A hot water heater is essential for everyday tasks. Without proper care, it can lose efficiency, leading to higher energy costs, frequent breakdowns, and expensive repairs. Neglecting your heater can lead to problems like sediment buildup, high pressure, and wear on internal parts, all of which reduce efficiency.
If not addressed, these issues can worsen, causing the unit to fail earlier than expected. Skipping maintenance may seem easier, but it results in higher costs over time.
For example, sediment accumulation reduces heating efficiency, and incorrect water temperatures force the system to work harder. Ignoring these problems puts extra strain on the unit, increasing the likelihood of costly repairs or replacement.
To avoid these issues and extend its lifespan, follow these maintenance practices.
Scheduled Maintenance
Performing regular maintenance ensures your hot water heater remains in good condition. At least twice a year, inspect the unit for leaks, check the pressure relief valve, and flush the tank to remove any sediment.
In areas with hard water, sediment builds up quicker, which can lead to clogs and corrosion. Flushing the tank removes these deposits, ensuring the heater operates smoothly.
Maintain Optimal Temperature
Set your water heater’s thermostat at 60°C to optimise energy efficiency and prevent strain on the system. Higher temperatures waste energy and cause excessive wear on the unit, while lower temperatures can lead to bacteria growth.
Keeping the temperature at the ideal level ensures that the heater operates efficiently, extends its life, and saves on energy costs.
Install an Expansion Tank
In homes with closed water systems, thermal expansion can cause excessive pressure in the pipes as water heats. Without an expansion tank, this added pressure stresses the internal components of the heater, accelerating wear.
Installing an expansion tank helps absorb the pressure, reducing strain and helping to extend the unit’s operational life.
Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod
The anode rod inside the tank helps prevent internal rust and corrosion. Over time, the rod deteriorates and must be replaced. Inspect the anode rod every three to five years to avoid internal corrosion that could lead to leaks and reduced heater efficiency.
Replacing the anode rod in time ensures the longevity of the unit.
Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Insulating your hot water tank and pipes reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency. Proper insulation helps maintain the water temperature without overburdening the heater. In colder climates, it also prevents pipes from freezing, which can cause significant damage.
Insulation is a simple step that reduces strain on the heater, improves performance, and cuts energy costs.
Address Minor Issues Promptly
Small issues, such as fluctuating water temperatures, leaks, or strange noises, often indicate underlying problems. These problems are often easy to fix but can escalate if ignored. For example, an undetected leak can lead to corrosion or damage to other components.
Pay attention to your heater’s performance and resolve minor issues as soon as they arise to avoid more significant and expensive repairs.
Schedule Professional Inspections
While performing basic maintenance yourself is important, a licensed technician should inspect your heater annually. A professional can check for issues that aren’t immediately apparent, such as internal corrosion or component wear.
Scheduled professional inspections ensure that the heater runs at optimal efficiency and that potential problems are addressed before they lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Ensure Longevity with Proper Maintenance
Following these practices helps extend the lifespan of your hot water heater. Maintaining the correct temperature, replacing the anode rod, and performing regular maintenance all work together to prevent early repairs or replacement.
Need Expert Assistance?
For professional assistance with your hot water heater, contact Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning. Our team offers expert servicing and repairs to keep your heater performing at its best. Call us for reliable service and advice.