According to Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, citing the CPSC, over 4,000 U.S. children suffer burns each year from overheated residential water heaters.
Defective water heaters can pose serious risks, such as explosions, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why water heater preventive maintenance is crucial for your home’s safety.
The good news is that water heater upkeep is simpler than you might think. Let’s dive into four crucial tips that can help extend your heater’s lifespan and enhance its performance.
1. Regular Inspections
Water heaters constantly endure heat, pressure, and water. Over time, components degrade, sediment accumulates, and unexpected leaks may develop.
Inspections catch issues early before they escalate into costly repairs. Without routine inspections, minor problems may develop into the following:
- Unsafe pressure levels
- Shortened equipment lifespan
- Complete system failure
- Flooding and water damage
- Spiked energy bills
For thorough water heater inspections in Franklin, Tennessee, hire professionals like Sewell Electric & HVAC. We’ll help improve its performance, ensuring your home stays safe and comfortable.
We thoroughly inspect each part of a water heater system, including:
- Thermostat
- Drain valve
- Anode rod
- Tank (exterior and base)
- Hot and cold water supply lines
- Heating elements (electric models)
- Temperature and pressure relief valves
2. Testing Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves
A water heater’s T&P valve usually operates within the limits of 150 PSI and 210°F. If the water inside the tank overheats beyond these safe limits, the T&P valve automatically releases steam or water to reduce the excess pressure.
A valve failure can cause uncontrolled pressure buildup, risking severe damage or explosion. Regular T&P valve testing is among the key water heater efficiency tips.
It plays a direct role in heater performance enhancement by:
- Preventing overheating
- Maintaining optimal pressure
- Protecting the system
3. Flushing the Tank
Flushing the tank is one of the key preventive maintenance tips that help protect the internal system components. It prevents buildup of sediments from various minerals, maintaining the unit’s ability to heat water efficiently.
Routine flushing also prevents corrosion of the tank’s interior. Hire an HVAC technician like Sewell Electric & HVAC to flush your system’s tank if you notice:
- Fluctuating water temperatures
- Increased energy bills
- Popping or rumbling noises
- Rusty or cloudy water
- Decreased hot water supply
4. Adjusting the Temperatures
Adjusting the water heater to the U.S. Department of Energy’s recommended 120°F ensures safe, efficient operation. Some key benefits include:
- Extended heater lifespan
- Improved energy efficiency
- Consistent performance
- Enhanced safety
- Prevention of bacterial growth
Adjust the system’s thermostat settings if the water is too hot or scalding quickly. Other signs include:
- Discolored or smelly water
- Higher than normal energy bills
- No hot water
- Inconsistent water temperature
Use a thermometer to check if the water temperature matches the thermostat setting. If the setting is incorrect or the dial isn’t responding, adjust it accordingly.
Understanding Water Heater Preventive Maintenance
Water heater preventive maintenance can enhance your system’s performance and extend its lifespan. A licensed HVAC contractor like Sewell Electric & HVAC can inspect, flush, and repair your system.
For more than 75 years, we have been Williamson County’s trusted source for expert electrical, HVAC, and appliance services-with a personal touch. Contact us to find the best solutions for your HVAC or electrical needs.
