Maintaining Your Water Heater Is Important
Not so long ago, having a water heater was considered a luxury reserved for only the most wealthy. Today, almost all modern homeowners have hot water on demand thanks to the invention of water heaters. The water heater is one of the most important pieces of home plumbing hardware.
Water heaters warm up water for daily tasks like cooking and cleaning, so it’s a useful modern plumbing fixture for maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable environment. A new water heater can last for around 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Water heater maintenance helps improve the system's longevity, prevents the need for future repairs, and keeps utility bills lower.
Flush Out Mineral Sediment
Spring cleaning for the water heater can mean sweeping up debris around the outside of the tank, but the most important place to clean is the inside of the tank. During heating, natural minerals in the water may separate into solid sediment that sinks to the bottom. When the water circulates in the tank, so does the slurry of sediment.
As the sediment builds up, it can cause problems for the water heater. Sediment buildup reduces a heater's efficiency and can wear down the inside of the tank until corrosion occurs. It can also get lodged in the inner motor of the water heater until it eventually shuts down. Flushing out mineral sediment from the water heater at least once a year is essential for keeping the water heater in working condition.
Replace Broken Parts
Another important step that water heater technicians take during annual system maintenance is checking for broken parts and replacing them before the problem worsens. When left in a state of disrepair, a small repair can turn into a total system failure. It is best to catch broken and worn-out parts to replace them early on.Water heaters use a system of valves to control water flow through the tank. Because these valves get daily use, they are susceptible to wearing out. The water heater technician should check all valves for signs of wear and tear during maintenance. Another water heater part that needs replacement every few years is the anode rod.
Schedule Annual Water Heater Maintenance
Benefits of scheduling annual water heater maintenance include protecting the home from safety hazards associated with water heater malfunction and saving money on unnecessary future repairs that could result from leaving the water heater in a state of disrepair. Water heaters full of sediment or broken parts may need to work twice as hard to keep up with the demand for hot water, causing a spike in the price of the power bill.
Leaving a water heater in a state of disrepair can be dangerous for the home. However, it’s still not recommended for homeowners to attempt DIY water heater repair because of the hazardous high temperatures. It is best to leave water heater maintenance and repairs up to an experienced local plumber.
About Lodder Brothers Limited
Lodder Brothers Limited is a trusted local plumber available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies. They also offer upfront pricing and a two-year guarantee on plumbing repairs to give customers peace of mind. Homeowners can depend on the experienced professionals at Lodder Brothers Limited for friendly, fast, and fair service at every appointment. Call them today for water heater services in Guelph, ON.
