Keep It Functional: Must-Do Water Heater Maintenance Steps

If you don’t maintain your water heater before the winter, it could eventually stop working, and you may find yourself without hot water during the coldest times of the year. Fortunately, acting accordingly when signs like rumbling or dripping occur can help you stop trouble from worsening further.

This blog post will discuss the five most important steps you should never skip when performing heater maintenance according to Optimal Plumbing Solutions, the go-to company for quality water heater repair in Raleigh, NC.

Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve

The temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR) keeps your water from building up too much pressure. Check the TPR valve annually to ensure it is working properly or else the water heater gets damaged and you will require a water heater replacement.

Inspect Your Anode Rod

Unless you have a tankless water heater, your heater will have an anode rod. The anode rod helps to protect the inside of your water heater from corrosion.

If it’s more than halfway gone, your tank starts to take the damage instead. Checking it every couple of years can add years to your water heater’s lifespan. And if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, a licensed plumber can handle it in minutes.

Flush Your Water Heater

Flushing your water heater helps eliminate any sediment that may have built up inside the tank. This is an important step in the water heater maintenance routine as sediment can lead to decreased efficiency and eventual failure of your water heater.

Check the Burner

Water heaters powered by gas should be checked every six months. The burner’s flame should be blue and there should be no signs of soot or other deposits around the burner. This ensures that your water heater is burning safely and efficiently.

Properly maintaining your water heater ensures it will run safely and efficiently for years to come. For dependable water heater installation, maintenance, and repairs, turn to Optimal Plumbing Solutions. Reach out to us today so we can help you with your plumbing needs!