How To Keep Water Heaters in Good Condition

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Flushing a water heater

The last thing you want while taking a shower is cold water gushing out of the showerhead. Your first inclination may be to buy a new heater. There are easy instructions, however, that can help prolong the life of your heater in Monticello, LA, for many years.

Routine Maintenance on Your Water Heater

Conducting routine maintenance on your unit will reduce the risk of failure. If your heater malfunctions and you experience water damage, call a water restoration expert right away.

Test the Temperature-Pressure Release Valve - This valve regulates the pressure and temperature in the tank. To test it, put a pail below the discharge pipe. If water isn't released when you lift the lever, the valve must be replaced.
Check Electrical Connections - Periodically inspect the connections to ensure the unit is working properly.
Clean Sediment Within the Tank - As sediment builds up inside the tank, it can block the pipeline. If left unattended, it can also create cracks in the tank. Flushing the tank will reduce these risks.

Steps on Flushing a Water Heater
Performing a water heater flush may sound complicated, but it is really quite simple if you follow these steps.

Make sure the heater is turned off, then locate the drain valve and attach a garden hose to it.
Open the drain valve to release the water. While the water is flowing, turn on the hot water faucet in the kitchen or bathroom.
After several minutes, close the water supply valve and allow the water to continue draining until it stops
Once completely drained, make sure all of the valves are closed. At this point, turn the water supply on.
Check the faucet and wait until the water begins flowing smoothly again. This means that the water heater tank is full.
Turn the power and heating element back on.

Perform some routine maintenance on your heater to keep it running smoothly for years.