12 Best Water Heater Tips For The New Year

With the new year in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about taking care of your water heater. A well-maintained water heater can help you save money on energy bills, reduce the risk of costly repairs and ensure that your hot showers are always comfortable.

In this article, we will provide twelve essential tips for getting your New Year water heater maintenance off to a great start. By following these simple steps, you can make sure that your water heater is running at its peak efficiency and ready to provide hot water whenever you need it.

Turn Down Your Thermostat

One of the easiest things you can do to maintain your water heater is to turn down its thermostat. Many people keep their thermostats set too high, which can cause the water in the tank to become overly hot and can lead to problems like scalding or mineral build-up.

It’s best to keep your thermostat set between 110- and 120-degrees Fahrenheit for optimal efficiency and safety.

Flush Your Water Heater

Another important maintenance step is flushing your water heater at least once a year. This process involves draining some of the water from the tank and removing sediment and other debris that could be clogging up your pipes or causing damage to other parts of your plumbing system. A plumber or a handyman can help you with this task if needed.

Inspect Your Heating Elements

It’s also important to inspect your water heater’s heating elements regularly. These are the parts that heat the water in your tank, so it’s essential to make sure they’re working properly and not showing signs of wear or damage. If your heating elements need to be replaced, call a professional plumber for assistance.

Check Valves and Connections

Next, you should check all the valves and connections associated with your water heater to make sure they’re secure and functioning properly. This includes inspecting the pressure relief valve and ensuring that there aren’t any leaks coming from pipes or fittings.

Setup Heat Traps

You should consider installing heat traps on your water heater if it doesn’t already have them. These devices help reduce the amount of energy used to heat the water in the tank and can save you money on your energy bills.

Make Sure to Use Cold Water

You should make sure you use cold water when filling your tank and avoid mixing hot or warm water with cold. This can lead to mineral build-up in the tank and could cause damage to other parts of your plumbing system.

Fix Any Leaky Faucets

It’s essential to check any faucets that are connected to your water heater and make sure they aren’t leaking. Leaky faucets can lead to wasted water and higher energy bills. If you find any leaks, call a professional plumber for help.

Empty the Tank Occasionally

If you don’t use your water heater often, it’s a good idea to empty the tank every few months. This will help prevent mineral buildup and ensure that your hot water is always ready when you need it.

Insulate the Pipes

It’s important to insulate the pipes that connect your water heater to other parts of your plumbing system. This will help keep the hot water inside the pipes longer and reduce energy costs. For example, in colder climates, insulating the pipes can help lower your energy bills as hot water won’t cool down as quickly on its way to the point of use.

Remove Old Appliances

If you have an old water heater in your home, it’s best to remove it and replace it with a newer, more efficient model. This can help save money on energy bills and reduce the risk of any major issues with the appliance.

Check the TPR Valve

Lastly, it’s important to check the temperature and pressure relief valve on your water heater. This is a safety device that prevents the system from becoming overloaded or over-pressurized. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, call a professional plumber for assistance.

Schedule Maintenance with Access Heating & Air Conditioning

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your water heater running efficiently and safely. If you’re not sure how to maintain your system or don’t have the time to do it yourself, contact Access Heating & Air Conditioning for help.

Our team of experienced technicians can take care of all the steps mentioned above and more to make sure your water heater is in tip-top shape. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!