Making Sure Water Heater Service Happens on Time
As the family prepares for another busy season, it may be time to consider the strain on one of the home’s most used yet little-recognized appliances: the water heater. The water heater must work properly to clean people, clothing, and dishes. The average household uses the water heater every day. That is hard work for any appliance. Just like a car, a water heater must be properly maintained to keep it running and prevent a need for water heater repair or replacement. This article will discuss what happens at a visit and why it is important.
Checks Made During Water Heater Maintenance
Several things must be checked when a plumbing technician comes for a maintenance call. Though water heating seems simple, the water heater is more than an extra large kettle. A few of the tasks that a technician will perform on a maintenance check include:
- Replacing the Anode Rod: The anode rod in a water heater attracts corrosive ions that often result from minerals dissolved in water. Since over 90% of the households in the US have some hard water, this is a feature that protects the water tank from damage. The anode rod is meant to be corroded instead of the inside of the tank. Therefore, it needs to be replaced regularly.
- Flushing the Tank: Hard water scale, the mineral deposits that have precipitated out of the water, often coat the interior of the water heater, taking up valuable real estate and reducing efficiency. Plumbing technicians will typically flush the tanks with a chemical solvent to remove the scale and help make a more efficient tank.
- Checking the PRV: This safety feature, known as the PRV or pressure release valve, reduces strain on the tank and leaks by releasing excess pressure.
- Checking Connections: Ensuring the fuel lines, electrical wires, and pipes are properly fitted and checking for leaks is important.
The Advantages of Maintenance for the Water Heater
Why get regular maintenance? It may seem like a hassle, but one visit can prevent a need for water heater replacement or water heater repair later. Here are a few of the benefits.
- Fewer repairs needed
- Higher energy efficiency
- Longer lifespan
- More consistent hot water
- Faster heat recovery
- Peace of mind
When Should a Maintenance Call Be Scheduled
A water heater should last at least ten years and, with proper maintenance, can last even longer. An annual inspection is suggested, but if the water is mineral-rich, it may need to be checked more often, perhaps every six months. This will keep the household running smoothly and give homeowners the confidence to know that their plumbing and water heating are in good shape.
About Swell Plumbing
Fast and professional, with an accreditation from the BBB, Swell Plumbing offers same-day emergency services in Salem, OR, and beyond. Homeowners can expect friendly technicians who offer honest advice and personalized solutions with every service call. Call today for water heating maintenance in Salem, OR!
