Winter can really be rough on your water heater. Cold temperatures chill incoming water, pipes, and the water heater itself. The water heater has to work harder to keep hot water flowing. This puts a strain on its parts and reduces its lifespan. Increased consumption of both water and electricity will show on your bills. But you can decrease the impact of winter’s chill by following these tips.
Have a Professional Flush the Tank
A buildup of sediment can reduce the efficiency of your water heater. Hard water deposits are also a problem. You may hear strange noises like popping, rumbling, or banging as an indicator that you have sediment in your water heater’s tank. Have a professional flush out this sediment so that it will not harden inside. With a clear tank, water will flow consistently, and efficiency will be restored.
Inspect Pipes and Connections
Take a look at the pipes connected to the water heater. See if there are leaks, loose connections, or rust. Check out the top and base of the tank and anywhere pipes and valves meet. If you see any signs of moisture, call a plumber.
Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve
This valve guards against pressure buildup. Have a plumber run a test on the TPR valve. When they do this, they will lift the lever and make sure water discharges through the drain pipe. If it doesn’t work properly or drips continuously, then it needs to be replaced. This is an important safety feature, so replacing it if it is malfunctioning is paramount.
Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes
To guard against the cooling effects of winter, wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket. Affix foam insulation around pipes. This will guard against heat loss and excess energy consumption.
Get a Professional Preventative Inspection
Perhaps you have noticed signs that your water heater is not functioning optimally. Lukewarm water, strange noises, discolored water, and high energy bills are some of those signs. You may also have done an inspection and even a DIY tank flush, but the indicators remain. A plumbing professional can inspect your water heater for problems that you may have missed. If they spot anything wrong, they will work with you to craft a plan to provide the appropriate fixes.
Schedule Annual Routine Maintenance
A skilled plumber can set your mind at ease with yearly maintenance to keep your water heater working efficiently. Set this appointment to make sure the above tasks are taken care of every year, and you will stay ahead of system breakdowns.
Don’t leave your water heater to chance. If you need assistance maintaining your water heater in Antioch, CA, please reach out to Almighty Plumbing.
