A water heater is an essential appliance in every home, providing hot water for daily activities like showering, cooking, and cleaning. However, many homeowners overlook routine maintenance, which can lead to breakdowns, reduced efficiency, and costly replacements. With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your water heater and ensure it operates at peak performance for years. Here’s how.
1. Flush the Tank Annually
Sediment buildup is one of the leading causes of water heater failure. Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing overheating. Flushing the tank once a year helps remove these deposits and improves performance.
How to Flush Your Water Heater:
- Turn off the power supply (electric) or set the gas to “pilot” mode.
- Shut off the cold water supply to the tank.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and direct it to a safe drainage area.
- Open the drain valve and let the water run until it’s clear.
- Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn the water and power supply back on.
2. Check and Replace the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a metal rod inside the water heater that attracts corrosive elements, preventing rust from forming in the tank. Over time, this rod deteriorates and needs replacement to keep the tank from corroding.
How to Inspect the Anode Rod:
- Turn off the water heater and let it cool.
- Locate the anode rod on top of the tank and unscrew it.
- If it’s heavily corroded (less than half of its original size), replace it with a new one.
Replacing the anode rod every 3–5 years can significantly extend the life of your water heater.
3. Adjust the Temperature Setting
Setting your water heater’s temperature too high can cause excessive wear and tear. The recommended setting is 120°F (49°C) to balance energy efficiency and prevent overheating.
Benefits of Lowering the Temperature:
- Reduces energy consumption and lowers utility bills.
- Prevents scalding and overheating issues.
- Slows down mineral buildup and corrosion inside the tank.
4. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Insulating your water heater and pipes helps maintain water temperature, reducing heat loss and energy consumption. This is especially important in colder climates.
How to Insulate Your Water Heater:
- Wrap the tank with a water heater blanket to retain heat.
- Use pipe insulation sleeves on the hot and cold water pipes to prevent freezing and improve efficiency.
This simple step can improve energy efficiency and reduce strain on your water heater.
5. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety feature that prevents excessive pressure buildup inside the tank. If it malfunctions, it can lead to leaks or even tank explosions.
How to Test the T&P Valve:
- Locate the valve on the top or side of the tank.
- Place a bucket underneath and lift the valve’s lever slightly.
- If water flows out and stops when released, it’s working properly.
- If it doesn’t release water or continues leaking, replace the valve immediately.
6. Check for Leaks and Corrosion
Regularly inspecting your water heater for leaks, rust, or unusual noises can help catch problems early before they turn into costly repairs.
Signs of a Failing Water Heater:
- Water pooling around the base of the tank.
- Rusty or discolored water coming from hot water taps.
- Rumbling or banging noises due to sediment buildup.
- A sudden drop in hot water supply.
If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional for an inspection.