Water heaters are an essential part of modern life. They provide hot water for showers, washing dishes and clothes, and other household tasks. But when your water heater fails, it can be a major inconvenience—not to mention expensive to repair or replace. Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to extend the life of your water heater and save money in the long run. In this blog post, take a look at how you can keep your water heater running smoothly for years.
Don’t skip regular maintenance.
First, make sure you’re performing regular maintenance on your water heater. This includes flushing the tank to eliminate any sediment or buildup affecting its efficiency, checking the anode rod for corrosion, and inspecting the thermostat and heating elements. You can ask the help of a professional plumber if you need more clarification on any of these steps.
Check your water pressure.
Next, ensure you’re not running your water heater under too much pressure. High water pressure can put an extra strain on the system and lead to it failing prematurely. You can use a water pressure gauge connected to an outdoor faucet to check your pressure.
Insulate the tank.
Insulating your water heater’s tank will keep the hot water warm for longer, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat it up. This increases efficiency and reduces wear and tear on the system. You can buy pre-cut insulation blankets at any home improvement store or online.
Lower the thermostat setting.
Turning down the thermostat on your water heater can help reduce wear and tear, as well as save you money in energy costs. Most manufacturers recommend a setting of 120°F for optimal efficiency. You can also install a timer to turn off the water heater at night or when it’s not in use.
Get an upgrade.
Finally, if your water heater is older than ten years old, it may be time for a new water heater installation. Investing in a new energy-efficient model could save you money over the long run and provide reliable hot water for years. Make sure to do your research and find a model that works best for your home.
By taking these simple steps, you can extend the life of your water heater and save money in the process. So take a little time to care for your water heater—it’ll pay off! Don’t forget to have your water heater inspected regularly by a professional for any potential problems. Don’t wait until your water heater fails—take the steps now to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
