The water heater is one of the most important pieces of equipment that anyone has at their home. Whether it functions through gas or electric, we use one everyday for the hot water in our showers. In general, water heaters are durable. They will not expire for a long time given the proper maintenance. You can save tons of money in repair costs if the water heater was properly installed and maintained. Fortunately, maintaining a water heater can be achieved through a four step process each year.

1. Dial Down the Temperature

This is a very simple step. Simply go to your water heater, check the temperature dial, and make sure it is set in between 115 to 120 degrees F (or 46 degrees to 49 degrees C). Lowering the setting will prevent the tank from overheating, which reduces energy bills drastically.

2. Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

This step is even simpler than the first. Since the temperature and the pressure relief valve are both essential to the operation of the water heater, it is important to test these settings on a routine basis. First, locate the valve. It resembles the lever where the water is connected to the water heater. Then, lift the lever partway and let it snap back down again. There should be a gurgling sound as water is released back into the drain tube. If the valve didn’t work, then the water heater needs to be replaced.

3. Do a Mini Flush

In the last step, a mini flush will remove away any sediments from the bottom of the tank, thus preventing rust and corrosion, as well as improving the general efficiency. Ideally, a full flush will be performed, but in which case the heater has to be turned off beforehand and the tank has to be full. Thus, a mini flush is a time optimal alternative that takes up only a fraction of the time.

To do a mini flush, simply put a bucket below the drain valve, near the bottom of the tank. Turn the valve counter clockwise, and then release a few gallons of water into the bucket. The valve may have a handle or a flat head screwdriver depending on the model.

4. Cleaning the Passage Ways

Before you start draining the electric heater, ensure that the power is turned off completely. This is more of a safety procedure than anything. If there are any frayed connections, it is always best to consult with an electrician. Gas heaters follow a similar set of procedures, as in turning off the gas and pilot light before the check-up. Make sure you understand these instructions before carrying them out. Also, clear any debris that may be in the way of the air passage, and also ensure everything is secure. You should obviously make sure there are no flammable materials near your gas water heater.

By following these procedures once a year, your water heater will be maintained at an acceptable level. In that case, you are well on your way in preserving one of the most valuable appliances in your household, while saving a lot of money in the long run.

Author Bio: Many DIY’ers go to our home renovations blog as well as our home renovation blog to look up helpful information.

Category: Home Management
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