Water heaters are an essential element of every plumbing system. It is responsible for providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, doing laundry, and many other tasks. However, homeowners tend to overlook the importance of regular water heater maintenance. Not maintaining a water heater can lead to decreased efficiency, increased energy bills, and even complete failure of the system. In this article, we will discuss the importance of regular water heater maintenance.
Efficiency and Energy Savings
When a water heater is not well maintained, it loses its efficiency. The buildup of minerals and sediments can lead to decreased efficiency. When the efficiency of the system is reduced, it means more energy is required to heat the water which will reflect on the energy bill. It’s estimated that homeowners can save up to 20% on their energy bills when they regularly maintain their water heater. This is because a maintained water heater runs more efficiently, and it uses less energy to heat the water.
Increased Lifespan of the System
Water heaters don’t last forever, however, with proper maintenance, homeowners can extend the life of their water heater. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early on, preventing the need for replacement. A well-maintained water heater can last for 10-12 years or more if properly taken care of.
Prevents Corrosion and Leaks
Corrosion is a common issue with water heaters that are not well maintained. When sediments and minerals accumulate at the bottom of the water heater tank, it creates an environment where rust can form causing corrosion in the tank. This can lead to the destruction of the tank and leaks. Regular maintenance involves flushing out the tank to remove any buildup of sediments and minerals preventing corrosion and leaks.
Maintains Water Quality
Over time, sediments and minerals accumulate in the water heater tank which can also affect the quality of the water in the home. The buildup of sediments and minerals can lead to dirty water, strange odors, and even mold growth. Flushing out the tank during regular maintenance helps to improve the quality of the water being supplied to the home.
Ensures Safe Operation
A malfunctioning water heater can be dangerous, especially if it runs on gas. Regular maintenance ensures that all the safety features on the system are working correctly, thus creating a safe operating environment. A technician can identify issues such as gas leaks, faulty parts, and other potential safety hazards during routine maintenance.
Schedule Regular Maintenance with Plumbing Professionals
Regular maintenance of a water heater is essential to its efficient and safe operation. It’s important for homeowners to understand how to properly care for their water heater and know when to call a plumbing professional to perform routine maintenance. A plumbing professional can help identify potential issues during maintenance preventing the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future. Regular maintenance will ensure that the efficiency and lifespan of the water heater are maximized while also providing safe, high-quality, and clean water for the home.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance of a water heater ensures that it remains efficient, prolongs the life of the system, prevents corrosion, maintains water quality, and ensures safe operation. Homeowners should aim to schedule maintenance twice a year. A plumbing professional can help identify potential issues during maintenance preventing the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future. Regular maintenance will ensure that the efficiency and lifespan of the water heater are maximized while also providing safe, high-quality, and clean water for the home. Therefore, homeowners should not overlook the importance of regular water heater maintenance.