Your water heater in Downriver Michigan is not an appliance that should go uncared for. This is the powerhouse behind your showers, laundry, and clean dishes, so you really don’t want to let it go unmaintained and risk breaking down. While the lifespan for a water heater averages at about 10 years, there are things you can do to make this last longer and you can risk the lifespan being cut short by not conducting some things.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Water Heater in Downriver Michigan
The location of the water heater plays a huge role in just what can be done to maintain the water heater by a home owner. For the most part, water heaters and tanks should only be serviced by properly qualified technicians. However, for some homeowners who maintain a DIY attitude, there are things that you may be able to do to help ensure your water heater lasts a long time. However, working on your water heater is very dangerous and you can be seriously injured. There are plumbing companies in Downriver Michigan that will also do these maintenance routines for you at a nominal cost.
Without the following maintenance practices, your water heater will not even last the average 10 years in your home. Here are the things you must do to properly take care of your water heater.
- Check the Temperature – It is imperative you pay attention to the temperature reading on your water heater. Often, manufacturer settings are around 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is actually a lot hotter than your typical home needs. This can result in scalding, mineral buildup, and accelerated corrosion. The recommended setting for a water heater is actually 120 degrees. If your water heater is set at this lower temperature, you greatly reduce these risks and other damages to your water tang. You also save on the energy required to heat the water those additional 20 degrees. A great way to determine if the thermostat is correct and the temperature setting is good is to use a kitchen thermometer on the water to determine just how hot it is. Sometimes the thermostat on the water heater can malfunction and allow the water to become too hot.
- Test the Pressure Valve – When you raise and lower the test lever, there should be a release of hot water into the drainpipe if your pressure relief valve is functioning appropriately. You should regularly test this to be sure it is working and to clear out debris that could get into the pipe. If a big burst is not coming out each and every time you test this, you should strongly consider calling a plumber to take a look and possibly install a new pressure relief valve. When you do this it may allow hot water to rapidly exit the water heater. If your water heater is located in an area inside the home which can be damaged by this water you may want to skip this step. Even if the drain is in tact the water can sometimes spray out causing water to get into areas where it shouldn’t. It will also be very hot water and can burn you if it gets on you directly from the water heater.
- Drain the Tank – You may not realize it, but it is a good idea to drain your tank a few times a year. You really only need to flush about a quarter of the tank out. Just turn off the cold water supply and hook a garden hose to the drain valve. Then just run water through until it’s clear. This is going to remove any sediment and keep your water heating even and efficient. Again, you’ll need to be careful depending on where your water heater is located as water may escape during this process.
If you conduct these essential maintenance procedures on a regular basis, you will have a water heater in tip top condition that functions appropriately and will last. While the water heater isn’t an appliance you touch on a daily basis, you certainly use it daily and need to maintain it well.
Be sure to call one of the top plumbing companies in Downriver Michigan to check, repair, or install your water heater. Downriver Plumbers is a fully licensed master plumber in Downriver Michigan and can help you get the most from your water heater.
