Keep Your Water Heater in Top Shape: Essential Maintenance Tips from Spencer Plumbing
When it comes to comfort in your home, a reliable hot water heater is essential. In San Angelo, Texas, where temperatures can drop during the winter months, maintaining your water heater is not just a convenience; it's a necessity. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your water heater but also ensures it operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. Here at Spencer Plumbing, we know the importance of keeping your water heater in top shape. Here’s a guide to help you understand the basics of water heater maintenance and how to keep it running smoothly year-round.Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Why Water Heater Maintenance Matters
Your water heater works hard every day to provide hot water for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and more. Over time, sediment builds up in the tank, the heating elements wear out, and parts can become damaged. Regular maintenance helps:
Prevent Costly Repairs: A well-maintained water heater is less likely to break down, saving you money on unexpected repair bills.
Improve Efficiency: Sediment buildup can cause the unit to work harder, leading to higher energy costs. Routine maintenance keeps your water heater energy-efficient.
Extend Lifespan: Water heaters typically last around 8–12 years, but regular maintenance can help maximize that lifespan, delaying the need for a costly replacement.
Ensure Safety: Gas or electric water heaters pose potential risks if not maintained properly. Regular checks help detect potential issues before they become hazards.
Key Water Heater Maintenance Tasks
Here are some essential tasks to keep your water heater in great shape:
1. Flush the Tank Annually
Sediment buildup is one of the biggest issues for water heaters. Over time, minerals from your water supply settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging the heating element. Draining and flushing the tank once a year helps remove sediment and keep the water heater running smoothly.
Steps to flush the tank:
Turn off the power to the water heater. For gas heaters, set the gas valve to “pilot.”
Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Place the other end of the hose in a safe drainage area.
Open the drain valve and let the water flow until it runs clear.
Close the drain valve, remove the hose, and refill the tank.
If you’re unsure about doing this yourself, our professionals at Spencer Plumbing can handle it for you quickly and safely.
2. Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a critical part of your water heater that prevents corrosion. Made of magnesium or aluminum, this rod attracts minerals that would otherwise corrode the tank walls. Over time, the rod itself corrodes and eventually needs replacing—usually every 2-3 years.
How to check the anode rod:
Turn off the water heater and let it cool.
Locate the anode rod (usually on top of the tank).
Unscrew it carefully and check for signs of corrosion or wear.
If the rod is corroded or less than ½ inch thick, it’s time to replace it.
3. Check the Temperature Setting
Setting your water heater to the right temperature improves efficiency and safety. The recommended setting is around 120°F (49°C). Higher temperatures can cause scalding, while lower settings may encourage bacterial growth, such as Legionella.
To adjust the temperature:
Locate the thermostat dial on the tank and adjust as needed.
4. Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that releases excess pressure from the tank. Testing it annually ensures it’s working properly and reduces the risk of tank explosions.
How to test the valve:
Locate the pressure relief valve, usually on the side or top of the tank.
Place a bucket underneath to catch water.
Pull the lever up gently—hot water should flow out. If not, the valve might need replacing.
5. Insulate the Heater and Pipes
In colder months, insulating your water heater and hot water pipes can reduce heat loss, improve efficiency, and prevent pipes from freezing. Insulating jackets and pipe sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install.
When to Call Spencer Plumbing
Routine maintenance can usually be handled by homeowners, but if you encounter any issues, it’s best to call in the professionals. At Spencer Plumbing, we’re equipped to handle all types of water heater maintenance and repairs, from replacing heating elements to tackling tough sediment buildup. We offer thorough inspections and are happy to answer any questions you have about your water heater’s performance.
Keep Your Water Heater Running Smoothly with Spencer Plumbing
Taking time for regular water heater maintenance can save you from cold showers and costly repairs. With a few simple tasks, you can improve your water heater’s efficiency, extend its lifespan, and ensure that your home always has hot water when you need it. If you’d rather have a professional handle it, Spencer Plumbing is here to help. Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance appointment, and let us keep your water heater—and your home—running smoothly.