Sunday, August 25, 2013

Simple Hot Water Heater Maintenance Plan

By Brian Winters


Every homeowner's honey do list should always have water heater maintenance included on it. Keeping your unit in good condition shouldn't be so difficult if you inspect it every six months. Do not hesitate to hire a specialist if you think you cannot handle maintaining it on your own.

Before proceeding, make sure the gas or power source of your unit is turned off to avoid fatal accidents. It helps informing everyone in your household about the scheduled maintenance to stop them from using the heater during the repair process. Turning off the water supply valve stops water from entering the tank while the maintenance is ongoing.

If you have an electric-powered unit, check the electrical wire connections if they are loosely attached. For gas-fired units, make sure the gas connection is not leaking since this can be very dangerous to you and your family. You can test it by applying a soap solution to the gas fittings and connections. Hire a specialist immediately if bubbles appear instantly.

Make sure the flu pipe is always aligned with the unit's exhaust port. To keep the flu hat in place, check the roof vent to see if all the connections in between are secured in place.

To prevent an excessive sediment buildup, check the anode rod from time to time to see if it needs a replacement. This sacrificial rod is responsible for protecting the internal tank from corroding as it absorbs all the charged water molecules inside the tank. Replace it as soon as it begins to deteriorate.

Sediments can be removed by draining and flushing the tank regularly. Doing this sustains the efficiency of your heater, without compromising the temperature and water volume that can be stored inside. Flush the remaining hard water minerals after draining until the water runs clear. Avoid scalding burns by turning off the unit the night before draining. Refill the tank before opening the switch.

If you have corroded dip tube, have it replaced immediately. Not taking immediate action can cause cold water to hit the hot water pipes without being heated properly.

For more hot water maintenance tips, ask help from a specialist to avoid worsening the situation. Having insufficient knowledge in fixing a water heater can lead to a more costly repair in the long run. Leave your unit in the hands of a professional for guaranteed results.




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