Three Easy Maintenance Tips You Can Use To Extend The Life Of Your Water Heater

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

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Three Easy Maintenance Tips You Can Use To Extend The Life Of Your Water Heater

Your water heater's life expectancy is typically 10-12 years. However, you can begin to experience problems early on if you do not properly maintain your water heater. Regular maintenance on your water heater can extend the life span of your unit while helping prevent the likelihood of a catastrophic failure that can cause severe damage. 

Below are a few simple tips on water heater maintenance you can use to prolong the life of your hot water heater. 

Tip #1: Frequently Flush Your Water Heater 

Your water heater stores water, even when you are not using it. If you do not flush your water heater annually, mineral deposits will begin building up in the unit. As mineral deposits continue to build up in your water heater, the heating elements become stifled. As more deposits build up on the heating elements, your water heater becomes less effective in retaining heat. 

To flush your water heater, first, you need to turn off the power source to your unit, whether it is gas-powered or electric. Next, you need to connect one end of a hosepipe to the valve of your water heater and place the opposite end of the hosepipe outside or in a safe area to flush the water out. Before turning on the valve on your water heater, turn on a faucet nearby to help create a better flow in the system. Be careful when opening the valve; the water in your water heater will be hot. You need to flush the water for about 5-10 minutes or until the water runs clear. 

Tip #2: Lower Temperature 

A simple water heater maintenance tip is to lower the temperature level of the unit. Lowering the temperature can help:

• Reduce the chance of being scolded 
• Decrease utility bills 
• Prolong the life of the unit

Higher temperatures can cause quicker wear and tear on your water heater. It is recommended you set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to help reduce energy usage. 

Tip #3: Frequently Check The Pressure Relief Valve

Another quick and easy water heater maintenance tip is checking your pressure relief valve. If the pressure builds in your water heater, it can cause a catastrophic failure that may lead to the unit itself exploding. 

You can quickly fix this by turning off the power source to your unit and turning off the cold water supply valve. Place a bucket under the pressure release valve and drain the pressure using the valve tab. Once the pressure buildup is gone, the water will stop draining. 

Water Heater Maintenance Importance

Utilizing these three simple tips can prolong the life of your water heater and assist in preventing costly water damage. The average life of your water heater can differ depending on regular maintenance and the type of unit. 

If you are experiencing water damage caused by your water heater, SERVPRO Of South Greenville County is ready to assist you. We provide 24/7 emergency services 365 days a year. We have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property and make your water damage "Like it never even happened."