Your water heater is a crucial component of your plumbing system, providing hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry. Regular maintenance can extend its life and ensure it runs efficiently.
Drain and Flush Annually: Sediment build-up can affect your water heater’s efficiency and damage its internal components. Draining and flushing it yearly can prevent these issues.
Check the Anode Rod: The anode rod protects your water heater from corrosion. Inspect it annually and replace it if significantly worn to extend your tank’s lifespan.
Adjust Temperature: Lowering your water heater’s temperature to around 120°F can reduce energy consumption while still providing ample hot water for most needs.
Insulate Older Units: Adding an insulation blanket to an older water heater can reduce heat loss, improving efficiency and saving energy.
Regular Inspections: Have a professional plumber inspect your water heater periodically. They can identify and fix issues like leaks or signs of corrosion before they require costly repairs.
Consider Upgrading: If your water heater is old and less efficient, upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model can save you money in the long run on utility bills.
If you’ve drained and flushed the tank, checked the anode rod, adjusted the temperature, insulated the unit, and ensured regular inspections without seeing improvement, it might be time to consider more in-depth solutions.
Investigate the Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat could be the reason your water heater is underperforming. Both electric and gas water heaters have thermostats that can fail or become inaccurately calibrated over time. If the water temperature is inconsistent or not meeting the set temperature, the thermostat may need to be adjusted or replaced.
Examine the Heating Element: In electric water heaters, the heating elements can burn out, leading to a complete loss of hot water or insufficient heating. Testing the elements and replacing them if they’re defective can restore your water heater’s functionality.
Check for Internal Tank Damage: Over time, the interior tank of your water heater can suffer from corrosion or develop cracks. This damage can significantly impact its efficiency and might even lead to leaks. Unfortunately, if the tank itself is damaged, repair might not be feasible, and replacement could be the only option.
Consider System Upgrades: If your water heater is over a decade old, it may be nearing the end of its useful life. Modern water heaters are more energy-efficient and have advanced features that provide greater reliability and performance. Upgrading to a tankless water heater, for example, could offer endless hot water and lower operating costs.
Consult with a Professional Plumber: When you’ve exhausted all DIY options and your water heater still isn’t performing as it should, it’s crucial to consult with a professional plumber. They can conduct a thorough inspection to diagnose complex issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye. A professional can also advise whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution based on the age and condition of your unit.
Addressing water heater issues can be complex, and sometimes, despite best efforts, professional intervention is necessary to identify and solve the underlying problems. Taking proactive steps and knowing when to call in the experts can ensure that your home remains comfortable and your water heater operates efficiently for years to come.
ABT is currently offering a $49.00 Water Heater Flush! It includes a plumbing inspection at no additional cost.