Water Heater Maintenance and Its Benefits Explained

Things to Know About Water Heater Maintenance

Their water heater might be one of those appliances homeowners rarely think about until it malfunctions and they are stuck in a cold shower. While it quietly works behind the scenes to provide hot water for a household’s daily needs, proper water heater maintenance is often overlooked. 

Regular water heater maintenance not only helps ensure reliable hot water when needed but also provides many other advantages. Whether a home has a traditional tank water heater or a tankless water heater, calling a plumber for regular maintenance is crucial. This post will discuss water heater maintenance, including important things that are done during maintenance visits, the benefits of regular maintenance, and how often it’s needed.

Water Heater Maintenance Tasks

Regular water heater maintenance encompasses several critical tasks directly impacting the unit’s efficiency, longevity, and safety. One crucial maintenance task is draining and flushing the unit to remove sediment buildup, which accumulates from minerals in the water supply. This buildup can significantly reduce heating efficiency, cause unusual noises, and eventually lead to tank deterioration. Additionally, inspecting and replacing the anode rod is essential, as this sacrificial component prevents tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements away from the tank walls.

Another essential maintenance task is testing the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve, a critical safety feature that releases excess pressure buildup within the tank. A malfunctioning T&P valve can lead to dangerous pressure levels and potential tank rupture. During maintenance, professionals will also inspect other important water heater components and check for problems like leaks or corrosion. These comprehensive maintenance tasks and checks ensure optimal performance while identifying potential issues before they become more costly problems or safety hazards.

Water Heater Maintenance Benefits

Regular water heater maintenance offers numerous compelling benefits. It can improve the water heater’s energy efficiency, which translates to lower utility bills. Additionally, routine maintenance helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems, preventing costly emergency repairs, unexpected breakdowns, and cold showers.

Another significant advantage of water heater maintenance is extending the unit’s lifespan. Water heaters that receive proper maintenance will last longer than those that don’t, preventing the need for early replacement and protecting the investment. Professional maintenance also helps provide consistent hot water delivery with fewer issues and improved safety. 

How Often to Get Water Heater Maintenance

Regular water heater maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity, and it’s recommended that it be done at least once annually. During these yearly service visits, a qualified technician will perform essential tasks to ensure homeowners see maintenance benefits, such as flushing the tank, checking and replacing the anode rod, checking pressure relief valves, and more. 

The anode rod, a critical component that prevents tank corrosion, typically requires replacement every three to five years, though this timeline can vary based on water conditions. Homes with hard water, for example, may require more frequent anode rod replacement, sometimes as often as every two years. Regular inspection of the anode rod during annual maintenance visits allows technicians to assess its condition and replace it before tank corrosion becomes a concern. Hard water can also affect how often the water heater needs to be drained and flushed, sometimes as often as every six months, as minerals and sediment will accumulate faster. 

About Spencer Home Services

Spencer Home Services has been serving Peabody, MA, and the surrounding areas since 1980. They offer straightforward pricing, same-day services, and on-time arrival. Call them for water heater maintenance and services in Peabody, MA.

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