5 Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Home Water Heater
The hot water heater is one of the most unsung heroes in your residence. When it is working just fine, there is very little fanfare, as compared to the consternation that takes place when it breaks. We depend on our hot water heaters for showering, washing dishes and keeping clothes clean. So how can we get the most out of our home water heaters? Read on to learn more about the five most useful tips.
1. Flush The Tank Each Year
If the tank is not kept clean, then your hot water will not run properly. When tanks are not cleaned on a regular basis, sediment and minerals will gather at the bottom and adversely affect the heater’s performance. Corrosion is a common issue and it causes your heater to work twice as hard to perform the same tasks as before. For the best results, be sure to flush the tank and drain it annually.
You’ll need to turn off the gas/electric supply (as well as the water feed) to the tank, connect a garden hose to the tank’s drain valve to remove the water. After the tank has been emptied, use the water feedback to wash out the sediment before reconnecting.
2. Buy A Water Softener
Softer water helps to keep limescale deposits from building up inside of the water heater tank. It also helps to keep our washers and coffee makers at peak functionality. You’ll also save up to 30 percent on your energy bills, since the water heater runs much more efficiently when the water has been properly softened.
3. Expansion Tank Installation
When there are water pressure fluctuations, an expansion tank becomes very crucial. Plumbing system lines and hot water heaters are damaged by these fluctuations, so it is best if you choose to install an expansion tank before these issues have a chance to take place. The expansion tank also serves to absorb any excess water volume that can damage your fixtures and pipes.
4. Anode Rod Replacement
Hot water takes on an acidic quality and when your anode rod is in poor condition, the acid is no longer attracted to a specific part of your water heater tank. This leads to excessive corrosion and an unclean water heater tank, so if your anode rod is not in the proper condition, you will need to replace it immediately.
5. Keep The Temperature Low
Many homeowners are blissfully unaware of the fact that their hot water heater runs on far too high of a temperature. The temperature of the water should not ever exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit. When you keep the temperature in this range, you are able to save big money on your monthly utility bills and avoid being scalded by water that is far too hot to bathe or wash dishes with.
