Every household in its life span has more or less dealt with plumbing disaster and water emergencies due common plumbing problems that persists in residential and commercial establishments alike. Reason for plumbing emergencies are many, right from a simple pipe leakage, to water drips and sewer line clogging to a pipe burst or irregular functioning of appliances.
Water heater is one such appliance that if not maintained and looked after can turn your home into a water pool. The average working life of a water heater is somewhere between 12-13 years. As you must be aware that it is a relatively low-maintenance appliance, but there are some precautions, you can take to optimize its heating efficiency, lower your energy bill, and protract its lifespan and get the most out of your water heater.
Keep a watch on your Thermostat and Burner
You can reduce the strain on your water heater and lower your utility bills, by simply turning down the temperature on thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit that is hot enough for all of your needs. If you are using a gas unit, then you need to take care to clean off the burner. Keep in mind that the propane should burn blue in color under ideal conditions, if you see an orange flame, make sure you get it inspected by a professional plumber as early as possible. .
Check the Sacrificial Anode Rod
The storage water heaters are equipped with a sacrificial anode rod located inside the tank to prevent rust formation. This rod is generally made out of magnesium or aluminum, and is designed to corrode in place of pipes and lining. Maintenance tip here would be check this rod every three to five years.
Remove Sediment for Perfect Heating
Remember to flush the water heater tank at least once, if not twice a year, to remove any sediment and maintain optimal heating efficiency. To perform this operation you need to shut off the water supply, while hooking the garden hose to the drain valve, and letting the water run out from the tank, be careful, as the water will be hot. When it is completely drained, turn on the water supply and let it run until it’s clear.
Examine the Pressure Relief Valve
When too much pressure builds up inside the water heater, the pressure relief valve acts as an important safety device that prevents too much pressure to build up. You can examine this device by manually lifting the level and listening for drainage sounds, then letting it adjust back into place. If there are problems hearing the signs of drainage, have it professionally inspected from A-General Plumbing services immediately.
At A-General Plumbing and Sewer Services, we offer a wide coverage area to residents and business establishments in Ocean County, Monmouth County, Burlington County and Atlantic County, NJ. Our large network of in-house professionals are available on call 24/7, to meet your plumbing needs. Choose our office nearest to your home or office and call A-General first on 732-919-7000.
