What Is Done During Water Heater Maintenance and Its Benefits
A water heater may be one of those appliances that often goes unnoticed – until a cold shower or an expensive repair brings it to attention. Yet, this hardworking fixture, which makes up about 18% of a home’s energy consumption, deserves more care than it typically gets. Regular maintenance goes beyond preventing chilly mornings; it’s a key factor in prolonging the unit’s life, ensuring it runs efficiently, avoiding costly repairs, and even safeguarding against potential safety risks. Whether it’s a traditional tank or a tankless system, keeping the water heater in top condition can save money, ensure consistent hot water, and provide peace of mind for years ahead.
Essential Maintenance Tasks
To ensure a water heater operates efficiently, regular maintenance is essential. A primary task is draining and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup. Over time, minerals settle at the bottom of the tank, affecting heating performance and potentially damaging the tank’s structure. The sacrificial anode rod, which prevents corrosion, should be checked regularly and replaced as necessary.
Another crucial maintenance task is testing the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve). This valve protects the system by releasing excess pressure to prevent dangerous malfunctions. Routine inspections also involve checking electrical components, thermostat settings, and heating elements for electric models or inspecting the burner assembly and gas line connections for gas heaters. Consistent maintenance keeps the system running efficiently, preventing costly repairs.
Benefits of Water Heater Maintenance
Regular water heater maintenance offers valuable benefits that directly affect both performance and household savings. By removing scale buildup and sediment, the heating elements or burners can operate more efficiently, reducing unnecessary strain. This improved efficiency typically leads to a 10-15% reduction in energy costs while ensuring a steady supply of hot water. In addition, properly maintained units tend to last 2-3 years longer than neglected ones, maximizing the value of the initial investment.
Most importantly, routine maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Addressing minor issues before they worsen eliminates the need for expensive emergency services, which can be up to four times more costly than regular maintenance. Inspections can catch potential problems like corroding anodes, malfunctioning heating elements, or pressure irregularities before they cause system failures or water damage. Taking a proactive approach saves money while ensuring reliable hot water throughout the year.
How Often Should Maintenance Be Done?
A well-maintained water heater operates efficiently and avoids costly failures. Scheduling an annual service appointment ensures tasks like draining the tank, testing the pressure relief valve, and inspecting all parts for damage are done properly. This regular maintenance prevents issues and helps the system run efficiently.
The anode rod, essential for preventing corrosion, typically lasts three to five years, but it may need replacing more often in areas with hard water or high usage. Keeping track of the rod’s condition helps prevent damage and extends the life of the water heater.
About Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing
Discount Mechanical Heating & Plumbing is a family-owned, veteran-operated company serving Anchorage and surrounding areas since 2004. Specializing in HVAC and plumbing services, we offer expert installations, repairs, and maintenance at competitive prices. Committed to quality, we provide 24/7 emergency service, flat-rate pricing, and the best deals on top brands, ensuring customer satisfaction with every job. Call us for water heater maintenance in Anchorage, AK!