Essential Tips for Maintaining Any Type of Water Heater

Whether you just had a new water heater installed or are looking for ways to extend the lifespan of your existing water heater, proper maintenance is key. Maintaining your water heater can help ensure your appliance is performing reliably and will go a long way toward maximizing the longevity of your hot water system. Here are some essential tips for maintaining any type of water heater you have in your home.

Perform a Visual Inspection of Your Hot Water Heater

Your water heater consists of many different parts and components that can wear down over time. By carefully examining these parts on a regular basis, you can help prevent bigger issues down the road. You’ll want to carefully inspect the cold-water inlet, temperature and pressure (T&P) discharge pipe, T&P relief valve, drain valve, hot water outlet, and all of the other parts connected to your water heater. If any of these elements look corroded, are leaking, or are otherwise not performing up to standard, it’s best to replace these parts. This will restore the safety and functionality of your entire water heater system.

Flushing the Hot Water Tank

Most water heaters rely on a large tank to store the heated water. If you have a tankless water heater, however, you won’t have to worry about this step. For those with a more traditional water heater system, flushing the tank occasionally can help ensure the longevity and functionality of the system. Sediment can build up in the hot water tank, reducing efficiency and potentially causing clogs in your water lines. In Florida, where many of us experience hard water, this is particularly important. This process involves turning off the unit, connecting a hose to the drain valve, draining the tank, and then turning the water heater back on. After you’ve drained the tank, you’ll need to wait a while for the tank to refill and heat back up, so it may take some time before you have hot water again.

Insulate the Pipes and Water Heater

To help improve the performance of your water heater, you’ll also want to insulate the water lines and pipes. This can help your water heater perform more efficiently by preventing heat loss as the hot water is transferred into your home.

Turning to the Professionals for Water Heater Maintenance

Maintaining a hot water heater offers many benefits, but it can be dangerous if any step is done incorrectly. If you don’t feel confident taking steps to maintain your water heater on your own, it’s always best to turn to the professionals to ensure these maintenance tips are completed safely and properly for the best results.

At Florida Energy Water & Air, we proudly offer and install all types of water heaters for homeowners throughout Central Florida. Whether you have questions about how to maintain your water heater or it’s time to replace an older one, our professionals can provide you with the services and solutions that meet your needs. Contact us today for more information.