10 Ways to Prolong the Life of a Tank Water Heater
While tankless water heaters are rapidly growing in popularity, most American households still use a traditional tank water heater. If you have one of these water heaters that’s properly serviced and maintained, according to the UPC Standard, you could get 8 to 10 years of service out of it.
As Sacramento’s leading plumbing contractor, we understand the importance of maintaining your traditional tank water heater to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
So, today we want to share 10 valuable tips on how you can take care of your water heater and extend its life, saving you both time and money in the long run.
- Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections by a professional plumber to check for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or other potential issues. Regular maintenance will help identify problems early and prevent costly repairs later on.
- Monitor Temperature Settings: Avoid excessively high-temperature settings as they can accelerate wear and tear on the water heater. A recommended temperature is around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) to balance comfort and efficiency.
By the way, when you leave home for an extended period, consider reducing the temperature setting to a vacation level to save on energy costs while you’re away.
- Flush the Tank Annually: Sediment buildup can occur over time, causing your water heater to work harder and become less efficient. Having the tank flushed annually will remove this sediment and improve the heater’s performance.
- Check Pressure Relief Valve: The pressure relief valve is a crucial safety component that releases excess pressure from the tank. Regularly check this valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly and have it replaced if necessary. If you’re not familiar with this valve, check your owner’s manual for information.
- Insulate Hot Water Pipes: Insulating the hot water pipes can reduce heat loss during distribution, allowing you to get hot water faster while minimizing energy waste.
- Install a Water Softener: If your area has hard water, consider installing a water softener to prevent mineral buildup inside the tank which can lead to reduced efficiency and a shorter lifespan.
- Keep the Area Clear: Ensure the space around the water heater is free from clutter and debris. This helps with proper ventilation and easy access for maintenance.
- Address Leaks Promptly: If you notice any leaks around your water heater, don’t ignore them. Even small leaks can lead to significant damage over time, so have them repaired as soon as possible.
- Avoid DIY Repairs: While it’s tempting to tackle plumbing issues on your own, complex water heater problems are best left to professionals. DIY repairs can sometimes make the problem worse and void the warranty.
- Know the Age of Your Water Heater: As we said, most traditional tank water heaters, both gas and electric water heaters, have a life expectancy of about 8 to 10 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this age, it might be time to consider a replacement to avoid unexpected breakdowns and cold showers!
Water Heater Problems? Professional Assistance is Only a Phone Call Away
If you need professional assistance with your traditional tank water heater or a tankless system in Sacramento, CA, our team of skilled plumbers is here to help. At Rapid First Plumbing, we’ve installed and serviced thousands of electric and gas water heaters in the greater Sacramento area, and we offer top-notch water heater inspections, maintenance, repairs, and replacements.
And when you call Rapid First for water heater assistance or other plumbing services, your call will always be answered by a live person and never by an automated service!
Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your water heater continues to provide a reliable supply of hot water for years to come!
