Maintaining a Water Heater During the Winter

When the temperatures begin to drop, the last thing you want to have to worry about is whether or not you are going to get a hot shower. Don’t wait until your water heater goes out. Ensure you know how to properly maintain the water heater during the winter, so you can hopefully avoid this kind of plumbing emergency in the dead of winter.

Here is the best way of maintaining a water heater during the winter:

Test the TPR Valve

Gas and electric water tanks have a temperature-pressure release valve (TPR). It is located on the side or top of the water tank. If the pressure inside your water tank becomes too high, then this valve will open to release that pressure and prevent any kind of explosion from happening.

So, you want to make sure that this valve is working properly at all times. To test it, lift the trip lever on the valve and then release it again. There should be some sign of water or a faint hissing sound coming through the TPR valve when doing this. If water continues to flow after you have released the valve, then it is time to replace it.

The Anode Rod

The anode rod is what captures the corrosive components in your water so that it doesn’t damage the water tank’s lining. If the water tank is more than three years old, the anode rod should be inspected regularly. Look for surface corrosion, calcium covering, pitting, and other signs of damage.

Drain the Water Tank

It is also recommended that you drain the water tank to clean out the sediment at least twice per year. When the sediment builds up in the tank, the water heater begins to run less efficiently, resulting in much higher utility bills. So, flush the tank to extend the lifespan of your water heater and improve its overall performance.

Insulate the Tank

If you have a newer water heater, then it probably already came pre-insulated. However, if your tank is older, you might want to consider using a fiberglass jacket to improve its performance. If you have a gas or oil heater, do not cover the top.

When the tank is insulated properly, it helps keep the pipes warmer for longer, resulting in lower energy costs and a shorter wait to enjoy your hot shower.

Even with maintenance, water heaters age and can still break down, resulting in a plumbing emergency. If this happens, call the professionals at Plumbing Emergency Rescue to come in and help.