Monday, September 23, 2013

Simple Water Heater Maintenance Tips

By Brian Winters


Since a water heater doesn't come cheap, it is important to keep it in tip-top shape to avoid costly repairs in the future. Neglecting regular maintenance can cause the unit to breakdown sooner than expected. When this happens, you may have to take cold showers for a day or two until your heater starts heating enough water for your household.

Turn off the heating source of the heater before carrying out repairs to avoid unfortunate accidents. It is important to be in a safe environment while maintenance is ongoing since your unit can be a dangerous appliance if not handled properly. Close the water supply to prevent water from entering the tank.

If your newly-installed gas water heater starts to leak, this is normal due to condensation. Water would eventually stop leaking as soon it starts heating water. When lighting the pilot, make sure the gas supply valve is turned on. Some units have advanced gas valves with LED indicators to know if they are working normally.

Make sure the relief valve is working at all times since this valve is responsible for releasing excessive pressure inside the tank, protecting it from overheating or blowing up. Test it by lifting its lever and allowing it to snap back on its own. If water doesn't stop draining once the handle is released, replace it immediately.

The pipe fittings and valves should always be tight enough to prevent water from leaking. Compression fittings are easier to use than soldered copper pipes. If you think your relief valve is leaking frequently, lower the thermostat settings between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also install a thermal expansion tank when necessary.

To protect the heating element gasket from burning out, do not turn on the unit until the tank is refilled. You may have to take cold showers for a day or two once the heating element breaks down. Replace it as soon as possible or call a local technician if the problem continues.

To prevent sediment from building up, drain and flush your water heater every six months. Doing this sustains the tank's efficiency as it prolongs its lifespan at the same time. Start by connecting a standard hose to the drain valve. Make sure the other end is placed in a secure area to avoid scalding burns. Open the relief valve and drain valve until the tank s empty. Once the sediments have been removed, close the drain and relief valve. Open a hot water tap inside the house before refilling.

Feel free to contact a specialist if you are not sure how to maintain and repair your unit on your own. Attempting to fix your heater without professional help can cause the problem to escalate, leading to a more expensive repair in the long run.




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