Water Heaters: The Unsung Heroes
Water heaters are easily forgotten in the grand scheme of home appliances. In part, this is because they largely remain out of sight. Although they work in the background, a dysfunctional water heater can wreak havoc on daily life.
Water Heater Maintenance: Flushing the Tank
There is more to water heater maintenance than flushing the tank, but this is one of the most well-known parts of a tuneup.
The average water heater needs to be flushed on an annual basis. Because sediment and minerals build up inside the bottom of the tank, flushing it helps keep the water clean.
The gas must be completely turned off before a technician can attach the hose. Then, the entire tank must be drained until the water runs clear. Depending on the tank, a professional plumber can complete this job in approximately one to two hours.
Not all water heaters have tanks. Tankless water heater inspection includes testing the pressure relief valve, checking for leaks, and inspecting the anode rod. All water heaters, regardless of whether they have tanks, will benefit from having their thermostat examined. Once this is completed, professionals will tighten any loose electrical connections before finishing.
Why Is Maintenance Important?
Annual water heater maintenance saves homeowners money on their monthly bills. If a water heater must work harder to deliver hot water to the bathrooms and kitchen, it will need more energy and water to operate.
While the bills are increasing, energy efficiency is decreasing. This means less hot water for showering and cooking. Not only is this a sanitary problem, but it also ruins a relaxing shower or bath.
A broken water heater can often still provide lukewarm water, but it may never reach the typical hot water temperature of 120 degrees. If household members must wait for several minutes before the water heats up, this is also an indication that the water heater may need to be professionally examined.
Yearly maintenance saves homeowners money on future water heater repairs. By keeping it up to date, water heater replacement can be significantly postponed. On average, complete water heater maintenance takes 30 - 60 minutes.
When Is Water Heater Maintenance Necessary?
Water heater maintenance should be done at least once per year. Homes in areas with hard water need to have their heater examined more often. This is because hard water can ruin the tank.
Hard water contains higher-than-average levels of magnesium and calcium. This mineral buildup can damage water appliances over time. Although many homeowners assume well water is healthier, groundwater is more likely to carry large amounts of calcium.
Homeowners are advised to fill a bottle with tap water and add a few drops of liquid soap to test if the home has hard water. The water should still appear clear after shaking the mixture for 10 - 20 seconds. If it is cloudy or discolored, there is significant mineral buildup.
Water heater service does not require household members to leave the premises. Depending on the heater, it can be done in as little as twenty minutes. If household water is hard, maintenance should be scheduled twice per year.
About Shamrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, Inc.
Shamrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, Inc., has been awarded the Angie’s List Super Service Award six years in a row for outstanding service in Orlando, FL. They are available 24/7, offering free estimates on some services, assisting customers in a friendly manner, and not charging any overtime fee! Call Shamrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning, Inc. today to learn more about their water heating maintenance and installation services.
