The water heater system in your house is often inconspicuous, out of sight, and easily ignored. Until you hop into the shower one morning, expecting a comfortable spray of warm water, only to be startled by ice-cold or worse, scalding hot water.
You can avoid being in compromising situations like this by simply paying attention, especially if you live in a large household that has rapid hot water consumption.
Here are some quick tricks that you can do to keep your hot water system running smoothly and even extend its working life.
Drain your tank regularly
The water supplied to homes has minerals that could corrode or clog your heater system over time. Aside from causing damage, it could also reduce your heater’s efficiency and add up to utility costs. To avoid this, drain your heater tank regularly. Draining it once a year is enough for a two-person household and twice a year if six or more people are consuming hot water.
You can either drain your heater tank partially or entirely. However, take note that complete flushing requires isolation of the heater power while in partial flushing, hot water comes out. The bottom line is to do it until the water coming out is clear.
Test the temperature and pressure relief valve
Unforeseen problems could cause an increase in pressure or temperature in your water heater system. It could also lead to leaks or even an explosion. The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety feature designed to address this and must, therefore, be functional at all times.
Water should be coming out of the drainpipe if a functional valve is opened manually. Do this at least once a year to ensure that the relief valve is working correctly.
Check your tank’s anode rod
A heater tank is equipped with an anode rod that acts as a magnet for minerals. When functioning properly, this helps prevent mineral deposits and corrosion in your heater tank system.
Anode rods typically last 3 to 6 years, depending on the quality of your water. It is due for replacement if the entire surface of the rod is already corroded or is missing some parts.
Find the optimum setting for your heater
Water heater systems are preset to 54-60⁰C, but you can adjust this to the recommended 48⁰F or a lower setting that you feel comfortable with. Doing this reduces the amount of work your water heater has to do, preserving its heating components and, at the same time, reducing your water heater bill.
Turn off your heater when not in use
When you and your family are taking time off, so should your water heater. Turn it off or adjust to the lowest setting if you will be away for a few days like going camping or on vacations.
With proper care and attention, you could extend the average ten-year life of your water heater system. You will, however, eventually and inevitably need a replacement.
Choosing one is a decision that could affect you and your family for years to come. Wouldn’t it be great to have a flawless rapid hot water system that can last for a long time? You can approach professionals to help you out in the endeavour as they deliver and install the most trusted water heater brands of your choice at no hidden cost. Take advantage of the team’s extensive experience to find the best water heater system for your home and your budget.