A water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It provides a continuous supply of hot water for showers, baths, washing dishes, and more. However, water heaters require regular maintenance to operate safely and efficiently.
While some maintenance tasks can be done yourself, there are certain situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Basic DIY Water Heater Maintenance Tasks That You Can Do
Flushing Sediment From The Tank
Over time, sediment, such as minerals and rust, can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment clogs the heating element and reduces the tank’s efficiency. To flush it out, turn off the power to the heater and the cold water supply valve.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and route it to a floor drain or outside. Open the drain valve and flush the water until it runs clear. This process should be done annually.
Inspecting/Replacing The Anode Rod
The anode rod protects the tank from corrosion by attracting corrosion itself. As it corrodes, it needs to be replaced. Check its size every few years – replace it when more than 6 inches of the rod are gone.
Turn off the power and water, remove the old rod, clean the threads, and hand-tighten a new one. This will preserve your tank’s life.
Vacuuming Sediment From The Cold Water Inlet
Sediment can also accumulate where the cold water line connects to the bottom of the tank. Disconnect the line, stick the hose attachment of a wet/dry vacuum inside, and vacuum out any debris.
Reconnect the line and check for leaks. Do this annually, along with flushing the tank.
Checking Thermostat and Temperature Settings
Ensure the thermostat is set to the warm water needs of your household, around 120°F for most. To check it, turn the power off and remove the access panel.
Use a thermometer to verify that the water temperature matches the thermostat dial setting. Adjust if needed. Also, check that the thermostat isn’t stuck and shuts off the heating element as intended.
Inspecting/Replacing Burned Out Elements
Over time, heating elements can burn out from mineral deposits or normal wear. Inspect for signs of corrosion, cracks, or breakage.
Remove access panels and check each element. Gently try wiggling them – if they are loose, they need replacement. Replace with identical elements for proper wattage.
Bleeding Air From The Tank
Trapped air in the tank reduces its efficiency. To bleed it, turn the water heater off and open the drain valve until it clears. Then close it and turn the heater back on. Check for leaks and call a pro if air keeps entering the tank.
These basic checks can extend the life of your water heater for many years with just a small time investment. Always turn off the power and water supply before performing any maintenance tasks.
If you encounter a problem you are uncomfortable handling, don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance.
When to Call a Professional Plumber for Water Heater Maintenance
While a DIY homeowner can safely handle many basic water heater checks, some maintenance tasks require the expertise of a licensed plumber. Knowing when a job is beyond your abilities can prevent accidents and ensure repairs are done correctly.
Here are some signs that it’s time to call in the pros:
Leaks
Any leaks from the tank, connections, or temperature and pressure relief valve should not be ignored. Continued leaking can saturate surrounding materials and cause damage. Plumbers have experience assessing repairs needed to stop different types of leaks safely.
No Hot Water
If the thermostat and elements seem fine but still have no hot water, it could indicate issues with valves, gas lines, or the tank itself. Finding the true cause requires diagnostic tools and know-how that most homeowners lack. Don’t take chances with gas lines – call in a qualified gas fitter.
Pilot Light or Thermostat Problems
If the pilot light on a gas heater won’t stay lit or the thermostat is unresponsive, this signals an electrical or gas issue that should only be dealt with by a licensed technician. Tinkering with gas or electric components without training isn’t worth the risk.
Rumbling or Knocking Noises
New noises from the water heater, especially louder knocks or rattles, could signal problems with the tank or fittings that have progressed past DIY fixes. Internal issues are best left to professionals.
Excessive Corrosion
If inspecting the anode rod or other internal metal parts shows signs of severe rusting or damage, the tank may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Let a plumber assess whether repairs make sense or if a replacement is needed.
Permit Compliance
Major repairs or replacements require following local plumbing codes for safety inspections, permits, and installed equipment specifications. Leave the compliance work to trained, licensed professionals.
Any Time Safety Is a Concern
Working with gas, electricity, or live plumbing requires caution. If a repair task makes you uneasy, it’s best to let experienced help handle it instead of risking injuries. Your safety should be the top priority.
Regular preventive maintenance is important, but don’t hesitate to call the experts when a job looks beyond your ability or comfort level. Preventive maintenance and the right repair timing can make a hot water system last many years.
Now You Know How To Maintain Your Water Heater
Maintaining the longevity and efficiency of your water heater requires regular inspections and timely repairs. It also requires a keen understanding of when to call in professional help.
Homeowners can prevent unexpected breakdowns by adopting a proactive approach to water heater maintenance. This also helps ensure optimal performance and extends the lifespan of their unit.
However, caution should be exercised when tackling plumbing and electrical tasks. As the saying goes, “A stitch in time saves nine” – so does a timely phone call to a licensed professional when the task goes beyond your comfort zone. Remember, safety should always come first.
