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A water heater is one of the essential appliances in your home, providing hot water for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and more. To ensure your water heater runs efficiently and lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is key. Here are some expert tips from Brooks Handyman Services to help you maintain your water heater and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Why Water Heater Maintenance Is Important

Regular maintenance of your water heater can help:

• Extend the Life of the Unit: Proper care can add years to the lifespan of your water heater.

• Improve Efficiency: A well-maintained water heater uses less energy, saving you money on utility bills.

• Prevent Breakdowns: Regular checks can catch potential issues before they become major problems.

• Ensure Safety: Maintenance can help prevent dangerous situations like leaks or bursts.

1. Check the Temperature Setting

The Tip: Ensure your water heater’s thermostat is set to the recommended temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This setting is hot enough for most household needs but not so high that it increases the risk of scalding or energy waste.

How to Do It:

• Locate the thermostat on your water heater.

• Adjust the temperature setting if necessary.

Why It Matters: Keeping the temperature at 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save energy and reduce the risk of burns.

2. Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The Tip: The pressure relief valve is a crucial safety feature that releases pressure if the tank becomes over-pressurized. Testing it regularly ensures it’s functioning correctly.

How to Do It:

• Locate the valve, usually on the top or side of the water heater.

• Place a bucket under the discharge pipe connected to the valve.

• Lift the valve’s lever and let it snap back. You should hear a gurgling sound as water is released into the pipe. If it doesn’t, the valve may need to be replaced.

Why It Matters: A faulty pressure relief valve can lead to tank explosions if pressure builds up without a way to escape.

3. Flush the Tank Annually

The Tip: Over time, sediment and minerals can build up at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging the water heater. Flushing the tank helps remove these deposits.

How to Do It:

• Turn off the power or gas to the water heater.

• Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.

• Run the other end of the hose to a suitable drainage area.

• Open the valve and let the tank drain completely.

• Close the valve, remove the hose, and refill the tank.

Why It Matters: Removing sediment buildup keeps your water heater running efficiently and extends its lifespan.

4. Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod

The Tip: The anode rod attracts corrosive elements in the water, preventing them from rusting the tank. Checking and replacing the anode rod when necessary can significantly extend the life of your water heater.

How to Do It:

• Turn off the power or gas to the water heater.

• Drain a few gallons of water from the tank.

• Locate the anode rod, typically on the top of the unit.

• Use a wrench to unscrew and remove the rod.

• Inspect it for corrosion. If it’s heavily corroded, replace it with a new one.

Why It Matters: A healthy anode rod prevents rust and corrosion, protecting the tank’s interior.

5. Insulate the Tank and Pipes

The Tip: Insulating your water heater tank and pipes can improve efficiency and reduce heat loss, especially in colder climates.

How to Do It:

• Purchase a water heater insulation blanket and pipe insulation from a hardware store.

• Wrap the blanket around the tank, cutting out spaces for controls and the pressure relief valve.

• Secure the blanket with tape.

• Insulate the first few feet of hot and cold water pipes connected to the heater.

Why It Matters: Insulation reduces heat loss, saving energy and money.

6. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance

The Tip: While there are many maintenance tasks you can do yourself, having a professional inspect and service your water heater annually can catch issues you might miss.

How to Do It:

• Schedule an appointment with a professional plumber or handyman.

• Ensure they check all components, including the thermostat, heating elements, and gas connections.

Why It Matters: Professional maintenance ensures your water heater is in top condition and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Regular maintenance of your water heater is essential to ensure it operates efficiently and lasts as long as possible. By following these tips, you can prevent common issues and enjoy consistent hot water in your home. For professional water heater maintenance and other handyman services in Washtenaw County, trust Brooks Handyman Services.