Water Heater Maintenance Tips for Longevity

"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value."— Albert Einstein

Your water heater works tirelessly behind the scenes, but it's an appliance that's often neglected until something goes wrong. Regular maintenance is key to extending its lifespan, improving its efficiency, and preventing a sudden, cold-shower surprise. With a few simple annual tasks, you can keep your water heater in top condition.

The most important maintenance step is to flush the tank at least once a year. Over time, sediment and mineral scale from the water supply settle at the bottom of the tank. This buildup forces your water heater to work harder to heat the water, reducing its efficiency and increasing your energy bills. This layer of sediment can also cause corrosion and damage the tank. Flushing the tank involves draining a few gallons of water from the drain valve at the bottom to clear out this debris.

Another critical task is to test the temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve. This valve is a crucial safety feature designed to open and release pressure if the temperature or pressure inside the tank gets too high. To test it, simply lift the lever and let it snap back. You should see a burst of water come out of the discharge pipe. If it doesn't, the valve may be faulty and needs to be replaced by a professional plumber. This simple check ensures the safety mechanism is ready to prevent a potential tank explosion.