Monday, August 26, 2013

Basics Of Water Heater Maintenance

By Brian Winters


Since a water heater doesn't come cheap, it is important to keep it in tip-top shape to avoid costly repairs in the future. Neglecting regular maintenance can cause the unit to breakdown sooner than expected. When this happens, you may have to take cold showers for a day or two until your heater starts heating enough water for your household.

Always take safety into account by turning off the gas or power supply of the heater before carrying out repairs. Your water heater can be a dangerous device to fix if you don't have a safe environment to work in. Do not let water enter the tank by closing the water supply beforehand.

If your newly-installed gas water heater starts to leak, this is normal due to condensation. Water would eventually stop leaking as soon it starts heating water. When lighting the pilot, make sure the gas supply valve is turned on. Some units have advanced gas valves with LED indicators to know if they are working normally.

Check the relief valve regularly to make sure it is working at all time. This is important since it protects the tank from overheating or blowing up as it releases excessive pressure inside. You can test it by placing a bucket under the relief valve and lifting its lever. Release the handle to stop water from draining. If not, replace it as soon as possible.

The pipe fittings and valves should always be tight enough to prevent water from leaking. Compression fittings are easier to use than soldered copper pipes. If you think your relief valve is leaking frequently, lower the thermostat settings between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also install a thermal expansion tank when necessary.

Protect the heating element gasket by refilling the water tank before turning the power on. Neglecting this step damages the heating element gasket and can cause it to burn out. When this happens, you may not have hot water running in your pipes for a few days. Replace it immediately to continue having access to warm water. If the problem persists, contact a specialist as soon as possible.

It is important to drain and flush your tank regularly to prevent hard water minerals from building up. This will sustain your heater's efficiency and prolongs its lifespan at the same time. You can start by connecting a garden hose to drain valve and running the other end to a floor drain or gutter to avoid scalding burns. Open the relief and drain valve until the tank is empty. Close the drain valve as soon as the sediments have been removed. Do not forget to open a hot water tap inside the house before refilling.

When unsure, do not hesitate to call a specialist for professional help. Attempting to repair a water heater on your own can escalate the problem, leading to a more costly repair in the long run. Ensure proper care and maintenance by letting a specialist deal with your heating system.




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