These Tips Will Help You Maintain Your Water Heater

When you make large purchases for your home, it stands to reason that you want them to last as long as they can. Your home’s water heater is no exception. The average hot water tank lasts around eight to twelve years, but with regular maintenance and the right settings, you can be sure that it’ll function well for its entire lifespan. Here are some tips to keep your water heater in ship shape.

​Maintaining Your Water Heater

1. Set the temperature correctly: Too many homes have their water heaters set to a default temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is not only unnecessary, but it also increases the likelihood that your family could suffer from burns. Improve the efficiency of your home and the lifespan of your water heater by setting the temperature to 120 degrees instead.
2. Insulate: Insulation can go a long way toward making your water heater more efficient, saving you money over the years. Ask a professional plumber to check your unit’s insulation.
3. Replace the anode rod: The anode rod on your water heater keeps your system clean and is a part that may need to be replaced on occasion. Make sure to check this annually.
4. Ask a professional to flush the system: Performing a full system flush every one to three years can not only increase your water heater’s efficiency, but it can also extend the lifespan of your unit. Call a plumber to flush your system today.
5. Be aware of your expiration date: Finally, make sure you know when your water heater is set to “expire.” That date will be an important one to keep in mind when it’s time for a new water heater.

By Tim Smith

Published: July 26, 2016