The Importance of Water Heater Maintenance
Although Phoenix doesn’t get as cold as many parts of the country during the winter, it still gets cold enough to affect water usage in the home. During the winter months, it’s common for the water heater to see more usage. People tend to like long, hot showers when it’s cold out. Plus, homeowners may want to wait longer for the water to heat up when washing their hands or doing dishes. Over time, this usage adds up. But if the water heater hasn’t been maintained in a while, it could spell problems for the home. Luckily, this article will cover what homeowners need to know about water heater maintenance and its benefits.
What Does Water Heater Maintenance Entail?
Water heater maintenance is often skipped because it’s easy to forget about the appliance unless something goes wrong. However, water heater maintenance is important and can be done quickly by a professional. And the benefits certainly outweigh the cost of maintenance. But what does that maintenance entail?
One of the most important aspects of water heater service is flushing the sediment out of the tank. Sediment will build up over time as a byproduct of water heating. And when it builds up enough, it can start to damage the tank and interfere with efficient heating. This is why flushing the sediment is so important.
Professionals will also check to see if the anode rod needs replacing. It helps protect the inside of the tank from corrosion. If it is worn down, it should be replaced. During water heater maintenance, the plumber will also check the thermostat, ensure there are no leaks, and test the temperature pressure relief valve.
How Regular Maintenance Helps
Although a water heater isn’t as complex as a car, it still requires regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity. Without regular maintenance, homeowners won’t be able to get the full life out of the unit. Again, many water heater problems come from excessive sediment buildup. This can cause corrosion, which can lead to leaks. But it can also drastically reduce the system’s efficiency. When there’s too much sediment in the tank, it will take longer for the unit to heat the water, costing homeowners money on their utility bills.
Regular maintenance will also help prevent avoidable issues. When a professional inspects the unit once or twice a year, they can spot minor problems and address them before they become major ones. This way, homeowners can save time and avoid potential headaches due to water heater issues.
How Often to Schedule Water Heater Maintenance
In most places, water heater service only needs to be performed annually. However, the frequency of maintenance also depends on how hard the water in the area is. The harder the water, the quicker sediment will build up in the tank. And the quicker sediment builds up, the more important it is to flush that sediment often.
Unfortunately, Phoenix has hard water. Sediment and hard water minerals in the water can take a toll on the water heaters. This is why some homeowners may need to schedule water heater maintenance twice a year. And since winter sees an increase in hot water usage, it’s always a good idea to have maintenance done before then.
About Water Heaters Only, Inc.
Water Heaters Only, Inc. has been proudly serving Phoenix, AZ, for over 50 years. They have serviced over 1.2 million water heaters in that time and are available for same-day service. Their technicians are friendly, professional, and always arrive on time. Contact them today for water heater maintenance in Phoenix, AZ.
