rod and replace it as needed. You’ll typically need to replace the rod every three years or so.
Adjust the Temperature
Many water heaters ship at a set temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends 120 degrees. It is safer and more efficient, and it saves wear and tear on the unit. Whenever you’ll be away from home for 48 hours or more, put the water heater in vacation mode. If your system doesn’t have a vacation mode, set the system to the lowest temperature that it supports.
Avoiding Leaks
Never ignore any amount of water no matter how apparently minor. A water heater leak can lead to substantial water damage fast. Inspect your water heater at least once a month. Check around the base for signs of water and corrosion. Inspect the drain valve and hoses. Test the temperature and pressure (T&P) valve several times, and call your plumber if water does not drain out.
A proactive approach to your water heater can save you money and headaches. If you live in Yuma, AZ, contact us at PHD Plumbing to schedule a water heater maintenance appointment.