Most homeowners don’t like to think about water heaters breaking down, but they do. In fact, the average lifespan of a water heater is around 10-12 years, and you want to stay on top of its maintenance to ensure it lasts as long as possible. While there are some risks you can’t avoid, like corrosion and broken pipes, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent issues with your water heater before they happen.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
It's important to stay on top of your water heater maintenance. A water heater that isn't maintained can easily break down, which is inconvenient and expensive. It is recommended that you perform maintenance at least once a year to stay within your warranty. When our Elite plumbers come out to inspect your system, you can count on us to do a thorough evaluation. This will include inspecting the pilot light, checking for leaks or sediment buildup, and ensuring there are no signs of corrosion from hard water or mineral deposits. If you are experiencing any issues with your system, such as not enough hot water or higher than usual bills, it is best to let the plumber know so they can inspect those areas of your water heater and correct any issues.
The Consequences of Neglecting Your Water Heater
If you're neglecting your water heater maintenance, you could be causing severe damage to your home. When you fail to book your service visits, you could decrease the lifespan of your system and decrease your home's efficiency. This could leave you with higher-than-average bills and the need to replace your system much earlier than you would like. To avoid these consequences, stay on top of your water heater by proactively booking your maintenance visits and ensuring you are not experiencing any premature leaks around your system or loss of hot water.
Things to Look Out For!
It's important to periodically check your water heater to ensure it's running smoothly. The following are a few quick tips that will help you stay on top of your water heater and avoid potential issues before they happen:
- Check the temperature gauge monthly; this will let you know if the water is hot enough or too hot.
- Keep an eye out for any leaks, drips, or unusual sounds coming from your tank or pipes.
- Note if you lose hot water within 5 minutes of it heating up.
Do you still have questions about water heater maintenance? Let our Elite team help. We are here for all your plumbing needs and will ensure you have the comfort you need from your system.
